The Marietta High School Choir Program is set to open its spring production, Mary Poppins: The Musical, inviting the community to experience the magic of this classic tale brought to life on stage. The performances will take place on March 20th and 21st starting at 7:00 p.m. and on March 22nd starting at 2:00 p.m. in the Marietta High School Auditorium.
Mary Poppins: The Musical follows the Banks family and their growing tensions at home, but the unexpected arrival of a mysterious nanny brings them closer together. This stage adaptation of the classical film invites audiences to relive the wonder of childhood and slip into a world of imagination. When asked why this musical was selected, Scott Rieder, Director of Choirs at Marietta High School, said, “We thought Mary Poppins: The Musical would draw in a large crowd with kids and their families. People love the story. People know the story and can instantly relate to all the characters because they have so much history.”
This marks a shift from last year’s musical, The Adams Family: The Musical, which was also a fan-favorite but carried a darker tone. In contrast, Mary Poppins: The Musical offers a lighter and more nostalgic experience. “Most people have a lot of history with these characters, having known them since they were little kids, so we thought it would be fun,” Rieder said. The cast for this musical includes about 26 members, and Rieder said he has been incredibly impressed with their hard work and dedication.
Rieder is most excited for community members to see just how talented Marietta students are and how much they have grown in this experience. Senior, Christopher McIntire, who plays the role of Bert, said, “I am a little sad about this being my senior show and last with this program. The knowledge that I won’t do anymore shows here makes me want to give my best performance.”
Freshman, Alexa Miller, who will take the stage as Mary Poppins, shared her enthusiasm for bringing the beloved story to life. “When I heard we were doing Mary Poppins: The Musical, I just knew how exciting and fun it would be to perform the dances and bring out the story behind it. We get to go into a deeper part of our imagination to tell such a wonderful story,” Miller said. Miller grew up watching Mary Poppins and is beyond excited to bring the iconic character to life for audiences.
Aside from the standout performances, the imaginative set design and dynamic lighting will be sure to captivate audiences and truly bring the story to life. “Mr. [Jon] Sarver and his students are doing a fantastic job building sets that I think are going to really impress people,” Rieder said. Although the production could not purchase traditional flying rigs, Rieder said the directors are working on a few tricks that will still let audiences experience the iconic umbrella flight.
This year’s production is one that audiences will not want to miss. Miller said, “Mary Poppins teaches us that the most important investment we can ever make is in the people we love. Being part of this story has allowed me to see that Mary is not just a magical nanny, but she reminds people that sometimes the most powerful change comes from learning how to love.”
Rieder extends his gratitude for all the businesses who purchased advertisements in the program and everyone who helped make this show possible.
Tickets for Mary Poppins can be purchased on the Marietta City Schools Website at the following link https://www.mariettacityschools.k12.oh.us/page/athletics