If the inaugural performance of Mary Poppins is any indication, then the future of entertainment at the Dunfield Theatre will be “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.”
Drayton Entertainment’s production of Disney’s and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins is a spectacle of magic and imagination that engages young and old, with a refreshingly spirited take on a classic tale.
The ups and downs on Cherry Tree Lane are brought to life by a cast of incredible performers, from the lead actors to the back-up chimney sweeps. It is an ensemble cast that makes you feel as if Broadway came to town.
And it did, with the talents of Mark Ledbetter in the role of Bert, who ties the story together weaving charm and mystery through song and dance.
Jayme Armstrong flies into the role of Mary with a confidence and charisma, making the role her own. Capturing the hearts of the audience, Armstrong blows in on the wind and stirs up the plot, leaving audiences hopeful and uplifted.
Pulling some magic out of the carpet bag were Hadley Mustakas and Trek Buccino in the role of the Banks’ children. These two young stars were a team in every sense and deserve much credit for their mature stage presence and loveable appeal.
Jackie Mustakas brought great warmth and sincerity to the role of Winifred Banks, playing well off her fictional spouse, the gruff George Banks, played by James Kall, who takes audiences from stern to humble in an affectionate way.
It would be amiss not to mention the powerful performances by Jayne Lewis, whose moving performance and sweet song in the role of Bird Woman was captivating, while her tyrannical alter ego Miss Andrew was a scene stealer. She added a component to the show that left a lasting, laughing impression.
The three ensemble cast numbers featured impeccable choreography, set design and a musical score to bring it all to life. The Chimney Sweep’s Step in Time dance was a fabulous high-energy tap performance.
The whimsical spectacle of the theme song Supercalifragilisticexpial-idocious, was a visual delight with imaginative costumes and a colourful set. When the toys came to life in Playing the Game, every parent who has ever uttered “clean up your room” wanted to cheer along.
This performance of Mary Poppins is “uplifting” for the whole family and a good reminder that great theatre continues to grow closer to home.
When the wind blows through on April 28, this production will leave a magical lingering in it’s wake. Catch Mary Poppins before she flies away. For tickets: dunfieldtheatrecambridge.com.
