Mary Poppins February 27 and 28, 2015 - At the Emerson Cultural Center
February 18, 2015
Posted By: Shaunescy
Chim Chiminy, Chim Chiminy, Chim Chim Chiree, the Little Red Schoolhouse Players
of Anderson School are bringing the supercalifragilisticexpialidocious classic, Mary Poppins, to the Crawford Theater stage at the Emerson Cultural Center.
With a heartwarming score, spoonfuls of imagination and a very special nanny, the colorful world of Mary Poppins comes to life with dance numbers, flying actors and beloved songs from the classic film. On February 27 and 28, travel across the pond to Victorian London and Cherry Tree Lane, where the Banks family is about to be introduced to a magical governess who is “practically perfect in every way.”
Chimney sweep, Bert, introduces us to the feisty Banks children, Jane and Michael, who have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she teaches the Banks family how to value each other again. Mary Poppins takes the children on many extraordinary and memorable adventures, but Jane and Michael aren't the only ones profoundly affected by her. Even grown-ups learn a lesson or two from the wise nanny who advises, "Anything can happen if you let it."
The Little Red Schoolhouse Players’ stage version is a melding of the books written by P.L. Travers and one of the most popular Disney movies of all time. “Travers would be happy with the stage version, as it is more true to her work,” said acting director Stephani Lourie. “We will weave in and emphasize characters that were more prominent in the books. The stage version is more about the family and Banks household, including a silly house staff, providing many acting opportunities for an ensemble cast.”
Disney and Cameron Mackintosh's Mary Poppins delighted Broadway audiences for more than 2,500 performances and was nominated for nine Olivier and seven TONY Awards, including Best Musical.
Now, as George Banks would say, “We will kindly try not attempt to cloud the issue with facts” – well, not too many:
Dates are Friday, February 27 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, February 28 at 2 p.m.
All seating is reserved – call 406-587-1305
Performances by the Little Red Schoolhouse Players boast many sold-out shows so buy your tickets today.
Cost is $10 for the main floor and $7 for balcony seating
Credits
-The Little Red School house production of Mary Poppins will be led by 20-year Anderson School veterans, Stephani Lourie (acting director) and Laurie Kinna (music director). Lourie grew up in Maine and Texas, starting drama at age 10 and for 40 years has done extensive community and professional theater. She is a founding member of Broad Comedy, based in Bozeman, MT. Kinna, a Montana native, started singing at age 4 and traveled the region often, performing from that age on. They are directing 75 third through eighth grade students plus more as stage hands.
-Original Music and Lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman
Book by Julian Fellowes
-New Songs and Additional Music and Lyrics by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe
-Co-Created by Cameron Mackintosh
-Presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International
