Sunday Showtunes

HELLZA POPPINS

This evening I saw the only repeat show of the trip, which I did “on purpose”:  “Mary Poppins.”  Since you read my last trip report (where I raved about how incredible the show is – damn, I think that I could see it every night this week and still be happy about this trip!), I won’t be long here, except to say that once again it was awesome.  Hearing the audience reactions (appreciating the magic – literally, magic – and cheering and loving the show) was a big part of it too.  I don’t recommend seeing the show on bootleg tape; it’s just not the same energy. 

Unlike last time, where I had a sucky seat on the edge of the 3^rd row, I had a near-perfect seat right out in the center orchestra and could fully appreciate the direction of the show.  It was practically perfect in every way except for a brief microphone snafu, and the fact that this pair of children weren’t quite as charming as the other ones I saw.  (They alternate sets of children to play Jane and Michael).  Also, while the original Bert (Gavin Lee) was still the same, I saw an understudy for Poppins (Megan Osterhaus filling in for the wonderful Ashley Brown) and although she was great, she didn’t quite have the pipes that Ashley has.  In a way this was OK though – she had to play it softer and sweeter, which made her seem less “dark” than the other Poppins, so that was all right.  Absolutely a “do not miss” spectacular treat if you are anywhere near New York.  I am very sorry it lost the Tony to “Spring Awakening,” because surely if any show gives you your $120 worth this one is it.

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