Mary Poppins
at Ursuline Academy

Reviewed on November 9, 2019

Abby Fortney
Simon Kenton High School
Submitted for publication to Newspaper 1

Ursuline Academy's production of the Broadway musical "Mary Poppins" is practically perfect in every way. Ursuline Academy puts on a stunning, family-friendly performance that is of such amazing quality, one might just forget they aren't actually strolling down the streets of London or dancing on the roof tops.

"Mary Poppins" is a well-known story among both children and adults. Taking place in London in 1910, the story of "Mary Poppins" was originally written as a series of books by P.L. Travers in 1934. ""Mary Poppins focuses on the dysfunctional Banks family and their growth together as a family as a result of the arrival of the magical nanny, "Mary Poppins ."

Ursuline Academy's, performance captivated the audience through their wonderful acting, flawless singing, and interaction with the audience. Although Ursuline Academy's production,as a whole, was simply magnificent, the show's beautifully enacted choreography truly shined above all other elements. Choreographers Kendra Burgei, Sara Wentzel, and Adrienne Kelly truly outdid themselves through a combination of basic, but enticing, dance steps as well as many intricate and enticing routines.

Actress Kendra Burgei also stood out in her lead role of Mary Poppins. Not only did she captivate the audience through her charmingly confident disposition in her portrayal of Mary Poppins, but she also stunned the audience through her extraordinarily impressive vocal range. Likewise, Will Sapp provided an overly convincing performance as George Banks. Will Sapp captured the assertive and hyper-critical demeanor of Mr.Banks seemingly effortlessly and was also able to portray his growth and development as a character to the audience.

Moreover, the supporting cast of this production stood out as well. In particular, Bert, played by Sara Wentzel, was most definitely an audience favorite. Sara Wentzel provided a very convincing and compelling performance as she wowed the audience through her extraordinary stage presence and impressive vocals. Similarly, Michael, played by Mia Prasinos, brought an element of humor to the show through her witty comments, amusing line delivery, and clever facial expressions.

The technical elements of this show cannot go without mention either. The set and design teams really outdid themselves through the creation of many clever, convincing, and easily convertible pieces. These pieces allowed for smooth yet elaborate scene changes to take place quickly.

Overall, Ursuline Academy's production of "Mary Poppins" left all who saw it feeling as though they'd swallowed a spoonful of sugar long after curtain.

Kylie Davis
Taylor High School
Submitted for publication to Newspaper 10

A magical show with never ending bags, dancing dolls, and a flying nanny gives Ursuline Academy the opportunity to put on a production that is, as Mary Poppins would say, "practically perfect" in every way."

As an all female school, Ursuline Academy had a slight disadvantage to casting Mary Poppins. The director's choices to cast girls as certain male characters that gives a new and exciting twist to the show.

Kendra Burgei gives an amazing portrayal of the world-renowned Mary Poppins. As Burgei flies onto the stage in various scenes, she is in the classic Poppins pose with her magical bag on her side, umbrella above her head, and toes pointed outward. She uses her impressively high vocals and English accent to transform into her own version of the classic character.

Mary Poppins is everyone's favorite, perfect, spit-spot nanny. A new nanny is introduced the first time Mary leaves, Miss Andrew. Mary Wilkins put on an impressive performance as the nasty old woman. Compared to Mary Poppins, they wore similar things, with similar hairdos, but with Mary dressed in bright colors, and Miss Andrew in dark greys and blacks, it was clear who the kids preferred. Wilkins has an aggressive English accent, and rude facial expressions that give life to even the worst character.

The featured dancers of the show made for many memorable moments, such as songs like "Playing the Game." However, when a full cast ensemble is on stage, Ursuline Academy made sure it was for good reason. Songs like "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" made for a breathtaking dance number. Most notable was "Step in Time", which showed off the impressive tap dancing skills of the cast.

The crew of Ursuline Academy made for quick scene changes that never left the stage empty, colorful costumes that took the viewers into Mary Poppins' world, and light projections that brought the cast on the emotional journey that is "Mary Poppins." Most notably, however, was the fly and pulley system. Rented from another company, but in complete student use, the cast has put full faith in their backstage crew members who, throughout the show, hoisted them into the air to pull off tricks and special effects that brought the classic characters to life.

A family's relationship reformed, the colorful costumes begin to twirl away, and the magic of "Mary Poppins" is danced away from the stage. As the chain breaks and the wind changes, Mary Poppins takes her umbrella and leaves the kids with their parents, as she's just finished helping them bond again as a family.

Ellie Lewis
Mariemont High School
Submitted for publication to Newspaper 2

Ursuline Academy's wondrous production of the musical "Mary Poppins" was as sweet and lovely as a spoonful of sugar.

The 1964 film, "Mary Poppins directed by Robert Stevenson, was an instant success. Starring Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke , the film received five Academy Awards , including Best Actress for Andrews . The film has been preserved by the Library of Congress and deemed historically and culturally significant. To continue its legacy, the film has been thriving on the stage since 2004 and has now become of sentimental importance to all.

As a whole, the production was noteworthy. The robust cast demonstrated talent and depth and navigated the stage with ease during energetic numbers such as "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" and "Step in Time" . Some aspects had a new take, while others were presented with the comforting familiarity of the original story.

Kendra Burgei executed the lead role of Mary Poppins with poise and excellence. Burgei's articulate delivery of lines, punctuated with outstanding vocals in-between, rounded out for a terrific performance. Will Saap in the role of George Banks was perfectly stern for his role, while also showcasing character development with ease.

The supporting role of Bert , who was played by Sara Wentzel , was truly outstanding. Taking on a role of opposite gender, Wentzel made it her own and nailed the iconic character with every "Chim Chimney" reprise. Ella Skolnicki and Mia Prasinos, in the roles of children Jane and Michael, carried the production with their playful spirits and were accompanied by Annie Farkas and Mary Wilkins in the roles of Winifred Banks and Miss Andrew .

Tech has much to be proud of. Clean scene transitions (made efficient by a flexible and intelligent set design) and prompt cues facilitated the success of the show. Most notable, tech was able to parallel Mary Poppins scene of flying in the air, by a harness and pulley system, leaving all in wonder.

Overall, Ursuline Academy's production of "Mary Poppins" was exciting, lively, and practically perfect in every single way.

Tierney Rasmussen
Mariemont High School
Submitted for publication to Newspaper 3

The Banks Family seemed to be plagued by problems but that all changed when the wind blew Mary Poppins to their door. Ursuline Academy's talented actors, singers, and dancers, did an amazing job in their production of "Mary Poppins ."

In the classic musical "Mary Poppins," an unorthodox nanny comes into the Bank Family's life. Through her unusual methods, Mary Poppins teaches the Banks how to function as a family.

Ursuline Academy's production was made great by their talented leads and ensemble. The show was presented with the unique challenge of having a mostly female cast. However, Ursuline Academy's students rose to the occasion and showcased their diverse range of abilities. Additionally, the crew did an amazing job of maximizing their limited space to allow for as many sets as possible.

The show's lead actor and actress were incredibly talented. The lead actress, Kendra Burgei , embodied Mary Poppins from her jovial demeanor, right down to the iconic flying pose with her umbrella. Burgei's outstanding singing ability was showcased in the song "Brimstone and Treacle Revisited" . "Mary Poppins" lead actor, Will Sapp, who played George Banks, was also featured as the male vocalist for his amazing singing abilities.

The supporting cast did a phenomenal job in "Mary Poppins" . The supporting actress, Sara Wenzel, was absolutely sensational in her performance as Bert . Wentzel's noteworthy singing, acting, and dancing secured her as a triple threat. Another fantastic singer was the female vocalist Annie Farkas , who played Winifred Banks. Adrienne Kelly (female dancer) was an incredible dancer, and should be noted for her performance in "Jolly Holiday ."

The technical aspects of this production were exceptional. The costumes were accurate to the time period and should be applauded for the quick change during "Jolly Holiday ." The set pieces were also very functional. Ursuline Academy has a smaller-than-average stage which the tech crew did an amazing job compensating for. Every set piece served multiple functions in the show. The students also operated the fly rigging for both Mary and Bert . Many technical aspects went into making Ursuline Academy's production as great as it is.

"Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" doesn't even begin to describe Ursuline Academy's production of "Mary Poppins ."

Anna Nappi
Saint Ursula Academy
Submitted for publication to Newspaper 4

Family is universal; however, every family is different. Some families need a little more help than others. The Banks family, for example, needed a magical flying nanny to keep them from falling apart. Ursuline Academy beautifully explored this theme of family in their production of "Mary Poppins."

"Mary Poppins" follows the Banks family as their lives are forever changed by Mr. Banks's unemployment and the arrival of a mysterious nanny, Mary Poppins. The Banks family is riddled with problems: Mr. Banks isolates himself from the children, Mrs. Banks struggles to find her place in society, and the children are badly behaved. When Mary Poppins arrives, she takes the children, Michael and Jane, on a series of adventures with the intention of transforming their pessimistic perspective on life, and bringing the Banks family closer together.

Ursuline Academy's production of "Mary Poppins" was "Practically Perfect." Elaborate student choreographed dance numbers, such as "Step In Time," showcased the cast's vibrant energy and clean technique. The tireless efforts of the technical crews created the all important magical elements of the show, notably the iconic flying entrances and exits of Mary Poppins.

"Mary Poppins" is arguably one of the most difficult roles to portray; however, Kendra Burgei achieved a perfect balance between a strict disciplinary figure and an enchanting mystical role model. Burgei's vocals were lovely and brilliantly reflected the whimsical aspect of Mary Poppins. Will Sapp, who played George Banks, managed to capture the proud nature of Mr. Banks while simultaneously showing his progression from a strict businessman to a family-"focused individual.

Annie Farkas's interpretation of Winifred Banks was a beautiful illustration of a woman coming to terms with what she wants, instead of what society expects of her. In the subtly gut-wrenching "Being Mrs. Banks," Farkas, utilizing her magnificent vocal ability, explored the sacrifices Winifred must make in order to fit the role of wife and mother. Jane and Michael Banks, played respectively by Ella Skolnicki and Mia Prasinos, often acted as a comic relief in this heavy story. Their childlike antics were laughable, particularly when they attempted to make icing by blending raw egg and sugar. Bert, the loveable chimney sweep, was played by Sara Wentzel who demonstrated exceptional technique during dance numbers. Armed with a high bell kick and superb tap precision, Wentzel gave an enthralling performance.

The magic of this production could not have been achieved without the distinguished efforts of the technical crews. The props and run crew, headed by Brennah Grimes, Caroline Kurtz, Nicole Maglioco, and Julia Van Schaik, was particularly impressive, as they had to move elaborate, gigantic set pieces across the stage. They accomplished this quickly and efficiently, allowing for a more cohesive performance.

Not every family has a magical flying nanny that can help solve their problems, but the story of "Mary Poppins," especially as told by Ursuline Academy's magnificent production, inspires families everywhere to value their time with one another above all else.

Anna Fuson
William Mason High School
Submitted for publication to Newspaper 5

Everyone knows the classic story of Mary Poppins , although, many may not realize the subtle changes and difficulties the stage production faces. From the many scene changes to a wide array of characters, this show is not for the weak of heart. This past weekend, Ursuline Academy rose admirably to the challenge.

Created for the stage in 2004, Julian Fellowes's "Mary Poppins" opens on simple chimney sweep Bert , played by Sara Wentzel, as the Banks children, Jane and Michael, played by Ella Skolnicki and Mia Prasinos respectively, chase away yet another nanny. Then Mary Poppins , played by Kendra Burgei , arrives, and the Banks family embarks on an adventure in imagination. Filled with songs like "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" and "Let's Go Fly A Kite," this musical is enough to make anyone fall in love with their inner child.

Wentzel rose to the challenge of playing the much beloved Bert admirably. The role, originally written for a male, was adapted beautifully. Wentzel was easily able to keep the audience's attention. When she flew across the stage in "Step In Time," she kept a little of the wonder and magic in her character while relating to the audience. Mary Poppins , played by Burgei , stole the show. Burgei conveyed the loving and kind nanny beautifully. She was able to keep up with the high notes and easily command a respected presence on stage, and of course, holding the "Mary Poppins Pose" while flying across the stage was, well,
practically perfect.

Wentzel and Burgei were accompanied by their merry band of misfits. Jane and Micheal Banks , Prasinos and Skolnicki respectively, were a perfect blend of mischievousness and imagination, resulting in truly developed characters. George Banks , played by Will Sapp , had a stunning voice, and the seriousness of his character clearly set up the character development later in the show. Comedy duo, Mrs. Brill and Robertson Ay , played by Hannah Stansbury and George Bell , had the audience in stitches almost every time they graced the stage.

The ensemble was together and performed beautifully, finding the balance between not too distracting and not too invisible. In one of the most famous pieces,"Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious," they performed the difficult choreography admirably, every person keeping up with the moves while spelling the word, "supercalifragilisticexpialidocious." The group was almost even more impressive in the other audience's favorite, "Step In Time." The tapping was professional quality and just stunning.

Along with the actors' stellar performance, the technical elements were on-point. The Stage Manager, Caitlin Boutwell , along with her assistant stage managers, Carly Glover , Morgan Hatter , Dani Huber , Kailey Peppard , and their crew kept the scene changes short and sweet. Using a foldable set, built by Nicole Magliocco and Crew, was efficient and easy to use, easily cutting down on the lengthy transitions the show typically has. The lights and sound, designed by Avery Mathis's crew and Alli Gigax's crew respectively, were perfectly timed and fit the tone of the show. The choreography, created by Adrienne Kelly , Burgei , and Wentzel was stunning. From the use of the spelling in "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious " and the hearty tap number in "Step In Time," the student choreographers kept the magic of "Mary Poppins" alive.

Overall, Ursuline Academy's production of "Mary Poppins" was just as magical and practically perfect as the nanny herself.

Sarah Burwinkel
William Mason High School
Submitted for publication to Newspaper 6

Grab your dancing shoes, and don't forget your umbrella! Ursuline Academy's "Mary Poppins" was a delightful spin on the classic tale we all know and love with excellent acting, superb singing, delightful dancing, and practically perfect technical elements that thrilled the audience.

After Michael and Jane drive out yet another nanny, Mary Poppins saunters into the home and hearts of them both while teaching them about life, love, family, and about the importance of kindness.

Ursaline Academy's rendition of "Mary Poppins" was an overwhelming success. Full of magical technical elements that complement the singing and dancing, this production was full of joy and brought the audience back to when they believed in Mary Poppins's magic.

Kendra Burgei's performance as Mary Poppins was delightful. From her spectacular singing to her impressive grace as she flew above the stage for her final goodbye, Burgei brought passion, energy, and wit to the iconic character in charge of changing Jane and Michael's lives.

Perhaps one of the most magical people in the show was Sara Wentzel , as she fearlessly tackles challenges in her performance as Bert , during the iconic number "Step in Time ." Wentzel boldly flew over the chimneys while completing a brilliant acrobatics routine, in addition to her superb singing and impressive dancing. Wentzel brilliantly embodied the beloved Bert of our childhood while facing challenges that come with playing a gender-bent character.

Perfectly complementing the action, the props by Caroline Kurtz , Brennah Grimes , Julia Van Schaik , and crew were unsurpassed. From the ceramic teacups that fell from the cupboard to the toys and trinkets in the nursery, the entire props crew was practically perfect in their organization and execution.

Not to be forgotten, the choreography by Kendra Burgei , Adrienne Kelly , and Sara Wentzel was a spectacular embellishment to the already spectacular singing. Heavily influenced by ballet, the choreography thrilled the audience who watched the cast perform seemingly effortless turns and crisp, clean jumps. While at times the cast wasn't as cohesive as they could have been, the leads kept the group together.

All in all, Ursuline Academy's "Mary Poppins" had enough spectacular performers and outstanding technical achievements to thrill the audience and to help us all remember the same lessons that Mary Poppins taught Jane and Michael : the importance of family and kindness, even in hard times.

Alex Mastin
Simon Kenton High School
Submitted for publication to Newspaper 7

Ursuline Academy amazed this past Sunday with their rendition of "Mary Poppins." From sets, crew, costumes, acting, and vocalization, Ursuline's cast and crew never stopped surprising the audience with their overwhelming talent and skill.

"Mary Poppins," written by Julien Fellowes and music by Richard and Robert Sherman, is a Tony Award nominated tale that is performed around the world starring the Banks family and the nanny that comes in when they need her most. Jane and Michael, the children of the uptight Mr. Banks and the kind former actress Mrs. Banks, have run off every nanny their father can afford; when they need her most ,Mary Poppins appears. Mary wows the children with her magical power as she takes them on extraordinary adventures with her friend Bert. As the Banks go through social and financial troubles, Mary Poppins helps the family take their troubles "with a spoon full of sugar."

The curtain opens onto the rooftops of
Cherry Tree Lane and among the audience Bert, played by Sara Wentzel, is found setting the scene and starting off an astonishing performance by Ursuline Academy. As a whole, the obvious time and consideration put into this production constantly shined through the actors, set, and tech; everything from singing, accents, and choreography was polished to perfection. Not a single voice, actor, or actress disappointed; all maintained their character throughout the entirety of the show through facial expressions, physical stances, and vocals.

Although the show had a great and consistent ensemble, what really anchored the show was lead actresses Kendra Burgei, who played Mary , and Sara Wentzel, who played Bert. Wentzel was frequently found stealing the show with her amazing voice and acting ability. Playing a male role didn't seem to phase her as she always maintained a manly stance and movements, as well as always maintaining the fun, carefree attitude of Bert. Along with Wentzel, actress Kendra Burgei wowed in her spot-on characterization of Mary Poppins. Along with her accent, she maintained a high-pitched voice that carried into her singing voice, in addition to the sophisticated wit she portrayed.

From the comedic combo of Mrs. Brill and Robertson Ay to the rambunctious duo of Jane and Michael, the supporting actors and actresses brought laughter and light to the performance. An example of Where they brought light was George Banks's sternness which made for a more solemn relationship between him and his family members. There were many stand-out actors such as Will Snapp who played George Banks, the forbidding father figure with a misguided ideal about family values; Snapp portrayed this character marvelously. Michael, played by Mia Prasinos, also stood out for her constant portrayal of her character whether she was a part of the scene or not.

Along with the wonderful acting was the astonishing technical aspects from the onstage sets, makeup, hair, and costumes to the offstage lights, sound, and moving crew. Moreover, although there were a few times the mics went in and out, they recovered quickly. The sets were creatively minimized from the original version to fit the stage and move easily. The costumes, hair, and makeup matched the characters and scenes perfectly. As a whole, the technical aspects for this production were well thought-out and moved in and out of the scenes with grace.

Overall, Ursuline Academy's production of "Mary Poppins" overflowed with talent from the dancers, singers, and actors and was all balanced and brought together by the set, costumes, sound, and light. This production was a joy to see and never did the eyes of the audience leave the stage.

Loghan Currin
Simon Kenton High School
Submitted for publication to Newspaper 8

"Mary Poppins ," performed by Ursuline Academy , was full of magical twists and turns with captivating characters, colorful costumes, and elaborate sets.

This staged musical evolved from the book written by P.L. Travers and adapted by Walt Disney films. It revolves around a magical nanny hired by the Banks family. She teaches the children valuable lessons as they explore London and learn about life through lively songs that have become classics since their release.

The production, done by the Ursuline Academy Stage Company , brought both classic and modern elements into their musical. The cast had high energy throughout the entire production which created an enthralling component that was always noticed. With excellent sound, lighting,and dance numbers, the production, as a whole, was done well with the good work of the cast, crew, and directors.

Moreover, the leads nailed the iconic characters. Mary Poppins , played by Kendra Burgei , carried herself well which was balanced by a singing voice that brought her character to life. Bert , who is traditionally a male, was played by a female, Sara Wentzel , in this production. She did a fantastic job of making her character believable through her immense dancing skills, singing voice, and acting. George and Winifred Banks , played by Will Sapp and Annie Farkas , had good chemistry on stage and the Banks children, Jane (Ella Skolinicki ) and Michael (Mia Prasinos ) created the perfect sibling relationship paired with comedic moments.

Not only did the leads excel in their performances, but so did the rest of the cast. The Featured Dancers Ensemble and the Ensemble kept their high energy throughout the performance, especially in numbers like " Step in Time." Every ensemble member was well- prepared and had developed characterization.

The technical elements were also so well-done that any mistakes made were barely noticed. The lighting matched the scenes' emotions, and the sound effects were all on cue. The Props and Run Crew did a great job of moving quickly on and off stage, and the live music performed by the Orchestra made the show more dynamic.

With a variety of costumes, sets, props and musical numbers, Mary Poppins was a magical ride and captivating performance. It was "practically perfect!"

Annika Halonen
Seven Hills School
Submitted for publication to Newspaper 9

No ‘spoonfuls of sugar' were needed for Ursuline Academy's ‘practically perfect' production of "Mary Poppins." With singing toys, dancing statues, and a flying nanny, not an element of this production was left untouched by the magic of the original Disney story that so many hold near and dear to their hearts.

The show opens on the streets of London where Bert gives an overview of the city and stops at a large house on Cherry Tree Lane. In this house, Jane and Michael Banks have chased off yet another nanny, and their parents, George and Winifred, are in searching for a replacement. Before sending out their advertisement, Mary Poppins heeds the call and assumes the arduous task of caring for the disgruntled Banks children. With magic, love and a little bit of sass, Mary teaches Jane and Michael to view the wonders of the world with open eyes and helps their parents do the same all with the help of her friend Bert the chimney sweep.

One of the most impressive parts of Ursuline's production was the number of male roles played by women. Sara Wentzel played the role of Bert with grace and ease. Although she was tasked with singing in a lower register, her vocals were smooth and refined and her dancing was controlled and sharp throughout all of her dance features. Another strong part of this production was the ensemble of dancers who were featured in numbers such as "Step in Time" and "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious". They completed tap steps in perfect rhythm to the music and held tight in the strong formations while performing intricate choreography. Annie Farkas played the role of Winifred Banks gave a beautiful balance of power and delicacy to solos such as in "Being Mrs.Banks".

In order to make magic happen on stage, all parts of the technical crews had to work their magic backstage first, and they were practically perfect in doing so. Each scene brought a plethora of new costumes which were all not only accurate to the time period, but in an array of colors that replicated the magic and joy of each scene.

Adding to the fantasy of the story, the well- thought-out hair and makeup plots were very true to each character, especially for the difficult task of male characters played by females. One of the most magnificent feats of the entire show was the use of a flying system that brought Mary into the air during her "Au Revoir" at the end of act one and let Bert do mid-air flips during "Step in Time".

Uruline Academy took a classic and was able to preserve its charm and wit with their own touches of magic in every scene. This well-loved classic left audiences with joy and laughter thanks to the magic of the beloved nanny, Mary Poppins.