A magical nanny turns life upside down on Cherry Tree Lane for the Banks family. Children Jane and Michael Banks attempt to bring the family back together with the help of their new nanny Mary Poppins.
The fun and eye-opening stage play “Disney’s Mary Poppins” is now showing through March 9 at the Park Theater. The production is directed by Logan Taylor and Isaiah Banegas, and presented by Dream Reality Group, and The Park Theatre Group. This is the 11th production for Taylor, and he is thrilled to be joined by Banegas for this whirlwind show.
“This production has been a challenge in the fact that it should be presented on a much larger stage, but we have an amazing crew and actors who have put so much time in the process to make the magic come to life,” said Banegas.
“Mary Poppins” features a slate of talented actors, starting with Anna Kneip, a 17-year-old stage veteran in the lead role. Her sidekick is Bert, a working class Englishman with a fun cockney accent portrayed by newcomer Griffin Duke.
“This is my first show ever, and I’m very excited to be part of this production,” said Duke. “I’m not sure how well I sing, but they seem to think I’m okay. I have been working on my cockney accent.”
George Banks and Winifred Banks are played by Christopher Burt and Holly Caten, and are joined by Dicen Dunlap and Kira Franson as their children. The Banks family is going through some trying times, and with the help of Poppins and a group of creative townspeople, they are able to mend their problems.
“This is a play that shows the importance of family, and that we should put our loved ones before any other distractions,” said Banegas. “Mary is here to teach Mr. Banks that family is the most important thing in life.”
Opening night was Friday, with other shows set for March 8 at 7 p.m., and March 9 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are available at ParkTheaterMcMinnville.com, or by calling 931-506-2787.
“We hope everyone will get the chance to see the show and our amazing cast,” said Banegas. “They are so professional, putting their hearts and souls in the theatre. 'Mary Poppins' is practically perfect in every way.”
