Mary Poppins @ Festival Theatre, Edinburgh
This new take on Mary Poppins brings an irresistible blend of innovative staging, excellent performances and classic songs
The magic of Mary Poppins is sweeping across the UK once again, landing at Edinburgh's Festival Theatre with a visually dazzling and heartwarming spectacle to audiences of all ages. Combining elements from P.L. Travers' original stories and the easily identifiable Walt Disney film, this new production masterfully blends nostalgia with theatrical innovation, offering a fresh yet familiar take on the beloved classic.
Leading the cast are Australian talents Stefanie Jones as Mary Poppins and Jack Chambers as Bert. Both the leads and the vibrant ensemble have practically perfect singing and dancing talent that seems too good to be true. They particularly shine on Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and Step In Time, bursting with color and energy. A special shout-out is needed for the two child actors who play Jane and Michael Banks, managing to keep a professional and charming stage presence throughout which is especially admirable in such a fun and busy setting.
One of the standout aspects of this musical is its stunning set design. The Banks family's elegant Cherry Tree Lane home opens like a doll's house, further imbeding the theme of magic and childlike wonder into the production design. Transitions between scenes are seamless and visually striking, a spectacle to behold within themeselves which keeps your attention firmly in the story. Clever projections and stage mechanics allow for breathtaking moments like Mary Poppins really flying before your eyes and Bert’s gravity-defying rooftop dance sequences. The attention to detail in each setting, from the whimsical park to the eerie, nightmarish 'Playing the Game' sequence, makes the world feel both magical and immersive.
Of course, it wouldn’t be Mary Poppins without the music. Iconic songs such as A Spoonful of Sugar and Chim Chim Cher-ee retain their timeless appeal, complemented by new compositions from Olivier award-winning duo George Stiles and Anthony Drewe such as Practically Perfect, which seamlessly blend into the score. The orchestra delivers a rich, cinematic sound that adds depth to each number, making even the most familiar tunes feel fresh.
Mary Poppins is a joyous theatrical experience. With its breathtaking sets, exquisite costumes, and uplifting music, this production is practically perfect in every way. Whether you’re revisiting childhood memories or discovering the magic for the first time, this show is a must-see.
Run ended; UK tour continues throughout 2025