Mary Poppins returns - and is practically perfect in every way
by Paul Atkins · Manchester Evening NewsCameron Mackintosh and Disney's dazzling production of the multi-award-winning musical Mary Poppins makes the perfect Christmas gift.
Opening to rave reviews in Bristol, Mary returns to Palace Theatre Manchester next spring as part of a new UK and Ireland tour.
Inspired by the beloved stories of P.L. Travers and the iconic Walt Disney film, the tale of everyone’s favourite nanny arriving on Cherry Tree Lane is more magical than ever.
Perfect for audiences of all ages, Mary Poppins is a heartwarming spectacle filled with memorable characters, stunning special effects, and unforgettable songs, including Jolly Holiday, Step in Time, Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, and Feed the Birds.
Aussie stars Stefanie Jones and Jack Chambers will reprise their critically acclaimed roles as Mary Poppins and Bert after earning rave reviews and standing ovations during their performances in the recent Australian production.
The Age newspaper hailed Stefanie 'a terrific Mary Poppins, who gives an impeccable performance', and called Jack Chambers 'a glorious Bert, with happy feet and a thousand-watt smile'.
(Image: Danny Kaan)
Magical production
Since its premiere at the Bristol Hippodrome in 2004, the stage adaptation of Mary Poppins has gone on to record-breaking productions around the world, gaining over 50 major international awards, including two Olivier Awards and one Tony Award.
Over 15 million people have witnessed the magic worldwide with the production having been translated into 13 languages.
Cameron Mackintosh said: “It is amazingly already 20 years since Mary Poppins first landed on the stage at the Bristol Hippodrome and started spreading Pamela Travers' magical stories around the great cities of the world.
"Mary has soared triumphantly around the globe, and our recent Australian production discovered two of the most delightful Mary and Berts ever - Stefanie Jones and Jack Chambers - whom I'm thrilled to be bringing to the United Kingdom and Ireland to star in this spectacular new national tour.
"They are heading a wonderful cast and I'm sure you will find this the most magical production of Mary Poppins ever, practically perfect in every way!”
(Image: Danny Kaan)
Beloved tale
Thomas Schumacher, Chief Creative Officer and Producer, Disney Theatrical Group, added: "It is a joy to bring this glorious production back to the UK and Ireland under the guiding hand of our long-time partner Cameron Mackintosh.
"It is a privilege to keep the beloved tale of Mary and the Banks family alive for audiences who know it well, and for a new generation of theatregoers."
Find out more
Mary Poppins is at the Palace Theatre Manchester from April 9 to May 17, 2025.
Tickets are available now at www.atgtickets.com/shows/mary-poppins/palace-theatre-manchester