This week saw three stunning performances of Mary Poppins by the children of Haddenham Community Junior School, as packed houses enjoyed the well known story of two unruly children being brought to heel by the magical nanny.
Staff and pupils recreated Edwardian London, through a clever set design and amazing costumes and make-up.
Key characters carried their solo singing parts with tremendous confidence and presence, very ably supported by the school choir – bringing to life the magical story of Mary Poppins and all the wonderful songs we know so well.
The strikingly colourful carousel scene was a stroke of creative genius, as our favourite characters rode on their hobby horses and a large parasol gave us the rotating roundabout – brilliant!
Uncle Albert had us all giggling in contagion as, in fits of mirth, he and Bert floated high above the floor, with cups and saucers ingeniously positioned around their ears.
As elderly Banker Mr Dawes Senior hobbled onto the stage we knew there was going to be a battle for Michael Banks' Tuppence – and the choreography proved a delight, as all the bankers lined up to join in the tug-of-war.
The London rooftop skyline was dramatically represented in silhouette and made for a stunning backcloth as Mary, Michael, Jane and Bert took in the view from atop the chimney stack while the scene was cleverly lit in dramatic blue hues. And very sooty faces had the audience smiling, as dozens of grubby chimney sweeps emerged from the fireplace.
The finale was genuinely uplifting, as a myriad of kites were flown and Mr Banks embraced the pleasures and joys of family life – moving stuff!
Parents, grandparents and carers were blown away by the performances which reflected so well the children's hard work, and the creative energy and dedication of the staff and volunteer helpers. Standing ovations were well and truly deserved!
Well done to everyone – the performers, members of the choir, backstage and props team, the designers, the wardrobe, make-up and dressers, the lighting team, the sound guy, the front of house people and the ticket and programme folk.
Direction and Choreography: Hannah O'Keeffe & Seb Descrettes
Musical Director: David Francis
Choir: Ken Baker & David Francis
Wardrobe: Sharon Palmer with help from lots of parents!
Lots of photographs in our GALLERIES section.
