Mary Poppins JR

How great to see the return of this lively, talented and enthusiastic group on to the stage again after the 2 year gap since last production, and the build-up of confidence in the students again.

What a huge cast to manage and how well disciplined throughout. Not just enormous cast of all ages but also large stage crew and technical showing the breadth of talents for future.

The Banks Family well knit as a unit, all very clear diction and nice voices, Grace Sturman, Harry Lloyd, Ellie Howes and Matthew Patrick, brought the story to life with good characterisations. Also a big part in the family, Tommy Gledhill as Robertson, and lovely comedy actress Lauren Jarvis as Miss Brill the housekeeper.

Very strong performances and excellent voices for their cameo roles from Sophie Perkins as the Bird Woman, and particularly noticeable Isabel Stirling in the role of Miss Andrews.

The two leads were in a different category.  Reuben Elvin as Bert had the cheekiness, the confidence, the smooth vocal style and the dance ability, and the fun required for this part. And in the title role as Mary Poppins, Amber Atkins had the clear vocal quality, the convincing acting ability for the big role, the dance steps, the interaction qualities and style, managing the ‘flying’ with panache, she has to be the main contender for District 5 Young Performer.

The huge ensemble (and how many costumes!) should be congratulated on the fast moving and well drilled dance routines and many big numbers at full belt. The company obviously enjoyed being back in performance on stage and this infectious feeling spread into the audience. The stage crew were fast and furious with the many changes (stage manager Grace Smith).

I must congratulate FOH for their smart efforts and for managing ‘the masks’ as needed.

An evening to enjoy and appreciate, and a look to the future with this talent on stage.

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