Mary Poppins

Matunick R.I. -- Mary Poppins has arrived at Theatre By The Sea, and the show is practically perfect in every way.

Mary Poppins arrives in the Banks household. From left to right: Haley Swindal as Mrs Banks, Ellen Peterson as Mrs Brill, James Andrew Walsh as Mr Banks, Kerry Conte as Mary Poppins, Bobby Miller III as Michael Banks, Scarlett Keene-Connole as Jane Banks, and Brian Padgett as Robertson Ay.

The musical, based on the classic movie starring Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke, has some additional songs while other scenes, such as the famously funny ceiling tea-party, are sadly removed. However, the musical already runs nearly three hours long with a short intermission, and the show never feels like anything is missing.

Theatre by The Sea's Mary Poppins is astounding. ZFX provided the special effects for flight and kite flying, while Bert Scott's scenery is impressive as always. Layered scrims, rotating set pieces, and the combination of painted and real furniture made the stage feel like a sort of fairy tale come to life.

Kerry Conte is a delightful Mary Poppins, filling the shoes of the iconic character. Her performance feels real and honest to the character, and never feels like an imitation of Andrews.

Bobby Miller III and Scarlett Keene-Connole as Michael and Jane Banks are wonderful. Miller has the audience laughing with his frequent and well delivered one-liners.

Audience favorites are the big group numbers, such as "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" and "Step In Time". Kevin Hill's choreography during these songs is most impressive, and the performances are very fun to watch.

Dancing on the rooftops of London during "Step in Time": Brad Bradley as Bert, Bobby Miller III as Michael Banks, Scarlett Keene-Connole as Jane Banks, and Kerry Conte as Mary Poppins.

Brad Trump's performance as the statue Neleus and Ellen Peterson's performance as the Bird Woman are also bright spots in this excellent and unforgettable show.

Mary Poppins is playing at Theatre by the Sea through August 16th. For tickets, showtimes, and more information, visit www.theatrebythesea.biz or call the box office at 401-782-8587.

Photographs by Steven Richard Photography