On Tuesday evening, Broadway San Jose ended its 2011-2012 with Mary Poppins! It’s rare to meet anyone who does not love the magic of Mary Poppins. From the well-known songs to her warmth, very few have not been impacted by her and this tale of wonder and imagination. Opening night was finally here and the theatre was packed with fans, young and old, anticipating a wonderful evening. We took our seats and waited for the curtain to go up for the hit Broadway musical.
This performance of Mary Poppins was more than a play; it was an experience. The set design changed numerous times throughout the show. However, this was not just a change of a backdrop or a few props. Every scene had a completely new set–including various rooms, buildings, and landscape reflecting the architecture and design of the time period. I had yet to see a show use design to this extent; that detailed use made for an unforgettable performance. The creative use of lights and “magic,” and the infamous flying nanny takes you on a magical journey as you watch from the edge of your seat. Seeing Bert walk along the walls and tap-dance upon the rooftops is one of the most memorable stage stunts I have witnessed. And of course you’ll be singing along to your favorites of “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” and “A Spoonful of Sugar.”
I don’t believe that a more perfect person could be cast to play Mary Poppins. She is indeed “practically perfect in every way.” Rachel Wallace effortlessly embodies the character of the woman we have all grown to love–her irresistible charm, wit and grace. Wallace commands the stage with such presence, as though second nature. Playing Bert, Case Dillard captures his humor, spontaneity and charisma. Taking us to a simpler time, Mary Poppins and Bert remind us of what it was like to be a child again, and how that child still lives inside each and every one of us. For a few moments, we are welcomed to use our imagination and see the world in the most colorful and whimsical of ways.
Mary Poppins will be at Broadway San Jose and the Center for the Performing Arts in San Jose from now through June 10, 2012. Tickets are on sale now at the www.sjtix.com box office or call 408-792-4111 for more details. You won’t want to miss your opportunity to see Mary Poppins while it’s still in town! Be sure to follow Broadway San Jose on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/broadwaysj) and Twitter (http://twitter.com/#!/BroadwaySanJose) for updates on their upcoming 2012-2013 season and special messages for fans/followers!
