After three months of rehearsals the cast of Mary Poppins JR took to the stage on Monday 3^rd December for an Open Dress Rehearsal followed by two performances on Thursday 6^th and Friday 7^th December.

Despite a difficult technical rehearsal, the cast worked hard to turn it around when we added the costumes and a small audience on the Monday night. But there was still work required before it was ready to go to an already sold out opening night. Every single member of the cast stepped up their game during the final rehearsals and produced an excellent first performance. I did not think they would be able to improve upon this in just 24 hours, but that they did. The final night was a triumph and the cast and crew of Mary Poppins JR should be incredibly proud of what they have managed to achieve in just twelve weeks.

A production such as this is a massive team effort. I am hugely grateful to everyone that has contributed to the process and the success of Mary Poppins JR. The cast were excellent throughout the rehearsals. It was not an easy task putting together the singing, acting, choreography and the staging, but this cast managed it. Regardless of their roles, the entire cast pulled together and realised the importance of every single person. I would like to thank them for their enthusiasm and the support they have shown me.

Alongside the performers, there has been an incredible team working backstage both during the production process and also during the performance tonight. In no particular order, my sincere thanks go to:

• Maggie King for her tireless support with everything.
• Jim Byrne and Simon Griffin-Raphael for the skill, patience, time and energy they put into the set.
• David Gorodi for arranging the fantastic score.
• Ashley Marshfield for his support, guidance and industrious work on notes and sound of the cast.
• Rose Vigers-Belgeonne and the BTEC Hospitality pupils for the drinks, hospitality and excellent front of house service.

A video of the musical and an album of photos from the musical can be seen below.

Will Stainton - Director & Theatre Manager