Westminster Christian School students to stage 'Mary Poppins'

The Westminster Christian School fine arts department is proud to present the magical, heartwarming production of Disney and Cameron Mackintosh's "Mary Poppins."

The performances will take place at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 10, and 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, at the Hemmens, 45 Symphony Way in downtown Elgin. Tickets, $10-14, are available at www.westminsterchristian.tix.com.

"Mary Poppins" tells the powerful story of a broken family, healed and drawn together by the work of a "practically perfect" nanny. When Mary Poppins arrives at No. 17 Cherry Tree Lane, she is prompt to observe the family's relational disarray. She centers herself on this superior goal: to heal and restore the Banks family dynamic. She stirs their ability to see for themselves, to believe that "anything can happen," and take joy in "every job that must be done."

You'll hear the Sherman brothers' iconic songs, including "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious," "Spoonful of Sugar" and "Let's Go Fly A Kite."

Senior Brynn Maxwell is honored to be taking on the "rosy-cheeked" role of Mary Poppins,

"It has always been my favorite musical," Maxwell said. "It's definitely helped me become closer to my cast and my directors. I've really felt God's presence here; the directors have instilled in this process that God is going to be the foundation of it all. I am truly blessed to have this experience, with these people; I wouldn't want it any other way."

The jolly chimney sweep Bert is played by Jonathan Franco, a senior.

"It is challenging to stay in character and sing and dance simultaneously," Franco said. "Tapping was difficult at first, but Mrs. (Lois) Shaw definitely put time and effort into us (and 'Step in Time') and we have grown … thank you, Mrs. Shaw!"

Michaela Newton, also a senior, is playing the role of Winnifred Banks.

"'Mary Poppins' has challenged me as an actress in so many new ways," Newton said. "Adopting a character that is so different from myself forced me to dive deep into what makes Mrs. Banks tick. The enduring support of the cast and directors always makes Westminster theater special and I'm so glad that 'Mary Poppins' was my final musical."

Johanna Johnson (director, producer), Lois Shaw (vocal director and tap choreographer) and Rosalie Mahler (choreographer) are elated to be presenting this production.

"It has been an absolute joy to see this show come together, to see these students encourage one another, to see our staff grow closer through tears and laughter and ultimately to see God's promises (of new mercies and steadfast love) reign true throughout this production," Johnson said.