If you’ve been fascinated with the “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” world of Mary Poppins since childhood, you won’t want to miss the Broadway musical Mary Poppins. The stage production plays at the San Diego Civic Theatre from Aug. 10-21.
The musical is much more than just a retelling of the beloved 1964 Disney film adaptation and its infamous songs, such as “Jolly Holiday,” “Spoonful of Sugar” and “Step in Time.” Elements of the original book by P. L. Travers help to round out the stage production and introduce the audience to a side of the story of Mary Poppins that they may not be familiar with.
“Some of the characters and quirky lines are directly from the book, which makes it more exciting for those that haven’t read the book,” said Q. Smith, who plays Mary Poppins nanny nemesis, Miss Andrew. “They can look at Mary Poppins with fresh new eyes. Don’t expect the movie but expect the best parts of the movie and the book together.”
The character of Miss Andrew, although she made a quick appearance in the movie, is largely taken from the book and serves as a contradiction to Mary Poppin’s spoonful-of-sugar approach to child-rearing. Instead, Miss Andrew attempts to cure the misbehaving children with a serving of the vile syrup of brimstone and treacle.
“Miss Andrew doesn’t believe she’s a villain,” explained Smith. “She’s just very strict and straight from the Victorian era. She does what she thinks is right for the children, but to the audience, she’s the villainous character in the show.”
The musical adaptation of Mary Poppins began in London in 2004 before traveling to New York City in 2006. While the show continues to run on Broadway, the production also began touring the United States in 2009.
Smith, who had never seen the film or read the book, was just vaguely familiar with the story of Mary Poppins prior to taking on the role. Even after hearing about the audition, she decided to create her own interpretation of the character rather than gain inspiration from the previous works. Finally, after being cast in the touring cast in her original role of Mrs. Corry, Smith familiarized herself with the film and Broadway versions. After two years as Mrs. Corry, she was bumped up to play Miss Andrew in January.
Recreating the fantastical Mary Poppins on stage, complete with chimney sweeps dancing on the rooftop during the musical number “Step in Time,” presented a challenge.
“The creators of the show have come up with this amazing idea and concept of how to make that real and make it happen for the audience,” assured Smith. “I think “Step in Time” is probably everyone’s favorite number.”
Although a few songs and other elements of the popular film have been omitted from the musical, there’s so much else going on that few people will miss it.
While some may assume that Mary Poppins is purely for a child’s enjoyment, Smith strongly believes that it’s a show for the whole family.
“It kind of just has that magical element,” Smith said. “It’s not an adult rated show nor is it an over-the-top cheesy kiddy show. It’s something that everyone can come enjoy.”
There will be 16 performances at the San Diego Civic Theatre from Aug. 10-21, including afternoon and evening showings.
For more information or to order tickets, visit broadwaysd.com.
