The SJU Theatre Company is performing “Mary Poppins” — a show for all ages — in Bluett Theatre. The cast and crew had their opening night Nov. 1 and two additional performances Nov. 4 and 5. The show’s second weekend of performances will run Nov. 8 and 9 at 8 p.m., with a final matinee Nov. 10 at 2 p.m.
Based on the 1964 Disney classic starring Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke, the stage version offers a slightly altered story with many of the same popular songs fans will remember.
Avagrace Tuft ’26 leads the cast as the titular Mary Poppins herself. Tuft says she appreciates the opportunities theater has provided her.
“It’s a way to channel all of human emotions, human experiences, and express it in a way that you can’t really do in any other way,” Tuft said.
Kat Conway ’28, who plays housekeeper Mrs. Brill, says their favorite part about putting on the show has been working alongside the rest of the cast. Conway said the show is about both adults and children having magical moments and enjoying small gestures of kindness.
“There’s a lot of magic moments where it’s less about the actual ‘Mary Poppins’ magic, and more about the magic of just loving your family,” Conway said.
The show is directed by Renee Dobson, M.F.A., associate professor of performing arts and artistic director of Bluett Theatre. Dobson said she feels the show’s message is just as important of a reason to see it as its songs, and encouraged people of all ages to attend.
“We really wanted to do something that was family-friendly,” Dobson said. “I think that it’s a fun, family-filled piece of theater.”
Robbie Whitney ’25, who stars as Bert, said the best part about participating in theater is the ability to give audiences feelings and messages that last beyond the curtain call.
“It is such a joy to hear what stuck with someone after the performance, and getting to know that you had some kind of impact on someone’s day or their perspective on a matter,” Whitney said. “It means everything.”
Tickets for “Mary Poppins” are $20, with discounts for students, faculty, staff, senior citizens and children, and can be purchased via email and Venmo 24 hours in advance, or at the door by cash or check only.
Tess Margis ’26 contributed to this story.
