Music and Lyrics by The Sherman Brothers (additional songs, music and lyrics by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe) with script by Julian Fellowes. The Beacon Musical Society Inc. (BeaMS). Epping Baptist Church. July 17 – August 1, 2026

Reviewed by Sarah Webster
[Carol had a ‘conflict of interest!]

There are few musicals as enduring as Mary Poppins. With its iconic score, larger-than-life characters and timeless message about family, kindness and finding joy in the everyday, it has captivated audiences for generations. This production embraces the charm and spectacle of the beloved classic, delivering an evening sprinkled with magic, laughter and heart.

Mia Keith, playing Mary Poppins, is practically perfect. She embodies the firm yet fair, imaginative, quirky, mysterious and playful nanny who arrives to help the Banks family rediscover wonder, kindness and what truly matters. Her voice is warm, crystal clear and effortlessly elegant, bringing every song to life. Every note is delivered with precision and grace, while her poised physicality perfectly captures the iconic character. Whether gliding through Cherry Tree Lane, tap dancing across rooftops or dancing through the park, Keith makes the magic look effortless.

Alexander Billet’s Bert is a cheeky, mischievous delight, stealing the spotlight every time he steps on stage. Instantly likeable, he effortlessly wins over Mary, the Banks children and the audience alike. His natural charisma and playful stage presence make every moment feel spontaneous, drawing the audience into Bert’s world of optimism, humour and adventure. His energetic dancing, particularly during ‘Step in Time’, showcases exceptional footwork, versatility and stamina. Vocally, he is equally engaging, delivering each song with warmth, charm and an easy conversational style that perfectly suits the role.

Sam Ardasinski, as George Banks, and Jemima Stratton, as Winifred Banks, are perfectly matched as the parents at the heart of this story. Their emotional journey sits alongside that of Jane and Michael, reminding us that Mary Poppins is as much about a family rediscovering one another as it is about a magical nanny. Ardasinski convincingly charts George’s transformation from a rigid, career-driven father to a man who rediscovers the importance of family. His ability to shift seamlessly from stern authority, to trembling beneath the table in comic fear, to an emotionally broken man on a park bench allows the audience to embrace George’s humanity and connect with his journey. Stratton brings warmth, sincerity and quiet strength to Winifred, beautifully portraying her journey from self-doubt to renewed confidence. Her heartfelt rendition of ‘Being Mrs. Banks’ is one of the production’s most emotionally resonant moments, delivered with genuine warmth, quiet vulnerability and beautifully nuanced storytelling. Tender and deeply affecting, she captures Winifred’s inner conflict while revealing the quiet strength beneath her gentle exterior.

Lucie Desjardins portrays Jane Banks’ growth from a spirited, mischievous child into an intelligent, determined and thoughtful young girl who learns the value of responsibility and kindness. Her performance is filled with confidence, warmth and youthful wonder. Hugo Bolluijt brings Michael Banks to life with boundless energy and infectious enthusiasm, capturing his playful spirit through expressive facial reactions and a cheeky charm that consistently delights the audience. Together, Desjardins and Bolluijt create a wonderful sibling dynamic, bringing smiles, curiosity and a sense of childhood wonder to the stage while showcasing the joy, imagination and heart at the centre of the Banks family.

Standout supporting performances belong to Mackenzie Day as Robertson Ay and Candy McInerney as Mrs Brill. Together, they are the comedic heartbeat of the production. Their impeccable comic timing, flawless physicality and effortless chemistry work in perfect harmony, creating moments of genuine light-heartedness and some of the show’s biggest laughs. Their playful partnership provides a welcome burst of humour throughout and proves that sometimes the smallest moments can create the biggest smiles.

Directors Isaac Owen and Wendy Cosier have created a dynamic and colourful production that captures both the imagination and the heart. Paying homage to the beloved classic while confidently stamping their own vision on the performance, they strike a thoughtful balance between nostalgia and originality. Every scene, character and musical moment has been thoughtfully crafted, supported by a strong creative and technical team who ensure the production remains engaging from beginning to end.

Choreographer Bec Swain fills the stage with movement, flair and theatrical spectacle. The choreography is cleverly designed to suit performers of varying abilities while still incorporating exciting tricks, acrobatics and magical moments. At all times, there is something for the audience to discover, creating a stage that feels constantly alive. ‘Step in Time’ is a spectacular tap-dancing showcase, with intricate footwork and infectious energy making it a standout moment. Almost impossible to surpass, ‘Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious’ explodes with a burst of colour, zany movement and a cast clearly embracing the joy of bringing such a beloved number to life.

Vocally, the production is a triumph. Under the musical direction of Andy Myles, the cast delivers each number with confidence, producing clear, crisp harmonies and consistently strong ensemble singing. The leads set the standard with beautifully controlled vocals, each bringing a tone perfectly suited to their character, while the soloists impress with both power and finesse. Complementing the cast is the superb live orchestra, whose polished musicianship adds warmth, richness and energy to every score, elevating the production and making the overall theatrical experience a genuine delight.

Performing in a church hall presents unique challenges, yet the creative team has made strategic use of the available space to deliver a cohesive and engaging production. Transitions between scenes occasionally reveal the practical realities of the venue, with some crew movement visible during scene changes, but the overall flow of the performance remains strong. The sound design successfully balances the cast and live orchestra, while the bright and colourful lighting creates a warm atmosphere that supports the storytelling.

The true magic of this production lies within its ensemble. The large-scale musical numbers radiate joy, filling the stage with vibrant movement, rich vocals and boundless energy. The ensemble’s commitment, enthusiasm and obvious enjoyment are infectious, creating a sense of community and reminding audiences that the heart of Mary Poppins lies not only in its iconic characters, but in the collective joy of storytelling. ‘Step in Time’, ‘Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious’ and ‘Playing the Game’ are particular highlights, showcasing a company that performs with heart, dedication and a genuine love for the stage.

More than just a retelling of a beloved classic, this production captures the spirit of Mary Poppins — reminding audiences that family, imagination and kindness are often the greatest magic of all. With a talented cast, infectious ensemble energy and a generous sense of wonder, this production delivers exactly what musical theatre should: an opportunity to laugh, connect and leave the theatre with a smile long after the final curtain.

Review by Sarah Webster

Published here with permission of both the author, and of Stage Whispers magazine.