The focal point of this paper is to present a 500 word review of ‘Mary Poppins’ which is at this point running its shows at the Prince Edward Theatre in London. This recent version of the show started only recently only a year ago and already is in a march of captivating audience with a favourable box office result.
The show is based on the script by Julian Fellowes and is a musical well directed by Richard Eyre. The original music was composed by Richard M. Sherman and the lyrics were written by Robert B. Sherman. In the latest version new songs have been added with additional music scores by George Stiles. The additional songs are written by Anthony Drewe.
Being a musical this show is composed of many dance sequences that are nicely choreographed by Mathew Bourne, who is also the co-director of the play and is well supported by co-choreographer Stephen Mear. The designing is ably done by Bob Crowley. The lighting part is skilfully handled by Howard Harrison whereas the sound has been looked over by Andrew Bruce. (Brochure-Mary Poppins; 2006)
This remake of the 1934 play, based on the stories written by PL Travers on the Walt Disney film, is performed is beautifully and extremely professionally executed by the protagonist Lisa O’Hare and set in the ambiance of a lavish background to the point of dazzling the audience with spectacles. Speaking of background and set it is only obvious to refer about the doll’s house which could be enumerated as truly exceptional and memorable part of the show the supported well with the strong script that is enjoyable for a full family amusement.
One very important aspect of the play is the execution of music backed by admirable choreography that could be termed as being at par with the lasting memories of Disney’s act. Songs like Chim Chim Cher-ee and Supercalifragilsticexpialidocious are basically evergreen in nature and are performed with much justice in this version of the play with dances that are enough to bring out the child within each of us. There are few moments that are particularly could be termed as breathtaking experience.
One such scene is the act when Mary Poppins flies over the audience and almost gave the audience a feel of a magic land. Another such noted scene that is almost a show stopping act is the part when Bert is seen walking in an upside down manner and that too above the parameters of the stage with his usual sequences of dance numbers.
However it should also be mentioned that the shoe presents a night of technically perfect vibe but not so much of emotional pleasure. Somehow or the other this play, so lavish and spectacular in nature and utterly professional in execution, lacked that extra bit of touch that makes a simple story outstanding and simple operation exceptional. This play has everything possible on stage but lacked that extra feel to make it a magical experience. Apart from this part the show could be termed as a must see event.
Reference:
Brochure-Mary Poppins; 2006