BWW Reviews: MARY POPPINS - Actually Perfect
By: Tim Carney
A rousing standing ovation met the cast of Mary Poppins at the conclusion of their opening night in Perth on Saturday night. And They had deserve it. The show is filled with magic and joy but most importantly it comes with heart. This quality is not achievable without quality performances. British actress Lisa O'Hare takes over the role as Mary Poppins and delivers a performance of someone who has clearly made the character hers over a long period of time. She is fun, frivolous, and overwhelmingly loveable. O'Hares unassuming soprano voice is exquisite.
Another to have made a character their own over a period of time is Matt Lee as Bert. This cheeky chimney sweep captures the audience from the opening of the show and doesnt for one second let it go. Step in Time and Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious are numbers in which Lee soars. He leaves a longing impression. Simon Burke and Pippa Grandison as George and Winifred Banks land every real moment highlighting that the show is more than a bag of tricks and in doing so ensure that the true meaning of Mary Poppins hits home. Special mention also has to go to Rose Shannon Duhigg and the unstoppable Blake Hurford as Jane and Michael Banks, surely two of the most talented children in the country. The ensemble in this Production of Mary Poppins is flawless and should be commended for their energy and commitment throughout the evening.Mary Poppins is a musical that you just can't go to and not enjoy yourself. It is Disney at its very best. With 9.6 million people worldwide having already seen it, it has become a major blockbuster that you would regret not seeing in your lifetime. If you are anywhere near Perth before June it has to be the number one must do on your list.Reader Reviews
