BWW Reviews: MARY POPPINS PLAYS Cincinnati

Everyone's favorite nanny Mary Poppins is in town for a limited three week engagement. Produced by Cameron Mackintosh and Disney Theatrical Productions and part of the Broadway Across America series, Mary Poppins is in Cincinnati now through April 25th and it's sure to be a fun-filled family theater event.

In case you aren't familiar with the story, Jane and Michael Banks are two naughty children of a well-to-do banker and a mother working to find her place as a socialite. Jane and Michael have run off many a nanny and together they write an advertisement for the "perfect" nanny, perfect to them anyways. Mary Poppins arrives with a bit of flair and magic and takes the job. Through her, the family strengthens their bond and learn what is really important in life.

Caroline Sheen proves to be "practically perfect in every way" in her portrayal of Mary Poppins. She brings great poise to the role and has a beautiful voice. Gavin Lee brings Bert to life having originated the role in London's West End and appearing on Broadway. Laird Mackintosh and Blythe Wilson are great as Mr. and Mrs. Banks. Kelsey Fowler and Carter Thomas as Jane and Michael (on the night I attended) do a good job for being as young as they are and minimal experience. I was particularly impressed with Fowler's voice and young Thomas is able to deliver the one-liners well.

Rounding out the principal cast are Emily Harvey, Rachel Izen, Dennis Moench, Mike O'Carroll, Mary VanArsdel and Ellen Harvey.

Combining source materials from both P.L. Travers' collective stories and Disney's 1964 classic film, Mary Poppins transfers to the stage better than anticipated, but that is mostly due to the impressive sets. What came as a surprise to me is that new songs have been added to the theatrical production. While the new songs do not come close to the original songs in terms of long-term sustainability, they provide some added enjoyment and keep those of us familiar with the movie something new and different to look towards. "Step In Time" turns into the most memorable production number for me, but children will probably enjoy the uptempo and catchy "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" more.

Many will notice several variations from the original movie, such as the removal of the tea party at Uncle Albert's house, but instead we get Bert taking a walk up the side of the proscenium and performing an amazing upside-down tap dance.

Another favorite aspect of the show is the impressive sets. The Banks' house is modeled to have a dollhouse as well as a children's pop up book sort of feel. The exterior house set actually opens up to reveal the inside. Beautiful backdrops provided scenery for the park.

Overall, this is a fun show for children and adults may enjoy some of the memorable scenes from the classic movie. Tickets may be purchased at the Broadway Across America Box Office, The Aronoff Center Ticket Office, Ticketmaster outlets, and online at BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com. To charge tickets by phone, call 1-800-982-2787. To charge tickets by phone, call 1-800-982-2787. Ticket prices range from $20.00 to $83.00.

 

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