By Samantha Simons and Emily Smith
With the cast ranging from grade 2-12, Walpole students auditioned and were accepted into the Un-Common Theatre Company in Mansfield for the musical “Mary Poppins.” The show, which opens next weekend, features freshman Cate Lightbody as Bert, her sixth grade sister Abbi Lightbody as Mrs. Corry, junior Myles Qualter as Admiral Boom and Von Hussler, and freshman Sydney Schultz is Valentine. Other cast members from Walpole include eighth grader Grace Ward (Bird Woman) and sixth grader Caterina Seeley (a member of the ensemble).
The 1964 Disney classic, “Mary Poppins,” follows the story of Bert, who introduces the audience to the Banks family. Children Jane and Michael Banks look for their perfect nanny, and one day Mary Poppins arrives. She teaches the family valuable lessons through magic and adventures. The main theme of the show is to join together and learn to work as a true family.
With rehearsals three times a week for three to four hours, the cast seems to be quite busy. Although there is much to do every rehearsal, the company enjoys the hustle and bustle.
Backstage there is an orderly chaos that highlights the overall effort going into the process of making the show. “I like how many quick changes there are and how we are always doing lots of [tasks],” Schultz said.
Despite the workload, the Walpole enjoy being part of the diverse cast. Eighth grade member Grace Ward has been in seven other Un-Common shows and has formed strong bonds with her fellow cast members over the years.
“Everyone is so supportive and it is one big happy family,” she said.
Cate Lightbody is in her sixth Un-Common show.
“I am really excited to be performing with all my friends again and I want people to know that a lot of work goes behind it and everyone who is involved puts a lot of time and effort into it, and it is really exciting to showcase that,” she said.
With the show including complex dances and amazing harmonies, “Mary Poppins” offers something entertaining for every member of the family.
“Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious [is my favorite song and dance to watch], the choreography in the number is insanely difficult,” said Producer Matt Reingold.
“Anything can happen” at the Un-Common Theatre Company’s upcoming production of “Mary Poppins.” Performances are on Nov. 17-19 and tickets can be purchased by calling 1(800)-838-3006 or online (http://ow.ly/HncO30f4YN1). Tickets are $22 for adults and $17 for students and seniors, but tickets purchased at the door are $25 for adults and $20 for students and seniors.
