Eden could not wait to return to Milton Keynes Theatre last night (31/10) to see the highly-anticipated Mary Poppins and here is her full review...
The experience
From the moment the show started, I couldn’t take my eyes off the stage. The theatre had such a great atmosphere, and you could feel the excitement in the air as soon as the lights went down. The set and production were incredible and every single detail, from the costumes to the lighting, felt perfectly thought out and beautifully executed.
Stefanie Jones was, quite simply, practically perfect as Mary Poppins. She had this calm confidence and charm that just drew you in, and you really believed her in the role. Jack Chambers as Bert was brilliant - full of energy and cockney charm that made every scene he was in a total joy to watch. The musical numbers were incredible, especially Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and Step in Time. They were high-energy, fun, and had the whole audience clapping and smiling along.
I also loved the cheekiness of Michael and Jane Banks, played by Oli Manning and Connie Jones - they brought so much personality and humour to the show. Watching Mr. Banks’ character develop was especially great, seeing him go from a strict, work-focused dad to someone who reconnects with his kids and learns to appreciate the chaos and joy they bring was really touching. And Mary Poppins guides the family through all of that, making the story feel magical and meaningful at the same time, without ever losing the fun and excitement.
One of the most magical moments had to be when Mary Poppins actually flew over the audience - it was breathtaking! The set design, effects, and overall production throughout the show were absolutely amazing, and it was one of those experiences that reminded you just how spectacular live theatre can be.
By the end of the show, I was smiling from ear to ear and it was clear everyone on the stage was having just as much fun as the audience. It felt so nostalgic too, bringing back memories from my childhood and reminding me why I’ve loved Mary Poppins for so long. It’s heart-warming, high-energy, absolutely full of joy, and full of those little moments that stick with you long after the curtain falls.
The story
Based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney film, the story of the world’s favourite nanny arriving on Cherry Tree Lane is more magical than ever before.
Set in Edwardian London, the production opens on Cherry Tree Lane where the respectable yet over-stretched banker George Banks (Michael D. Xavier) and his wife Winifred Banks (Lucie-Mae Sumner) are struggling to maintain order. Their spirited children, Jane and Michael Banks, are proving a handful for every nanny who dares to step foot through the door - until a sudden change in the wind brings someone quite extraordinary.
Enter Mary Poppins (Stefanie Jones) - the mysterious, magical nanny who arrives with umbrella in hand and a knack for setting things right in the most unexpected of ways. From the moment she appears, life at Number 17 Cherry Tree Lane is transformed. The children are whisked away on marvellous adventures, from colourful visits to the park to dancing on the rooftops of London with the ever-cheerful chimney sweep Bert (Jack Chambers).
But it’s not only the children who need a touch of Mary’s magic. George, caught up in the pressures of his job at the bank, begins to lose sight of what truly matters, while Winifred struggles to find her place in a world of strict expectations and social appearances. Through Mary’s firm but kind guidance, the family learns that happiness and love can’t be measured by rules or routine.
As the story unfolds, the Banks family face challenges that test their patience, pride and affection for one another. When Mary departs, the household starts to unravel but her return reminds them that anything is possible if they hold onto imagination and kindness. By the show’s end, Mary realises her work is done and, with a graceful farewell, she takes to the skies, leaving the family and the audience uplifted.
Book your tickets now
Performances: Wednesday 29 Oct – Saturday 22 Nov 2025 (Evenings @ 7:30pm, Wed, Thu & Sat matinees @ 2:30pm, Sun matinees @ 2pm)
Access bookings: 0333 009 5399
Group bookings: 0207 206 1174
Online Booking: ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes*
*Fees may apply. Calls cost up to 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge
Facebook, X & Instagram: @MKTheatre
