Sharon Middle School to Present "Mary Poppins" March 31, April 1 and April 3

Not many movie characters have stood the test of time better than the supernatural nanny who descended upon London to bring order to a dysfunctional family. The notorious nanny was brought to life in the 1964 film “Mary Poppins” and subsequently revitalized on the Broadway musical stage in 2006. Now “Mary Poppins” will be presented by the Sharon Middle School (SMS) Theater Department in three performances (Thursday and Friday March 31st and April 1st at 7:00 pm and Sunday April 3rd at 2:00 pm).

The story is narrated by Bert (played by 8th grader Jack Price), who remains a constant presence as Mary Poppins’ best friend. The Banks family father, George (played by 8th grader Jasper Olson), is an emotionally detached businessman focused on wealth and ambition. His misunderstood wife, Winifred (played by 8th grader Maytal Cooper) is distraught as she struggles to meet the demands of her husband and provide her children with much needed attention. Speaking of the children, little Jane and Michael Banks (played by 7th grader Aneeza Ahmad and 6th grader Barry Spoto) are continually getting into mischief to capture their parents’ attention.

When the winds change, in comes the mysterious Mary Poppins (played by 8th grader Maddie Rothstein), who teaches the family simple and important life lessons with equal parts magic, common sense and adventure. In the end, both the children and parents experience healing as they learn to love and value each other.

For many veteran cast members, the opportunity to participate in musical productions has had a profound impact on their SMS experience. “Being in the shows has been an important and influential part of my SMS life and I hate to see it end,” says 8th grader Jack Price. “But I look forward to joining the theater company at Sharon High School next year!” Fellow 8th grader Maddie Rothstein adds, "I have loved being in this show! When I'm at rehearsal I feel like I am with my second family. "

While the time commitment is significant, the students enjoy the creative opportunity to breathe life into their characters. “It has been really enjoyable playing a bubbly and fun character,” exclaims 7th grader Lindsey Gould who portrays the owner of the Talking Shop, where the familiar song “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” is set. “As Michael Banks, I am constantly being told to act bratty,” says 6th grader Barry Spoto. “It is a lot of fun since that kind of behavior is unacceptable offstage.” Seventh grader Aneeza Ahmad sums it up well, “It’s so much fun working together with your friends to create an awesome show that you know people will enjoy!”

French teacher Craig Szczepanski has been directing the SMS theater productions for 18 years. “I am amazed year after year by what these middle schoolers can accomplish.” Szczepanski relishes the creative process adding “I enjoy watching the entire process of these middle schoolers growing as both performers and stage hands from the first rehearsals to the last show. I am so fortunate to be able to share my love of theater with them.”

According to SMS Music Specialist Ruth Debrot, the best part about working with the cast and crew is the dedication of the students. “Not only do we have a gifted group of students who love to sing, dance and act but we have equally talented students working backstage. This includes two 8th grade students who are in charge of props and costumes during the show.” Debrot recognizes the maturity of the students adding “Having a largely student-run show is a testimony to how very capable and responsible the students at SMS can be.”

“Mary Poppins” tickets are $10.00 for general seating (or purchase $20.00 reserved seats) online at http://quicktix.org/marypoppins or call 781-784-1560. Students can also buy tickets with cash or a check for $10.00 each during lunch at Sharon Middle School.