Hey DSM Fans!
The Cast of the National Tour of Mary Poppins and the Round-Up Saloon present
MARY AFTER MIDNIGHT
One Night Only!
This is definitely a grown-ups night out event, but you can bet that this will be a fun night!
All proceeds go to benefit Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS
Check out the picture below for full details.
Hope to see you there!
-DSM Amanda
Hey DSM and MARY POPPINS fans!
Dallas is showing the love for MARY POPPINS! Check out all of these great interviews, reviews, and videos below! More to come, so check back soon!
VIDEOS
NEW VIDEO: Ron Corning Becomes Bert
WFAA – Bert and Mary perform on Good Morning Texas
CBS 11’s Teresa Frosini Becomes Mary Poppins
Red Carpet Interviews – Opening Night
More videos to come!
REVIEWS
Reviewed by Sten-Erik Armitage, Associate Critic for John Garcia’s THE COLUMN – click here for the review
“Theater Review: “Mary Poppins” Is (Almost) Practically Perfect!” on Red Carpet Crash – click here for the review
“Mary Poppins at Fair Park: Practically Perfect” By Keri Mitchell – click here for the review
INTERVIEWS
“Diabetes doesn’t slow down Dallas-bound ‘Mary Poppins’ star Madeline Trumble” by Nancy Churnin – click here for the interview
“Mary Poppins Interview with Karen Murphy” by Gadi Elkon with Pearl Snap Discount – click here for the interview
More interviews to come!
Saw something that we didn’t mention? Let us know!
Hope you can make it to see MARY POPPINS – now on stage through Saturday evening!
-DSM Amanda
Media Contact: Jo Ann Holt
joannholt@gmail.com
Tickets for MARY POPPINS are NOW ON SALE in Dallas, Texas!
Performances begin March 20th for 16 performances only
at the Music Hall at Fair Park
Dallas, TX: Dallas Summer Musicals and producers Thomas Schumacher of Disney Theatrical Productions and Cameron Mackintosh announced that tickets for the long-awaited production of MARY POPPINS are on sale now. Dallas’ eagerly awaited stage production will begin performances at the Music Hall at Fair Park March 20 for a limited engagement of 16 performances, through Saturday, March 30. The opening night is Wednesday, March 20 at 7:30 p.m.
With seven productions produced on three continents, MARY POPPINS is one of the biggest stage musical successes to emerge from London or New York in recent years. Worldwide to date, the show has grossed over $812 million and welcomed more than 11 million guests. The musical is the winner of 44 major theatre awards around the globe, including Tony®, Olivier, Helpmann and Evening Standard awards.
The entire original creative team has reunited to bring this magical story of the world’s most famous nanny to audiences around North America. The MARY POPPINS North American Tour began performances on March 25, 2009 and has played to more than two and a half million delighted theatergoers in over 60 cities to date.
MARY POPPINS, a co-production of Disney and Cameron Mackintosh, opened on Broadway on November 16, 2006. Based on P.L. Travers’ cherished stories and the classic 1964 Walt Disney film, MARY POPPINS the stage play features the Academy Award®-winning music and lyrics of Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman. The stage production has been created, in collaboration with Cameron Mackintosh, by Academy Award®-winning screenwriter Julian Fellowes, who has written the book, and the Olivier Award-winning team of George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, who have composed new songs and additional music and lyrics.
Olivier Award-winning director Richard Eyre leads the award-winning creative team, with co-direction and choreography by Tony® and Olivier Award winner Matthew Bourne. MARY POPPINS features set and costume design by TonyÒ Award winner Bob Crowley, co-choreography by Olivier Award winner Stephen Mear, lighting design by Howard Harrison, orchestrations by William David Brohn, and music supervision by David Caddick. The tour’s creative team includes Tour Director Anthony Lyn, Associate Choreographer Geoffrey Garrett, and Music Director Daniel Bowling.
MARY POPPINS received its worldwide premiere at the Prince Edward Theatre in the West End in December 2004. Following its successful three-year London run, the production launched an acclaimed U.K. tour.
The Broadway production of MARY POPPINS officially opened on November 16, 2006, recouping its initial Broadway investment within 52 weeks of its premiere. MARY POPPINS is the only show from the 2006-2007 theatrical season still running.
The MARY POPPINS North American tour has garnered continuous critical praise and achieved box office success since its launch in Chicago in March 2009.
The Australian production of MARY POPPINS opened to critical acclaim in Melbourne in July 2010 where it achieved an unprecedented 100% of Gross Box Office. For its seasons in Perth and Brisbane the advance sales smashed all previous theatrical records.
Having played to enormous success in London, a UK tour, Holland, and Australia, MARY POPPINS can currently be seen on Broadway, the North American tour, in Auckland, New Zealand and in Mexico City. Licensed productions of MARY POPPINS have also been mounted in Hungary, Estonia, Finland, Netherlands, Denmark and the Czech Republic.
In Dallas, MARY POPPINS will play Wednesday through Sunday the first week at 7:30 p.m., with Thursday, Saturday and Sunday matinees at 1:30 p.m. Performances the second week will be Monday-Saturday at 7:30 p.m. with matinees at 1:30 p.m. Thursday and Saturday. Ticket prices start as low as $15. Special Ticket Packages are available at select performances, and include premium seating and a complimentary souvenir program. Tickets are available at the DSM Box Office, 5959 Royal Lane, and all Ticketmaster outlets, or online at www.ticketmaster.com. Orders for groups of 15 or more may be placed by calling 214-426-GROUP.
Student Rush tickets are available beginning one hour before each performance at the Music Hall Box Office (6:30 p.m. for evening performances and 12:30 p.m. for matinee performances). The $25 tickets are best available at time of purchase, first come first served; students should present their valid student I.D. at time of purchase for a maximum of two tickets. Valid on select performance only; follow Dallas Summer Musicals Facebook page for the alert.
The Dallas engagement of MARY POPPINS is presented by Dallas Summer Musicals.
Dallas Summer Musicals’ 73rd Season of the Best of Broadway continues with the following shows:
WICKED, THE UNTOLD STORY OF THE WITCHES OF OZ, April 10-May 5. So much happened before Dorothy dropped in! Variety calls WICKED “a cultural phenomenon,” and it has broken box office records and sold out every time it has played Dallas. Winner of 35 major awards, including a Grammy® and three Tony® Awards, WICKED is “Broadway’s biggest blockbuster,” according to The New York Times.
PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT, THE MUSICAL, May 14-26. Presenting the most outrageously fun Broadway musical, a spectacular show that tells the uplifting story of a trio of friends on a road trip of a lifetime. Hopping aboard a battered old bus in search of love and friendship in the middle of the Australian Outback, they end up finding more than they could ever have dreamed. An international hit with over 500 dazzling, Tony® Award-winning costumes, PRISCILLA features a hit parade of dance-floor favorites including “It’s Raining Men,” “Finally” and “I Will Survive.”
SISTER ACT, A DIVINE MUSICAL COMEDY, June 4-16. Broadway’s feel-amazing musical comedy smash, called by The New York Post “Ridiculously Fun,” has audiences jumping to their feet in total agreement. Featuring original music by 8-time Oscar® winner Alan Menken (Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Little Shop of Horrors), SISTER ACT tells the story of Deloris Van Cartier, a wannabe diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a crime and the cops hide her in the last place anyone would think to look—a convent.
FLASHDANCE, THE MUSICAL, June 25-July 7. The pop-culture phenomenon and runaway international success is now live on stage. It all started with a dream. To be bigger. To burn brighter. To dance harder. Directed and choreographed by Sergio Trujillo (Jersey Boys, Memphis, The Addams Family), this new musical features a score of smash hits including The Academy Award® winning title track “Flashdance – What a Feeling,” “Maniac,” “I Love Rock & Roll,” and 16 new original songs.
Disney presents THE LION KING, October 2-20, 2013. Experience the phenomenon of Disney’s THE LION KING, Broadway’s Landmark Musical. Marvel at the breathtaking spectacle of animals brought to life by award-winning director Julie Taymor, whose visual images for this show you’ll remember forever. Thrill to the pulsating rhythms of the African Pridelands and an unforgettable score, including Elton John and Tim Rice’s Oscar-winning song “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” and “Circle of Life.”
DSM will continue its 73-year tradition of setting the standard in musical theatre entertainment as their 2014 season begins in December, 2013, with Irving Berlin’s WHITE CHRISTMAS at the Music Hall.
Season sponsors and partners for Dallas Summer Musicals are The Dallas Morning News, Metro PCS, WFAA TV Channel 8, American Airlines, The Original Cupcakery, the Frontiers of Flight Museum and Texas Instruments.
Dallas Summer Musicals, Inc. (DSM) is the preeminent non-profit presenter of Broadway theatre in North Texas. DSM produces, presents and promotes excellence in live musical theatre with year-round performances for diverse audiences of all ages, impacting the lives of children and families through community outreach and education, and enriching the cultural landscape of Dallas/Fort Worth, North Texas and the Southwest Region.
DSM is the largest producer and presenter of live theatrical entertainment in the Southwest, the second oldest summer theatre organization in the United States, and the fourth largest non-profit theatre company. In addition to presenting national Broadway tours, DSM also produces shows on Broadway, presents and tours productions, and is involved in developing new works. Dallas Summer Musicals’ affiliates include DSM Management Group, Inc. (DSMMGI), which manages the Music Hall at Fair Park.
For more information about Dallas Summer Musicals, please call (214) 421-5678 or visit the website at www.dallassummermusicals.org.
# # #
For media information about any of the individual shows or the Dallas Summer Musicals, and for videotape, photos, or reviewer’s passes, please call Jo Ann Holt at 214-413-3977, or email joannholt@gmail.com.
DALLAS SUMMER MUSICALS ANNOUNCES 2013 SEASON
OF THE BEST OF BROADWAY AT THE MUSIC HALL AT FAIR PARK
Dallas Summer Musicals, Inc. (DSM) has announced their 73rd season of shows, with seven touring Broadway productions coming to the Music Hall at Fair Park. DSM has been entertaining North Texas audiences with the finest in professional live theatrical entertainment since 1941.
In announcing the new season, Michael A. Jenkins, President and Managing Director of Dallas Summer Musicals, said, “Our 73rd season provides a Destination to unparalleled entertainment with the unprecedented number of three Blockbuster hit shows within the season schedule, in which all shows are direct from Broadway. With DSM’s affordable prices, this means our subscribers will enjoy an unbeatable entertainment value in 2013.”
Dallas Summer Musicals, Inc. (DSM) is the preeminent non-profit presenter of Broadway theatre in North Texas. DSM produces, presents and promotes excellence in live musical theatre with year-round performances for diverse audiences of all ages, impacting the lives of children and families through community outreach and education, and enriching the cultural landscape of Dallas/Fort Worth, North Texas and the Southwest Region.
DSM is the largest producer and presenter of live theatrical entertainment in the Southwest, the second oldest summer theatre organization in the United States, and the fourth largest non-profit theatre company. In addition to presenting national Broadway tours, DSM also produces shows on Broadway, presents and tours productions, and is involved in developing new works. Dallas Summer Musicals’ affiliates include DSM Management Group, Inc. (DSMMGI), which manages the Music Hall at Fair Park.
DSM 2013 SEASON AT THE MUSIC HALL AT FAIR PARK
CATCH ME IF YOU CAN, February 12-24, 2013. Based on the hit Dreamworks Film and the incredible true story that inspired it, Catch Me If You Can is the high-flying, splashy new Broadway musical that tells the story of Frank W. Abagnale, Jr., a teenager who runs away from home in search of the glamorous life. With nothing more than his boyish charm, a big imagination and millions of dollars in forged checks, Frank successfully poses as a pilot, a doctor and a lawyer—living the high life and winning the girl of his dreams. But when Frank’s lies catch the attention of FBI agent Carl Hanratty, Carl chases Frank to the end—and finds something he never expected. A big-hearted musical adventure based on an astonishing real-life story of being young, in love, and in deep, deep trouble.
Disney and CAMERON MACKINTOSH present MARY POPPINS, March 20-30, 2013. Returning to Dallas for two weeks only, the “roof-raising, toe-tapping, high-flying extravaganza!” as proclaimed by the New York Daily News, features an irresistible story and unforgettable songs from one of the most popular Disney films of all time. With brand-new breathtaking dance numbers and spectacular stage-craft, MARY POPPINS is everything you could ever want in a hit Broadway show. Get swept up in the fun of this high-flying musical the New York Post gave four out of four stars, calling it “a certifiable super hit!”
WICKED, THE UNTOLD STORY OF THE WITCHES OF OZ, April 10-May 5, 2013. So much happened before Dorothy dropped in! Variety calls WICKED “a cultural phenomenon,” and it has broken box office records and sold out every time it has played Dallas. Winner of 35 major awards, including a Grammy® and three Tony® Awards, WICKED is “Broadway’s biggest blockbuster,” according to The New York Times. Long before that girl from Kansas arrives in Munchkinland, two girls meet in the land of Oz. One—born with emerald green skin—is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. How these two grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch makes for “the most complete—and completely satisfying—new musical in a long time.” (USA Today).
PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT, THE MUSICAL, May 14-26, 2013. Presenting the most outrageously fun Broadway musical, a spectacular show that tells the uplifting story of a trio of friends on a road trip of a lifetime. Hopping aboard a battered old bus in search of love and friendship in the middle of the Australian Outback, they end up finding more than they could ever have dreamed. An international hit with over 500 dazzling, Tony® Award-winning costumes, PRISCILLA features a hit parade of dance-floor favorites including “It’s Raining Men,” “Finally” and “I Will Survive.” The Hollywood Reporter calls PRISCILLA “funny and fabulous! Joyous entertainment with eye-popping visuals and unexpected heart!”
SISTER ACT, A DIVINE MUSICAL COMEDY, June 4-16, 2013. Broadway’s feel-amazing musical comedy smash, called by The New York Post “Ridiculously Fun,” has audiences jumping to their feet in total agreement. Featuring original music by 8-time Oscar® winner Alan Menken (Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Little Shop of Horrors), SISTER ACT tells the story of Deloris Van Cartier, a wannabe diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a crime and the cops hide her in the last place anyone would think to look—a convent. Under the suspicious watch of Mother Superior, Deloris helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own. A sparkling tribute to the universal power of friendship, SISTER ACT is reason to rejoice.
FLASHDANCE, THE MUSICAL, June 25-July 7, 2013. The pop-culture phenomenon and runaway international success is now live on stage. It all started with a dream. To be bigger. To burn brighter. To dance harder. Directed and choreographed by Sergio Trujillo (Jersey Boys, Memphis, The Addams Family), this new musical features a score of smash hits including The Academy Award® winning title track “Flashdance – What a Feeling,” “Maniac,” “I Love Rock & Roll,” and 16 new original songs. Experience the magic all over again, as FLASHDANCE leaves you begging for more.
Disney presents THE LION KING, October 2-20, 2013. Experience the phenomenon of Disney’s THE LION KING, Broadway’s Landmark Musical. Marvel at the breathtaking spectacle of animals brought to life by award-winning director Julie Taymor, whose visual images for this show you’ll remember forever. Thrill to the pulsating rhythms of the African Pridelands and an unforgettable score, including Elton John and Tim Rice’s Oscar-winning song “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” and “Circle of Life.” Let your imagination run wild at the Tony Award-winning Broadway sensation Newsweek calls “a landmark event in entertainment.” THE LION KING will be the 2013 State Fair of Texas musical.
Season tickets, priced from $125-$710, go on sale Tuesday, August 28 at The Box Office, 5959 Royal Lane, #542 in Dallas. Subscribers may order by mail or in person at The Box Office, by phoning 214-346-3300, by faxing 214-691-7386, or online at www.dallassummermusicals.org. For groups, please call 214-426-GROUP.
Season subscribers enjoy such benefits as first opportunity to get the best seats available for the season, plus huge savings over single ticket prices and easy payment plans, lost ticket replacement, ticket exchange privileges and a 20% discount on all DSM logo merchandise. Plus, season subscribers have first option on their seats for the following season, and can save significant amounts over the cost of single tickets.
DSM will continue its 73-year tradition of bringing the Best of Broadway to North Texas, setting the standard in musical theatre entertainment. DSM’s 2014 season will begin in December, 2013, with Irving Berlin’s WHITE CHRISTMAS at the Music Hall.
Season sponsors for Dallas Summer Musicals are The Dallas Morning News, Metro PCS, WFAA TV Channel 8, American Airlines, and Texas Instruments.
As a nonprofit organization, DSM relies on a variety of funding sources to bring the Best of Broadway to Dallas at affordable ticket prices, as well as to preserve the beautiful historic theater, educate young audiences and create important community programs. DSM’s Seats for Kids program provides a meaningful arts education experience to thousands of low income, at-risk and special needs children. DSM provides positive incentives for youth that are at risk for gang membership through the Stage Right program. In addition, the Dallas Summer Musicals Academy of Performing Arts offers professional theater arts training and scholarships to talented students in need. Ticket sales alone do not sustain these endeavors. Only support from committed businesses, foundations and individuals make these programs possible.
For more information about Dallas Summer Musicals, please call (214) 421-5678 or visit the website at www.dallassummermusicals.org
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For media information about any of the individual shows or the Dallas Summer Musicals, and for videotape, photos, or reviewer’s passes, please call Jo Ann Holt at 214-413-3977, or email joannholt@gmail.com.
Dallas Summer Musicals is pleased to announce our 73rd Season!
Let the 2013 Season at Dallas Summer Musicals be Your Passport to Broadway as we take you on a journey!
Now announcing the 2013 DSM Season! CATCH ME IF YOU CAN, MARY POPPINS, WICKED, PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT, SISTER ACT, FLASHDANCE, and THE LION KING
2013 Season Tickets are ON SALE NOW! Join us for the season and enjoy the best Broadway shows, in the best seats, at the best price! See 7 shows for as low as $125 and save $85 on single ticket prices!
The 2013 DSM Season is 7 Broadway touring shows:
Catch Me If You Can – February 12 – 24, 2013 – Music Hall at Fair Park
Mary Poppins – March 20 – 30, 2013 – Music Hall at Fair Park
Wicked – April 10 – May 5, 2013 – Music Hall at Fair Park
Priscilla, Queen of the Desert – May 14 – 26, 2013 – Music Hall at Fair Park
Sister Act – June 4 – 16, 2013 – Music Hall at Fair Park
Flashdance – June 25 – July 7, 2013 – Music Hall at Fair Park
The Lion King – October 2 – 20, 2013 – Music Hall at Fair Park
Check out this video to get a sneak peek of the 2013 Season:
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=itS3v-N9zfc?rel=0]
Season tickets are only available for purchase for a limited time before the season starts and seats are assigned based on the date you place your order. Don’t miss the opportunity to purchase DSM season tickets! Click here to get more info and to buy now!
Make sure you like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, and follow us on this blog (at the top on the right – just enter your e-mail address) to get the latest news on our 2013 Season, behind the scenes facts, special contests, and more throughout the season!
Feel free to leave your comments below!
We look forward to seeing you soon at the 2013 DSM Season!
-DSM Amanda
If I could, I would try to explain exactly how much people we’re blown out of the water by MARY POPPINS… then I though, “why not simply let the people themselves tell everyone?”
“Mary Poppins was a great experience. The set and special effects were unbelievable. The cast was outstanding. It was an unforgettable experience.”
“This being my first time to see the stage musical, I was unsure what to expect. The story was unique! The sets were amazing! The acting, dancing, and singing were phenomenal! I truly felt transported to another world!”
“Mary Poppins was an unforgettable experience. The performance was well polished, enchanting, and deserving of a standing ovation! I enjoyed every moment!”
“Took my daughter for a birthday gift. It was amazing, wonderful and magical all wrapped up in one. Ashley Brown was beyond good as Mary Poppins. My daughter and I haven’t stopped singing the songs since we stood up to go home!!”
“Quite possibly the best musical I have seen in my life, and I have seen quite a few! The costumes, sets and special effects drew me right in, and the voices were consistently beautiful, even the children’s voices. Altogether a wonderful evening’s entertainment.”
“This was a truly magical production! We’ve seen many great musicals over the years — this was one of our absolute favorites. If you have children (or even if you don’t), do not miss this show. Absolutely magical.”
“The whole production of Mary Poppins was outstanding. My husband and I had seats way over on the right side of the theater but could still enjoy everything.All the preformers had wonderful voices, and the children were excepttional. I would love to see it again. It was fun, fun , fun”
“I heard Mary Poppins was coming to DSM and it’s my mother’s favorite movie! I bought the tickets and surprised her with the show. The story line was a bit different from the movie but moved along well. All the important songs were there and sung beautifully! Great, gorgeous cast! ”
“Amazing sets and dancing!”
“We were blown away by the quality and creativity in every area–singing, acting, choreography, lighting, stage and props, costumes, backdrops, special effects…..each area was a delight in its own. After many, many musicals, this was simple the best.”
“WOW! Great show with outstanding sets and acting! The singing was beautiful!”
“This was a wonderfully orchestrated event with talent that surpasses most that I have seen in the past. Mary Poppins has an amazing resemblance to Julie Andrews vocally. This is a wonderful event for children and adults alike.”
“Slightly different than the movie – and in a very good way. The house opens up like a doll-house – awesome. The choreography for Supercalif…. and Step in Time was delightful. Mary Poppins and Bert are amazing performers and so well supported by the rest of the cast. And, i think i was present with the most participatory Dallas audience ever. They clapped along, sang, sighed, and it was all wonderful.”
“Wonderful musical. Took 5 yr old grandson, maybe a little too young, but by the time it was over, he was captivated and loved it. Casting is perfect, those kids amazing. Such a fun, and uplifting story about the importance of family.”
“It was Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The special effects were stunning.”
“Must see! Wonderful acting and singing! Amazing sets, costumes and lighting. Funny! And some great special tricks! Seen it twice, would go again if I could!”
“Took the whole family and everyone loved it. They did a great job of doing all the favorite songs from the movie, and they also added new elements that made it exciting and fresh.”
“Absolutely amazing! We thoroughly enjoyed every single minute!”
“I picked this play due to the fact that my wife loves Disney cartoons. I also did like Mary Poppins growing up as a kid. It was a great play from start to finish. I am still trying to figure out how they got all those items in her bag.”
“The singing and dancing was great. There were two favorite moments, the items that she pulled out of her bag and the end where she went up through the crowd and up through the whole in the ceiling. GREAT EXIT!!!!!.”
“The tickets were purchased for daughter, granddaughters and great granddaughter and was a hit. The ages ranged from 4year old to 50 years old and a wonderful time was had by all. ”
“I took my husband, my son (6months old), my two daughters 3 1/2 yrs., and 2 yrs. old, and it was an absolute THRILL for all of us!!! We are all fans of the movie, but were excited to see them in person. What a wonderful job. The entire experience was great, the ushers were wonderful, the vendors, everyone! Thank you for a wonderful experience. WE will be back next year for sure!!!”
“Mary Poppins was the most fun I have had in a long time. What a fun event to go see with family and friends of all ages. I am ready to go see it again!”
“The whole cast and crew did an amazing job of bringing one of my favorite musicals to the stage. As a former actor and techie, I was left questioning myself how some of the technical tricks were done. Regardless, this show–even on stage is full of mystery and magic. GREAT JOB TO EVERYONE.”
“Don’t miss this fabulous musical. It was wonderful. Can’t wait for Little House on the Prairie with Melissa Gilbert playing Ma coming next May.”
“We’ve seen several shows this season at the DSM, but this by far was the best! It was truly magical!”
“Starting with very comfortable seats to outstanding sound and fantastic performances by each of the cast member this show is certainly a can’t miss!”
“The show was amazing, I loved all the music and new spin on the movie scenes. Mary Poppins is a must see for anyone who loves musicals.”
“I wasn’t sure what to expect when I booked our tickets. Knew the Disney Movie and all the songs – and went for an evening of entertainment. What we got was so much more! Songs. Dancing. Glorious voices. Sets that knocked my socks off and dazzled me with every set change and special effects. The entire evening was magic! Disney is the master of production.”
“This was one of the best performances I’ve ever been too. The talent of the performers and special effects were top notch. It’s a great family event that deserves to be seen by the masses. I would recomend it to anyone and everyone. If you’ve seen Disney’s Mary Poppins, you must see this musical. It will take you more in depth into the world of Mary Poppins. It is a must see!”
“This was a great show. I had read so much about Mary flying over the audience, but nothing was said about the tap dance around the room by the Sweep. That was absolutely amazing. How did you do it. I am so grateful for the 4 for $99 special which enabled me to purchase tickets. My granddaughter, daughter-in-law, and myself really enjoyed it. Thank you!”
Jo Ann Holt, Publicist
joannholt[at]gmail.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 24, 2009
CASTING ANNOUNCED FOR
Disney and Cameron Mackintosh present
MARY POPPINS
FEATURING ORIGINAL BROADWAY STARS
ASHLEY BROWN & GAVIN LEE
DALLAS SUMMER MUSICALS’ LIMITED PREMIERE ENGAGEMENT BEGINS THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2009
AT THE MUSIC HALL AT FAIR PARK
Dallas, TX…Producers Cameron Mackintosh and Thomas Schumacher are pleased to announce full casting for the Dallas Summer Musicals engagement of MARY POPPINS. Dallas’ most eagerly anticipated stage production will begin performances at the Music Hall at Fair Park on Thursday, September 24, 2009 for a limited engagement of four weeks through Sunday, October 18. The official opening night is Friday, September 25, 2009 at 8 p.m.
The entire creative team has reunited to bring this magical story of the word’s most famous nanny to audiences across North America. Original Broadway stars, Ashley Brown and Gavin Lee, will reprise their roles as “Mary Poppins” and “Bert” respectively.
For her portrayal of “Mary Poppins,” Ashley Brown received Drama League®, Drama Desk® and Outer Critic Circle® nominations for Best Actress. Upon graduating from the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, Ms. Brown landed a leading role in the touring production of Disney’s On the Record. Soon after she was offered the chance to star in Beauty and the Beast and made her Broadway debut as “Belle” in September 2005. Upcoming projects include concerts with Marvin Hamlisch, the New York Philharmonic and a debut album of American Songbook standards.
Gavin Lee made his Broadway debut with MARY POPPINS after originating the role of “Bert” in the world premiere production in London’s West End. Lee received critical acclaim for his portrayal of “Bert,” both in NY and London, and was the recipient of the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Featured Actor. Lee also received Tonyâ, Outer Critic Circle® and Olivier Award® nominations for Best Actor. His London theatre credits include Peggy Sue Got Married, Contact, Oklahoma!, Sondheim’s Saturday Night, Crazy For You, and Me and My Girl. In addition, he has appeared in the recent film adaptation of The Phantom of the Opera and Beyond the Sea.
Joining Brown and Lee will be Karl Kenzler as “George Banks.” Mr. Kenzler’s Broadway credits include Twelve Angry Men, The Caretaker, Dinner At Eight and The Heiress. “Winifred Banks” will be played by Megan Osterhaus, who comes straight from the Broadway company of Mary Poppins. Her other stage credits include Mamma Mia, Martin Guerre, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Children Of Eden, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Gypsy.
Valerie Boyle will portray “Mrs. Brill.” Ms. Boyle has been seen in a wide variety of leading roles in Canada and Europe including Sophie Tucker, Shirley Valentine and Nunsense. Andrew Keenan-Bolger, who will play “Robertson Ay”, has previously appeared on Broadway in Seussical, Beauty and the Beast and A Christmas Carol and in the National Tours of Spelling Bee, The Grinch and Ragtime.
Ellen Harvey will play “Miss Andrew.” Ms. Harvey’s Broadway credits include The Music Man and Thou Shalt Not and she has appeared in the National Tours of Disney’s High School Musical, Mamma Mia, Doctor Dolittle, and Sunset Boulevard. “The Bird Woman” will be played by Mary VanArsdel, who has appeared in productions of Cole Porter’s Paris, Mass, Camelot (with Jeremy Irons), 110 In the Shade, and Gypsy. “Admiral Boom” will be portrayed by Mike O’Carroll, a stage veteran whose past credits include White Christmas, Fiddler on the Roof, Showboat, Will Rogers Follies, Henry IV, Inherit the Wind, and Ragtime.
Performances in the role of “Jane Banks” will be alternated between Kelsey Fowler and Aida Neitenbach. Performances in the role of “Michael Banks” will be alternated between Bryce Baldwin and Zach Rand.
Rounding out the cast are Tia Altinay, Carol Angeli, Gail Bennett, Kiara Bennett, Brandon Bieber, Troy Edward Bowles, Elizabeth Broadhurst, Michael Gerhart, Geoffrey Goldberg, Emily Harvey, Tiffany Howard, Kelly Jacobs, Wendy James, Justin Keyes, Sam Kiernan, Brian Letendre, Laird Mackintosh, Vanessa McMahan, Koh Mochizuki, Shua Potter, Dominic Roberts, Nick Sanchez, Q. Smith, Jesse Swimm and Tom Souhrada.
MARY POPPINS, a co-production by Disney and Cameron Mackintosh, opened on Broadway on November 16, 2006. Based on P.L. Travers’ cherished stories and the classic 1964 Walt Disney film, MARY POPPINS features the Academy Award®-winning music and lyrics of Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman. The stage production has been created, in collaboration with Cameron Mackintosh, by Academy Award®-winning screenwriter Julian Fellowes, who has written the book, and the Olivier Award-winning team of George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, who have composed new songs and additional music and lyrics.
Olivier Award-winning director Richard Eyre leads the award-winning creative team, with co-direction and choreography by Tony® and Olivier Award winner Matthew Bourne. MARY POPPINS features set and costume design by TonyÒ Award winner Bob Crowley, co-choreography by Olivier Award winner Stephen Mear, lighting design by Howard Harrison, orchestrations by William David Brohn, and music supervision by David Caddick. The tour’s creative team includes Director Anthony Lyn, Associate Choreographer Geoffrey Garrett, and Music Director James Dodgson.
Consistently among the top-grossing shows on Broadway, MARY POPPINS continues in its 3rd smash year at the New Amsterdam Theatre and recently celebrated its 1000th performance – a milestone reached by only a rare few number of shows in Broadway history. The Broadway production has grossed over $132 million to date, and has been seen by over 1.6M theatergoers. Simultaneously, the show’s popularity grows around the globe. Following a successful three year run (December 2004 – January 2008) at the Prince Edward Theatre on London’s West End, a U.K. tour of MARY POPPINS commenced in summer 2008 and concluded its acclaimed run in Cardiff in April 2009. The Australian debut of MARY POPPINS is planned for next year. An open-ended run of MARY POPPINS will take residence at the Circus Theatre in Scheveningen, Holland, outside of Amsterdam. The show will open in April 2010 at the Circus Theatre following TARZAN’S record setting run there. MARY POPPINS will be produced in Holland by Stage Entertainment in association with Disney and Cameron Mackintosh.
In Dallas, MARY POPPINS will play Tuesday through Saturday evenings at 8 p.m. and Saturday and selected Thursday matinees at 2 p.m. Sunday performances will be at 1:30 and 7 p.m. Ticket prices range from $25 to $85. Special VIP Producers Circle Ticket Packages are available for $135 at select performances, and include premium seating and a complimentary souvenir program. Tickets are available at The Box Office, 542 Preston Royal Shopping Center in Dallas, all Ticketmaster outlets, and online at www.ticketmaster.com. To charge tickets, call 214-631-ARTS (2787). For groups of 15 or more, call 214-426-GROUP.
The Dallas engagement of MARY POPPINS is presented by arrangement with Dallas Summer Musicals, presented by Comerica Bank, and is a subscription offering of their 2009 season
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National Press Representative: Local Press Representative:
Scott A. Hemerling, Jo Ann Holt
New Amsterdam Theatre Music Hall at Fair Park
214 West 42nd Street 909 First Avenue
New York, New York 10036 Dallas, TX 75210
Telephone: 212.703.1080 469-363-7271
Facsimile: 954.212.2483 email joannholt@gmail.com
Sing along to Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious in the annual Walt Disney World Christmas Parade. MARY POPPINS National Tour stars Ashley Brown and Gavin Lee will perform the classic tongue-twister on Main Street, U.S.A. along with hundreds of dancers.
Here are some interesting fun facts regarding our appearance:
• Ashley and Gavin will be joined by Neil McCaffrey (“Michael Banks”), Cassady Leonard (“Jane Banks”), 20 “cast members” who perform at the Walt Disney World Resort, AND 450 kids from dance groups representing 35 states—and even Canada.
• The group that traveled the furthest was from Washington state and they traveled over 3000 miles.
• They rehearsed separately for over two months and practiced together for over 15 hours onsite.
• It was not until the morning of the Christmas Show taping that all 465 performers (MP cast, WDW cast, and 450 Cheer kids) actually danced together for the first time!
• Our segment was the largest production ever staged in the 25 year history of the parade broadcast!
• The production filled the entire length of Main Street U.S.A.–360 feet!!
The Parade will also feature performances by Miley Cyrus (“Hannah Montana”), the Jonas Brothers and Corbin Bleu (“High School Musical”).
Gather the family, and tune in to ABC on Thursday, December 25 at 10am EST/9am CST (check local listings).
With sugarplum thoughts and wishes…