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Mary Poppins
A musical based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney Film
Original music and lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman
Book by Julian Fellowes
New songs and additional music and lyrics by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe
Co-created by Cameron Mackintosh
Performed December 2015
(December 27-30, 2015)
at the Ron Maslin Playhouse
(6 performances: a children's play)
Directed by Sonia Francis
CAST
PRODUCTION CREW
DIRECTOR’S NOTE
Having the opportunity to live with Mary Poppins intimately for over a year, I feel a relationship with the story that I am keen to share. It is a beautiful magical story about a family that has lost a connection with each other: children who want nothing more than a relationship with their parents and a couple who has to remember to look for and nurture the person with whom they fell in love.
Finding the magic and the beauty in the world around you is the key. The familiarity of the characters along with the songs and music in Mary Poppins, give us a sense that this musical must be a ‘classic’. Mary Poppins the musical stage show, was in fact first presented in 2004. While based on the much-loved character of Mary Poppins, it is not a direct adaptation of the Disney film but rather a fusion of the stories by P.L. Travers, and the 1964 Disney movie with original updated elements. Much of the music comes from the Walt Disney movie, with some important additions. There is a return to the darker side of childhood, that is more in keeping with the original stories. Playing the Game and the character Miss Andrew are two such elements. Mrs. Corry and her ‘Talking Shop’ are more light hearted additions to the musical.
“Anything can happen if you let it”. As Director of this wonderful, magical and large production, the many words of wisdom from Mary Poppins have been a constant source of support and guidance to me. I have been continually struck by the poignancy and relevance of the many phrases and sayings that are scattered throughout this story. Thank you to cast and crew for loving me and supporting me in this journey. So, in the words of Mary Poppins...
~ With every job when it’s complete, there is a sense of bittersweet, that moment when you know the task is done. Though in your heart you’d like to stay to help things on their way, you’ve always known, they must do it alone..
~ We won’t forget you, Mary Poppins. We’ll never forget...
