Amy Chisholm stars as mysterious nanny Mary Poppins
The winner of 44 major theater awards from around the globe, “Mary Poppins” is a “roof-raising, toe-tapping, high-flying extravaganza” that is sure to enchant with its irresistible story, unforgettable songs, and dazzling special effects. The Whitefish Theatre Company presents this fantastical family classic at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish. This renowned musical opens with a sneak preview on Dec. 3 at 7:30 p.m. Performances continue on Dec. 4, 5, 11, 12, 18 and 19 at 7:30 p.m. and on Dec. 6, 13, and 20 at 4 p.m.
Based on the treasured Walt Disney film, “Mary Poppins” is the story of a mysterious nanny who magically appears in Edwardian London to care for Jane and Michael Banks. Adventure abounds as she whisks them away to meet dancing chimney sweeps, shopkeepers and an array of colorful characters. This family-friendly show features spectacular flying cast members, eye-popping sets and costumes, breathtaking dance numbers, and beloved songs such as the Academy Award-winning “Chim Chim Cher-ee,” “A Spoonful of Sugar,” “Feed the Birds,” “Step in Time,” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”. This stunning production promises to be the musical event of the holiday season.
“No matter our individual differences, we all, from time to time, can relate to feeling ‘upside down’. And when that happens, if we’re lucky, someone in our life steps in and helps make things ‘right side up’ again,” says director Jesse DeVine. “Mary Poppins, her amusing sidekick Bert, and the vibrant cast of characters in this timeless musical are sure to lift your spirits, help you find the silver lining in every situation, and show you that ‘anything can happen if you let it’.”
As part of the 33 person cast, Mary Poppins is played by Amy Chisholm, Bert is played by Mikey Winn, Jane Banks is played by Eloise McKeon, Michael Banks is played by Jackson Schindler, George Banks is played by Christoph Lawton, Winifred Banks is played by Charity Ambrose, and Miss Andrews is played by Laura Fox. Also contributing to the design of Mary Poppins are Karla West, Musical Director; Laurel Peterson, Scenic Artist; and Colin Arakaki, Lighting and Sound Designer. The exceptionally detailed costumes are designed by Lonnie Porro and her talented cast of dedicated seamstresses who’ve worked tirelessly to make over 100 costumes for the show. Finally, ZFX Flying Effects has joined WTC once again to truly make Mary and Bert fly! DeVine adds, “The dedication of this cast is nothing short of exceptional. It has been my true honor to be a small part of the magic they create on stage.”
Tickets are $22 for adults, $20 for seniors, and $8 for students with reserved seating. Tickets for the sneak preview performance on December 3rd are $10 and are sold only at the door. Tickets can be purchased at the Box Office, 1 Central Ave., Whitefish, or by calling 406-862-5371. Box office hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and one hour before performance times. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.whitefishtheatreco.org.