Colossal! is the best one word description of the musical “Mary Poppins” which opened Thursday at the Ocala Civic Theatre. The show is based on P. L. Travers writings (circa 1933) and the Disney’s 1964 movie version. But neither reading nor watching the silver screen can capture the aura of the magical nanny—it must be seen live.
Chimney sweep Bert (Gregg Bleam) opens the show rising from the orchestra pit and becomes the core narrator.
George Banks (Brian Watson) is an officer in a financial business and lives in an upscale home in London with wife Winifred (Alana O’Leary). Their two young children Michael (Matthew Minassian) and Jane (Ava Pizzuti) are undisciplined and go through nannies like an afternoon thunderstorm in The Villages. Then comes the magical appearance of Mary Poppins (Angie Petty) bent on functionalizing the entire Banks family. She begins with a lesson when Jane carelessly breaks a doll. Poppins brings all the toys to life and has them taunt the children teaching them a lesson in decorum.
Yes, Mary Poppins does fly. Rigging works well through several scenes as the audience holds its breath. In addition, a dancer or two were lofted. The classic closing silhouette is perfect.
In the lead role, Petty is Practically Perfect as Poppins. Bleam is energetic, enthusiastic, and a good dancer that overrides any shortness of a pure Cockney accent. The kids, (Pizzuti and Minassian) are true performers never missing a line or cue, but I would have liked to see a touch more of downright naughtiness in their opening scenes.
The chorus is up to speed in all their numbers. Congrats to those who were triple cast in various scenes!
Scenery is magnificent with imaginative creations as expected at OCT. There are 23 scene changes, so timing is critical. The backstage crew meets the challenges.
The kite scene is the most spectacular. You will not forget it.
“Mary Poppins” is a huge show and rarely attempted by regional theaters. Touring companies usually ask $75 for a ticket, so $25 is a true bargain.
Choreography met expectations on all levels.
Top accolades go to Director Andrew Crusse for putting everything together. This show exhibits some of the best stage blocking you will ever see. Nothing faltered on opening night. Crusse is an Assistant Professor in theater at Central Florida University, Ocala Campus.
“Mary Poppins” gets a Must-See rating. It plays through Oct. 4. The show runs 2 hours, 40 minutes including intermission. For other information visit their web-site at www.ocalacivictheatre.com.
For a complete list of 100 scripted shows in and around The Villages for the current season visit www.jackstheatre.blogspot.com.
Jack Petro reviews local theater for Villages-News.com
