Mary Poppins the musical is so full of heart, magic and wonder that you can’t help but tap your toes and bop along in your seat to the unforgettable songs we’ve all come to love.
The show started its Aussie run in Sydney earlier this year, but currently it has taken up home in Brisbane until 15 January, before moving on to Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth throughout 2023.
In fact, if you’re still looking for a last-minute Christmas gift that will spread some serious joy, might we recommend tickets to Mary? It’s a truly memorable experience and one of the best musicals we’ve seen!
A large part of this is due to the dazzling duo of Mary Poppins, played by Stefanie Jones, and Bert the chimney-sweep, played by everyone’s favourite So You Think You Can Dance Australia alumnus Jack Chambers.
With both hailing from Brisbane, it has been a theatrical homecoming for the pair, who first performed together as children in The Sound of Music in their home city.
Based on the highly imaginative stories by PL Travers (who was also born in Queensland) and the original film, the stage adaptation charms and delights with breathtaking special effects, sumptuous set design and incredible choreography.
From the moment Mary’s feet touch down on Cherry Tree Lane, you can tell you’re in for a ride!
Jones says, “Growing up in Brisbane, I dreamt of playing a role like Mary Poppins”.
If you’re not already familiar with this heart-warming story, it centres around the Banks family.
After waving goodbye to yet another nanny, Mary unexpectedly arrives at their doorstep to take on the role and, along the way, shares some valuable lessons about life, love and family.
Prepare yourself to be swept up in numbers like Chim Chim Cher-ee, Practically Perfect, Jolly Holiday, A Spoonful of Sugar, Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, Let’s Go Fly a Kite, and the masterful Step in Time.
Jones and Chambers are extraordinary, hitting all the right notes.
Jones shines as the enigmatic nanny with a sparkle in her eye. Her voice is stunningly beautiful and her presence unforgettable.
Multi-talented Chambers delights audiences as well, singing and dancing across the stage – and even upside-down during Step in Time – one of the musical’s highlights… of which there are plenty!
They’re joined by stellar performances from Tom Wren (George Banks), Lucy Maunder (Winifred Banks), the Banks children (played by eight impressive young actors), Hannah Waterman (Mrs Brill) and much-loved Patti Newton AM (who plays Bird Woman for the Brisbane shows, in place of Nancye Hayes).
The musical is superb in every way – you might even call it Practically Perfect!
Just don’t let anyone spoil the special effects surprises for you. They’re utterly brilliant!
Spit spot (as Mary would say)! Book your tickets today.
Mary Poppins is produced in Australia by Cameron Mackintosh, The Walt Disney Company Australia and New Zealand, and Michael Cassel Group – who kindly provided preview tickets.
Top photo by Lisa Maree Jones, all others by Daniel Boud.