This would have to have been one of the most well-received productions I have seen in a long while.

Granted families are generally biased and the audience was full of mums, dads, grandparents, given it was a Youth Production, but I had no children on stage and was equally enthralled with the enthusiasm and dedication that came across the footlights.

This ambitious production was Directed by Ben Francis, Choreographed by Jacinta Vistoli & Musically Directed by Kaitlyn McKenzie & Ben Francis.  This young team filled the Brimstone Cast with some incredible triple threats.

The six principle roles of Mary – Samantha Keough, Bert – Jayden Ayling, Jane – Polly Schubert, Michael – Thomas Tirrell, Mrs Banks – Isabela Walters and Mr Banks – Ethan Joy were all exceptional and received well-deserved and resounding applause during their bows.  The role of Mrs Andrew/Bird Woman was performed by Maxx Fischer who had the most amazing vocal range.  Mrs Corry – Emily Bennett, Mrs Brill – Jenna Saint and Robertson Ay – Emily Rawlings, rounded out the comedy trio nicely with excellent timing.  The entire ensemble were well cast and the mass movement items well drilled, in particular Supercali…..  which would have challenged even the most seasoned professional performers.

As always, Opening Night can be fraught with nerves and technical issues.  Poppins did not miss out with lighting and audio problems but I am certain these would have been addressed quickly and corrected over following performances.

My congratulations go to all involved in this superb production and in particular to Adelaide Theatre Academy and all youth companies out there.  You are doing an amazing job to nurture and encourage our performers of tomorrow.

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