The musical is based on the similarly titled series of children's books by P. L. Travers and the 1964 Disney film, and is a fusion of various elements from the two. Some elements from the books that had been omitted from the film were restored, such as the walking statue and the ladders rising to the stars. Others were removed, such as the scene in which Uncle Albert gets caught on the ceiling, laughing.
I came to understand that the author, P.L. Travers was not too fond of the American movie's depiction of Mary Poppins. As much as we loved the endearing Julie Andrews, Travers wanted a more firm nanny, which is depicted in the stage production. I also came to learn that not long after its original debut, producers Cameron Macintosh and Thomas Schumacher banned children below 3 years old from entering the theatre, deeming the show too scary for young children. Although I don't agree, there is one scene with toys that come to life that is a little questionable- let's just say it's no Toy Story.
Some of the whimsical-ness of the movie is lost in this production, but this interpretation lends a more practical nature, leaving behind a message for children (be good, treat your parents and belongings well) and adults (there's more to life than making money, be good parents, spend quality time with your children)
There are still many special effects and magic tricks, including Mary's copious carpet bag that can accommodate a hat stand, Mary flying with her trademark umbrella, Bannister sliding, and chimneysweeper Bert dancing on the ceiling in the biggest showstopper, "Step in Time."
Another showstopper was the raucously candy-coated "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious scene. There were a few other technicolor scenes that took you out of the drab london reality to Mary Poppin's world, full of fun and excitement.
Although I am torn in feeling a little deprived that this was not a replication of the movie, it was a very good production in itself. So refrain from making comparisons, and enjoy it for what it is; a great show with a great cast, and a great message.
