Mary Poppins: The Broadway Musical

Location: Kimmel Center/Academy of Music

Date/Time: Sunday, April 17,2011 @ 1:00 pm (Final Show)

Length: About 3 hours & 20 minutes intermission

Price: $135

More Information: http://disney.go.com/theatre/marypoppins/

My rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

I'm going to be honest.  I never liked this movie.  I know.  That's sacrilege.  I can't put my finger on why though.  However, I do love the music.  So, how did I end up seeing this?  First, my sister and I received some gift certificates for the Academy of Music for Christmas last year.  So, looking at the line up for the list of shows playing for 2011, I wasn't too thrill.  But I told my sister I wouldn't mind seeing Mary Poppins.  I love all things Disney.  Plus, the music is great and I know most of it.

And I don't regret it.  This is a show worth seeing.

I have to say Broadway knows how to put on a show.  The first thing that will impress you is the amazing set.  Despite the size of the stage, the transitions from scene to scene was seamless and absolutely breathtaking.  The main thing that stood out for me was the "Practical Perfect" scene when Mary Poppins was pulling out full size items out of her purse.  I know there is a perfectly good explanation, but I was astounded by the "magic" of it.  Another scene to look forward to is the "A Spoonful of Sugar" kitchen scene.  Another beautiful choreography of magic and song.

Who stole the show?  Mary Poppins played by Steffanie Leigh and Burt played by Nicolas Dromard.  They were practically in every scene and their acting blew me away.  Their singing and dancing was spot on.  I didn't care for the children however.  Their voices are kind of high and annoying.  I know they are children but I could have done without.  The supporting cast played their parts well. 

The plot was based more on the book since there were scenes I was not too familiar with.  So, it was slightly more darker and more about teaching about the goodness of the heart.  That simple things can bring joy.  As with most show, before intermission, the story is upbeat with a strong plot.  But afterwards, I always feel that the ending becomes slower (like the Lion King).  It could be that I'm tired but I sincerely felt the songs and story are not as strong as the beginning.

Would I recommend you to go see this?  Definitely.  And please make sure you are seeing the traveling Broadway version.  You don't want to miss out on the set.