Christmas in Cardiff has gained an extra sprinkle of magic this year with the arrival of everyone’s favourite nanny. Mary Poppins has flown into the Wales Millennium Centre for a six week run, and this production is truly practically perfect in every way.
Most of us know the story of the nanny who drifts into the lives of the Banks family and changes them forever. Whether you know it from the films, the books or previous stage versions, this tour stands head and shoulders above the rest. It is charming, heartfelt and visually stunning from start to finish.
The cast in the 2025 UK and Ireland tour are incredible. Stefanie Jones is a magnificent Mary Poppins. At first her more stern and straight faced take feels unusual if you are used to rosy cheeked Mary, but her no nonsense approach to the Banks children grows on you quickly. By the interval she had completely won me over. Her voice is stunning, her movement graceful and she brings a beautifully polished glow to the role.
Her partner in magic is Jack Chambers as Bert. He is funny, warm and unbelievably talented. There were several moments where I found myself whispering “wait, what” as he tapped up walls, danced across the ceiling, sang effortlessly and performed clever bits of stage magic. He is a natural show stealer without ever overshadowing the story.
The Banks children are suitably spoilt yet soft hearted, with performances that feel confident and natural. Michael D Xavier brings charm and quiet frustration to George Banks, a man who does not quite realise how lucky he is. The staff are clumsy and funny, the ensemble is tight and even the statues and swings bring life and humour to every scene. There is not a weak link anywhere.
The staging and special effects are worth the ticket price alone. The production plays tricks on the eye and blends scenes together in ways that make you question what you just saw. The backdrop shifts and morphs before you realise it, painted scenes burst into colour and movement, statues leap into life and Mary’s bottomless bag becomes a running delight. And of course the high flying moments from Mary and Bert are showstopping.
With clever choreography, enchanting songs and jaw dropping theatre magic, this is a Christmas treat for anyone who loves musicals. You will walk in feeling like a gloomy Banks child from the weather outside and walk out ready to go fly a kite.
Mary Poppins is at the Wales Millennium Centre until 10th January. Spit spot and book your tickets. – https://www.wmc.org.uk/en/whats-on/2025/mary-poppins
