Encore Repertory Company’s production of the classic Walt Disney musical, Mary Poppins, which opened Friday at the Stadium Theatre in Woonsocket, is an unqualified triumph. Every aspect of the show is first-rate, from the performances and music to the set design, costume and special effects. It is not just a children’s show, either. There is plenty here for adults to savor.
Meaghan Bruneault is positively enchanting as the magical nanny who brings some valuable life lessons to the troubled Banks family. Jane and Michael (Hayley Gasbarro and Nolan Gibbons) run roughshod over the household staff and have scared away several nannies, to the consternation of their uptight father George (John K. McElroy II) and mother Winifred (Donna Gorham).
Mary arrives and takes the children for a walk in the park, where they meet a bird woman and see statues that come to life. At night, she animates Jane and Michael’s toys and during the day, tries to teach them manners and how to use money to make their lives better. Meanwhile, George finds his life turned upside down when he declines a loan for Von Hussler, who takes his business to another bank.
The terrific songs include “A Spoonful of Sugar,” “Chim Chim Cher-ee” and “Playing the Game;” however, the show’s best moments are the performances of “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” and “Step in Time,” featuring a troupe of chimney sweeps. They are elaborate and high-energy showstoppers.
Bruneault is a major talent, taking the role famously played by Julie Andrews in the 1964 movie and making it her own. Mary is sweet but no-nonsense as she tries to help the Banks family.
The supporting performances are fantastic all around. Adam Landry is charming and likable as Bert, Mary’s friend. Landry is a terrific singer and dancer. Karen Hastie-Wilson has some funny moments as Miss Andrew, George’s terrifying nanny from childhood. Gasbarro and Gibbons are always convincing as Jane and Michael and demonstrate exquisite comic timing. McElroy brings vulnerability to what could have been a one-dimensional character. George undergoes the greatest transformation in the story, as he learns the importance of family over money.
Mary Poppins has a lot of dazzle. The set design by Alfred Fortier III, who also directed the show, is eye-popping. The children’s bedroom, the park and the Banks house are filled with vibrant colors and detail. Johnny Cagno deserves praise for his terrific costumes. The men’s suits and the colorful gowns for the ladies are lavish and elegant. And the dazzling flying sequences, featuring Mary and a few others soaring above the stage, were provided by Flying by Foy. The technical wizardry on display is incredible.
The exuberance of the performers on stage was truly a joy to behold. The good feeling is infectious. Mary Poppins is the best musical I have seen all year. Don’t miss it.
Mary Poppins runs through October 25 at The Stadium Theatre in Woonsocket. Tickets are available at the Stadium Theatre Box Office or by calling 401-762-4545 and online at stadiumtheatre.com
Great review, Motif, but not sure where you found the photo you're using.. Here's the Encore cast:
https://www.facebook.com/StadiumTheatre/posts/999862333370456
I agree 100%. I don't say this often, but I left the theatre in a state of euphoria. Encore Rep just gets better and better