Spotlight Youth Theater finds magic in 'Mary Poppins'

Posted October 03, 2017 11:00 pm

Daily Herald report

Darian Goulding as Bert, Jamie Heuser as Michael Banks and Lucy Hahn as Jane Banks during a rehearsal for the Spotlight Youth Theater Kane County production of "Mary Poppins." Courtesy of Rachel Gray

Spotlight Youth Theater Kane County will present Disney's "Mary Poppins" this weekend at the Batavia Fine Arts Centre.

The Daily Herald caught up with director Jane Layoff of Woodstock to learn more about the production.

Q. Why did Spotlight Kane choose "Mary Poppins" for its fall play?

Layoff. "Mary Poppins" is one of the most exciting shows CYT produces. The story, songs, and characters are familiar and so dearly beloved, and it's simply just so magical.

Q. Explain the casting process. How easy or difficult is it to find young actors who can act, sing and dance for the lead and supporting roles?

Layoff. Our cast is incredibly talented and it has been such an honor to walk alongside each of them as they are constantly challenging themselves.

Q. What is the age range of the actors in this play, and how many are in the cast?

Layoff. Our cast ranges from 8 to 18 years old. We have 77 talented, local kids.

Q. Are you doing the classic "Mary Poppins" or an abbreviated/updated version?

Layoff. The musical version of "Mary Poppins" is very similar to the well-known movie version, with a few songs and tweaks to make the magic work for the stage. The characters are all familiar and all of your favorite songs from the movie are in our production as well.

Q. What have been some of the difficulties or challenges in putting together this production?

Layoff. This is a huge show. There are so many elements and details that must be just right in order for the show to come together and run smoothly.

Q. What have been some of the highlights, surprises or most positive aspects?

Layoff. This has been a really collaborative process with the rest of our incredible directing team, dedicated parent volunteers, and talented cast. It's been so fun to work with so many creative individuals to help bring this story to life.

Q. What do you think audiences will like best about this show?

Layoff. Beneath all the magic and flying, there is a really sweet story and message to this show. I think audiences will fall in love with the Banks family as they go on this journey with the practically perfect "Mary Poppins."

Chelsea Pena, 15, of Gilberts as Mrs. Corry with her daughters, Annie played by Jillian Vanderheyden, 11, of Hampshire, and Fannie, played by Abbie Ludwig, 12, of Hampshire, during rehearsal for the Spotlight Youth Theater Kane County production of "Mary Poppins." Courtesy of Rachel Gray

Ariel Gray, 17, of Elgin as Mary Poppins and the Chimney Sweeps work on the big number "Step in Time" during rehearsal for the Spotlight Youth Theater Kane County production of "Mary Poppins." Courtesy of Rachel Gray

If you go

What: Spotlight Youth Theater Kane County's production of "Mary Poppins"

When: 2 and 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7; 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 8

Where: Batavia Fine Arts Centre, 1399 W. Wilson St., Batavia

Tickets: $12-$14

Details: <a href="http://www.spotlight.org/homepage">www.spotlight.org</a>/ or (847) 516-2298

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