MK Theatre Review: Mary Poppins
Summary
Rating: ★★★★★
Running Dates: Weds 29th Oct - Sat 22nd Nov
Where to see it: Milton Keynes Theatre
Duration: 2 hr 40 (incl. interval)
Photography by Danny Kaan
Review
What a show. Just when I thought, “they don’t make musicals like they used to,” along comes Mary Poppins; a production that proves that they absolutely still can, and when they do, it’s in a different league entirely.
Currently flying high at Milton Keynes Theatre until 22nd November, Cameron Mackintosh and Disney’s stage adaptation of the 1964 classic delivers a dazzling dose of nostalgia wrapped in pure theatrical magic. From the moment the curtain rises on Cherry Tree Lane, it’s clear this isn’t a simple stage retelling, it’s a meticulously reimagined masterpiece.
Gone are the clunky set changes which slowed the rhythm of the show. The sets were highly creative, bringing the magic to life, but were changed seemlessly in seconds which kept the whole thing flowing.
Photo by Danny Kaan
It’s fascinating to see how the original story has been adapted for the stage. There are subtle shifts in the narrative and a handful of new songs that sit comfortably alongside the Sherman Brothers’ timeless hits. It was hard to resist singing along to A Spoonful of Sugar, Feed the Birds (Tuppence a Bag), Step in Time, Chim Chim Cher-ee and, naturally, Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. I’ve been humming them ever since.
My personal favourites were the colourful dance scenes when visiting Mrs Curry, and the Chimney sweeps tap dancing scene which ended with Burt tap dancing on the ceiling.
The performances are every bit as polished as you’d expect from a stage adaptation that’s received over 50 international awards, including two Olivier Awards and one Tony Award.
Stefanie Jones shines as Mary Poppins, her voice effortlessly gliding from sweetness to steel, while Jack Chambers brings endless charm and charisma as Bert. The chemistry between them anchors the show with warmth and wit. The ensemble, too, is spectacular with the choreography and precision a testament to the co-direction of Richard Eyre and Matthew Bourne, two masters at the peak of their powers.
In a world where musicals sometimes rely too heavily on nostalgia, this one reminds you why we fell in love with the art form in the first place. It’s bold, beautiful and brimming with heart.
A show not to miss. Spit spot.