Mary Poppins Opens

Mary Poppins opened in Melbourne last night as the 6th production globally. The Musicals Insider was there to cover all the action.

As to be expected, it opened with much aplomb, with spectacular effects and performances from all cast members. Indeed the cast could not have been better. Particular standouts were Kurtis Papadinis and Hayley Edwards, given the honour of playing Jane and Michael Banks on opening night. The extensive search for a Practically Perfect Mary Poppins seems well worth the effort, with Verity Hunt-Ballad deliciously impish, yet authorative.
It is great to see Phillip Quast back on the Australian Stage. He and Marina Prior as Mr and Mrs Banks work very well with each other, while Sally-Anne Upton has perfect comedic timing with the character of Mrs Brill.
Matt Lee is better than expected as Bert, but loses the vital Cockney accent from time to time. With time however this can only improve.
From a technical perspective, at times the volume seemed to be far too quiet. Big numbers were adversely affected by quieter sounds, diminishing what should be big-hitting, high-impacting moments.

But all minor problems are engulfed by the majestic and creative sets, with a showstopper in practically every scene. Special shout-outs go to songs Practically Perfect, the co-ordination required to perform Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, the entire cast performing Step In Time and the magical effects involved in Spoonful of Sugar.
The only scene proving a little odd involves a giant lit up Parrot Umbrella... We're still not too sure about that one.



The Red Carpet included a who's who of the Theatre and Entertainment Industries, with guests including David Campbell, James Hird, Eddie McGuire, Megan Castran, Angela Bishop, Josh Thomas, Daryl Summers, Patti Newton, Natalie Bassingthwaighte, Jeanne Pratt, Liz Stiles, Flip Simmons, Rhonda Burchmore, Russel Gilbert, Jason Coleman, Alan Fletcher, John Brumby, Ruby Rose and Vince Colosimo.

British taxis were used to transport guests to the lavish afterparty at the Sofitel, with umbrellas adorning the ceiling. Waiters dressed as Chimney Sweeps served a selection of British foods and drinks, including cheeses, pavlovas, ice cream in waffle cones and spoonfuls of sugar.

Mary Poppins is truly the theatre event of the season. The season is selling exceptionally well, so get your tickets now.