Upcoming Event: RHS Musical "Mary Poppins"

By Jennifer Ersalesi

The Rutherford High School Drama Department will present Mary Poppins: The Musical this weekend. The Directors, cast, stage crew, musicians, and many others have been working on this huge production since December. This musical includes something for everyone and will delight audience members of all ages. This is Rutherford interviewed two of the Directors, Courtney McManus and Matt Vaccaro to learn more about this show.

TIR: What have you enjoyed most about directing and choreographing Marh Poppins?

Courtney McManus: Mary Poppins is, without a doubt, the most challenging show I’ve ever had to direct. We’ve been in the planning stages since June, and it has pushed our production team to think creatively about various aspects of the show. Watching our scenic design come together has been incredibly rewarding. The set you see is primarily student-driven, with leadership from our scenic designer, Joe Cisneros (’16).

Matt Vaccaro: Mary Poppins is such a beloved show, so directing this was stressful, as we wanted to make sure we made the story come to life. Building the sets with their magical element and then watching the kids work on their acting to bring these beloved characters to life is probably the most exciting thing. The kids really stepped up to the challenge, and it's wonderful to see.

TIR: What are you most excited for audiences to see?

CM: This season, our students were specifically challenged in the area of choreography—and they truly rose to the occasion! Get ready to witness some of the most intricate and high-energy choreography we’ve ever performed. My personal favorite is Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. The original Broadway choreography was inspired by British Sign Language and incorporated elements of it into the dance, so you’ll see its influence throughout the number.

MV: I can't wait for the audience to see the choreography for this show. It is high energy and intensity, and the kids do a fantastic job. Supercalifragilistic utilizes British sign language, and every cast member learned it and helped bring that number to life. Watching our young audiences laugh and sing to the fast-paced, chaotic number is incredible.  

TIR: The story of Mary Poppins is loved by many.  How is the Broadway show different from the movie and book?

CM: Mary Poppins is a story that has deeply shaped my view of the world. She is both practical and playful, providing structure while allowing the Banks children to be creative and silly. She teaches them to embrace life’s messiness while maintaining a sense of wonder. Mary Poppins is a magical character whom I hold close to my heart.

The story follows a similar arc—Mary Poppins arrives on Cherry Tree Lane to teach the Banks children (and adults!) a few valuable lessons, all with a spoonful of sugar. However, the Broadway show was adapted to stay closer to the original P.L. Travers books. Some songs have been added or altered to emphasize specific moments. For example, “Step in Time” is still a high-energy number, but it’s been reworked into a tap dance. If you love the movie, you’ll definitely enjoy the musical!

MV: The movie and show are similar in many ways, but the Broadway version goes more in-depth with the parents than the film. You get to see the characters' struggles and how Mary Poppins affects everyone, not just the children. You also see a different side of Mary Poppins, a stern version who means what she says. Audiences will love this classic story while learning new things they may not have seen before.