Joe Dziemianowicz — Theater Critic

What makes this impeccably acted and designed production so extraordinary is Bartlett Sher's meticulous and dramatic direction. The physical production is created on a grand scale. The stage of the Vivian Beaumont boasts not only a breathtaking Pacific panorama, but at times a huge spinning flatbed truck, a flashy war-room, even a World War II fighter plane. Against that Cinemascopic grandeur, performances are on a human scale. The show is filled with fantastic and familiar songs that are presented here like musical conversation, making them sound fresh and exciting. Characters are played with such intimacy you practically hear hearts flutter as people fall in love.

Despite its shortcomings, director Thomas Kail's production, which has changed slightly from last year's Off-Broadway run, has its pleasures. What it lacks in story and believability it makes up for in a vibrant rap- and salsa-flavored score, spirited dances and great-looking design. And the cast is sweeter than dollops of dulce de leche.

Nobody does magical entertainment like Disney - except Cameron Mackintosh. The two have teamed up for the musical 'Mary Poppins,' which opened last night on Broadway and won't be going anywhere for a long time. It is a roof-raising, toe-tapping, high-flying extravaganza.