West Otago and surrounding areas - you are in for a real treat this winter.
West Otago Theatrical Society’s production of Mary Poppins hits the stage at the end of June and it’ll be a spectacular show you won’t want to miss. Set in London in the early 1900’s, it’s the story of a magical nanny who arrives with the wind to help a troubled family on Cherry Tree Lane. She brings with her happiness and change during a difficult time in the household. It’s a feel good story with a touch of magic here and there. Your toes will be tapping to the energetic musical numbers and the story will warm your heart. You could say Kayla Wilcox, who played Christine in Phantom two years ago, is ‘practically perfect’ for the role of Mary Poppins. A seasoned performer with the voice of an angel who can sing, dance, act, with poise and precision. Also cast is newcomer to the WOTS family, Scott Mitchell, who plays Bert, the narrator and good friend of Mary Poppins. Scott is actually Scottish with the full accent to boot until you hear him sing and he sounds like a different person! His character Bert speaks in a cockney accent so get your head around that mash up! A Scotsman from Cromwell who sounds like a cockney chimney sweep from London in the Edwardian era. Now that’s talent. The two children will be played by Lucas Miller (12) and Carter Mitchell (11) as Michael and Jane Banks, with understudies Georgia Bell (12) and Zoe Lietze (9). These young people are fantastic already and their journeys have just begun. Their mother Winifred Banks is played by the lovely Jane Stuart, Principal of Tapanui Primary School. Jane is no stranger to the WOTS stage and brings experience and skill to the role. Mr George Banks is a stern father who demands precision and order in his life – a role Rob Hall of Waikaka has taken on rather convincingly. Rob too a seasoned performer with bold stage presence and that wonderful resonance to his strong tenor voice. Alongside the lead characters are many cameo and supporting roles featuring new and familiar faces on the WOTS stage. Directing this show is the talented Margie Rea who has been at the steering wheel for many of the recent big WOTS shows - most notably Cats, Les Miserable, Annie and Phantom of the Opera to name a few. Joining her is husband Jeff Rea as Musical Director alongside Nicola Russell. WOTS is very lucky to have such skill and expertise in the musical department. Kirsten McIntyre will feature on choreography – the creative and busy mother, teacher and farmer getting the cast to kick those heels and turn in the right direction. All in all it’s a fantastic cast and crew working hard to set the stage alight come June 29th- July 6th 2024. Keep an eye out for ticket sales and get ready for a magical ride with Mary Poppins. It’s ok to get excited, we certainly are. |