If you love the classic that is Mary Poppins you must go and see it be performed at Quintessence Theatre. I’ve never seen it come to life like this on the stage. It was a full family affair. So here’s you’re what to know, review and take aways.
Before you go to see Mary Poppins
The show is 2.5 hours long including an intermission. Plan for this. Since I took my kids to the show we were equipped with pop sockets to help when they would get restless. That helped. I will admit they didn’t use them as often because the show kept the strong musical aspects going. Plan to arrive about 15-30 minutes ahead. This will help you grab snacks, do a bathroom room and get familiar with seating and more.
If you want snacks at intermission-pro tip order and pay for them ahead. The snacks will be available for you as soon as intermission starts. I did that and it saved time for the kids and I to enjoy them instead of feeling rushed. Also I started the semi calm by playing Mary Poppins music on the way to get them familiar with songs that may be song. That was a hit and they have been singing a “Spoon full of Sugar” since the show.
More before you go
There is plenty of parking on the street I was able to park in front of the theater for less than 7 for 4 hours. There’s also a lot across the street as well. Masks are encouraged and requested for those unvaccinated. My family and I wore masks due to it being after the holidays. This time last year is when we all got hit with Covid. Be respectful to those who choose to wear or not.
The Musical Selections in Mary Poppins
I can’t say this enough, the actresses and actors are all talented. The music was absolutely perfection. Although we know that Mary Poppins is a musical at heart, keep in mind that it can only go as well as the singers who perform them. Every single one of them came with their A game. One of the things I appreciated is when the artist came close to the audience. This is when you’re able to really hear the individual and collective notes. Absolutely beautiful. Many of the actors and actresses who played multiple parts were just flawless in their execution.
Hanna Gaffney as Mary Poppins
Beautiful, amazing, and an outstanding actress are just some of the ways to describe her. To see her range as I just seen her perform in A Winter’s Tale was moving. She embodies everything you want Mary Poppins to be. The way she sang, her mannerisms, the singing, she had it all. I watched as soon as she entered the stage. My kids never turned away. We all were mesmerized. As a kid I understood a lot of lessons. However as a parent some of the ones that went over my head like being engaging with your family and more didn’t land like they do now.
Steve Pacek as Bert
However I believe in giving those their flowers while they can smell it and Steve was a breakout actor for me. Although the focus is on Mary Poppins and the ways she changes the children’s lives, Steve as Bert is outstanding. His ability to be in a way the glue that surrounds the cast and story line is every bind you need and want in a show.
Young Talent in Mary Poppins
I have to give the young talent their props. My youngest is interested in acting and singing and she kept talking about Sophia Aguilar and Ollie Gregorio. Both were stars. I played close attention to their energy between the two. There were absolute perfection. Singing? They have some of the most angelic voices. I don’t know that their futures may bring but it’s bright.
Mary Poppins is Worth it
The show has been extended until January 8th. I can see why. Not just because people love Mary Poppins but because from the director, Emily Trask, the set and cast is undeniably magic. Had they not extended it, it would be a disservice to the theatre world. As I close the year of theatre I would place this in my top 5 performances of the year.
So now that you have some limited time to catch the show, get your tickets now. Plan for a family or friends day. Make it a day to remember. I went to a matinee show and I wasn’t disappointed. You are going to smile from the time you enter until you leave. A special thank you to Perpetual Motion PR, Quintessence Theatre, and all of the staff and actors/actresses of Mary Poppins for having my family and I!
