A Spoonful of Magic at Mayflower Theatre
Step in Time not to miss out, 31 August – 20 September!
Growing up, I watched Julie Andrews bring Mary Poppins to life at my grandparents’ house more times than I can count. Now, as I step into the theatre with my niece’s hand in mine, I can’t help but get lost in the beauty of the moment – being able to introduce a new generation of our family not only to the practically perfect Mary Poppins, but also to the magic that a night at the theatre holds.
As we take our seats and become mesmerised by the smoke rising from the chimneys on stage, I let the excited energy of the crowd wash over me and watch my niece stare in awe at the wonder of the majestic Mayflower Theatre.
The story will be fondly known by many: Mary Poppins tells the tale of the Banks family on Cherry Tree Lane, whose household is turned upside down when a mysterious and magical nanny arrives at their door. With her clever wit, a bottomless carpet bag, and a touch of enchantment, Mary Poppins brings joy, wonder and important life lessons to Jane and Michael Banks. Alongside her cheerful friend Bert, she whisks the children into unforgettable adventures – from dancing with chimney sweeps to stepping into fantastical wonderlands – teaching them, and their parents, that sometimes a little imagination and kindness can change everything.
I can’t imagine there are many people who aren’t familiar with the much-loved Disney classic, but seeing it come to life on stage is like seeing it again for the first time. It is wonderfully remastered – from its dazzling choreography to the magical effects that left the whole audience wide-eyed – honouring the legacy of Mary Poppins, but with new twists and inventive elements added to keep it fresh and surprising.
Stefanie Jones exudes the characteristics that make her the country’s most-loved nanny. Seemingly born for the role of Mary Poppins, she takes to the stage with poise and grace, bewitching us with her dulcet tones and appearing to glide across the stage even through the most complex choreography. I am transported back to being a child as I stare, mesmerised, watching Mary Poppins take flight – all the emotion and the wonder come flooding back. Seeing the joy on my niece’s face, there is no doubt about the timeless nature of this tale.
Jack Chambers’ charisma shines through as he wins our hearts as the reliable and loveable Bert. A master of his craft with a captivating stage presence, he wows the audience with his fluid and precise moves as he appears to effortlessly command the choreography.
Lucie-Mae Sumner is wonderful as the good-natured Winifred Banks, the wife and mother trying to do the best for her family while finding her voice. Her singing is simply stunning; she creates a warm and loving character that you find yourself rooting for. She acts alongside her on-stage husband George Banks, played by Michael D. Xavier, who undergoes a transformation before our eyes. Starting off stiff and somewhat cold, he is forced to re-evaluate what is important in life and becomes a much kinder and more caring father. Michael’s comic timing gives us some real laugh-out-loud moments, adding a welcome light-heartedness to the character.
Praise must also go to Connie Jones and Oli Manning, who play Jane and Michael Banks. Both are talented young actors who deliver energetic performances throughout the show. At the heart of the story, they are fully immersed in every song and dance number – names to look out for in the future.
There is something about the moment the Bird Woman sings Feed the Birds that brings a tear to my eye every time I hear it, so I find myself holding my breath as the opening notes play and Patti Boulaye pours her heart into the song. True to form, she conjures the same emotions as her beautiful tones wash over me, and I feel a tear run down my cheek.
The show as a whole is an unforgettable experience; you feel fully engaged in every scene. But I have to say the true stand-out moments for me – where my heart soared and bubbled with excitement – were Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and Step in Time. The choreography was mind-blowing: watching the cast in perfect unison as they tackled the complex, expressive moves. The stage felt alive, taking us away from reality and into a fairytale world, making you believe that anything could happen if you let it.
As the curtain fell, after a resounding standing ovation, the feeling of magic and possibility lingered in the air. I looked over and knew that this show has stood the test of time and embedded itself in the heart of my niece too.
Playing at the Mayflower Theatre until 20th September – don’t miss your opportunity to experience Mary Poppins for yourself. Listen, listen… she’s calling to you!
Words by Vicky Anscombe
Photos credit Danny Kaan
