A “spit spot” on performance of Mary Poppins at Birmingham Hippodrome

Mary Poppins brings movie and theatre magic together this summer in Birmingham. 

Terri-Anne Coope at The Hippodrome

Last night I had the privilege of immersing myself in the wonderful world of Disney storytelling, as I visited Birmingham Hippodrome for the opening night of Mary Poppins.

Once I’d arrived, I was greeted outside the Hippodrome with a fitting yet unplanned performance from the Sax Pistols for Birmingham’s Jazz & Blues Festival. Their performance instantly reminded me of the trombone players in the park during the original 1964 Mary Poppins film. Already I was experiencing the magic of Mary Poppins, despite the two events not being connected in any way.

The stage performance is a beautiful reimagining of the film we all know and love. And whilst we hear all of the big moments we remember from the film, we’re also treated to brand new songs that fit in so brilliantly you would have thought they were written for the 1964 movie masterpiece.

At the start of the show we’re immediately introduced to cheeky Jack of all trades Bert, played by Jack Chambers. When watching him effortlessly glide across the stage, it’s hard not to think of the brilliant Dick Van Dyke, especially once you see him dance!

We are then greeted with the incredibly clever folding out of the famous “madhouse” at cherry Tree lane. Which was like something taken straight out of a children’s pop up book.

The set design and scene changes are nothing short of spectacular. Using the whole theatre (including the roof) to deliver a dazzling representation of true Disney magic. Using lighting, multiple overhead wires  and mind boggling theatrics that had me wondering how on earth they achieved it, to deliver complete immersion in to the story of Mary Poppins.

Stefanie Jones lights up the room as she delivers a Julie Andrew’s esque performance as Mary Poppins, her vocals marry perfectly with those of Chambers to deliver beautifully heartwarming renditions of “Jolly Holiday” and “Supercalifragalisticexpialidocious”

But the true stars of the show are the brilliant Olive Harrison and Oliver Benson playing the playful and mischievous Jane and Michael banks. The comic timing of Michael’s lines had me in fits of laughter whilst Jane’s emotional delivery had me welling up in many moments throughout the performance.

Mary Poppins is a theatrical masterpiece that needs to be seen to be understood. The touring production delivers West-End style magic and takes you right back to your childhood, without having to leave Brum! 

Mary Poppins is at Birmingham Hippodrome until Saturday 23rd August. For more information, and to get tickets, visit birminghamhippodrome.com.