A thoroughly modern Mary
Vanessa Sears, star of the play Mary Poppins, reflects a classic character that’s relevant today
Not every production of a beloved Disney film gets to undergo a revamp courtesy of Julian Fellowes — Downton Ab
bey’s noted creator, writer and executive producer — but starting Nov. 5, the Young People’s Theatre production of
Mary Poppins will have just that. Set to run until Jan. 6, this oft-hailed classic, known for its imagination and ability to mesmerize and delight any age, promises to combine the Mary who viewers have come to know with one who’s modernly relatable.
Directed by Thom Allison, the cast features Jak Barradell, Jewelle Blackman, Kyle Blair, Shane Carty, Jarret Cody, Jessie Cox, Starr Domingue, Kyle Golemba, Aisha Jarvis, Hailey Lewis, David Lopez, Jade Repeta, Sarah Lynn Strange and Vanessa Sears, who will play Mary Poppins.
We asked the Toronto-based actress about her plans for putting her stamp on the iconic role, how she sees Julie Andrews, who played Mary Poppins in the Disney film, inspiring her performance, and her thoughts on why the world needs a lot more Mary.
You’ve been heavily involved in theatre productions during your career. What are some of your most recent roles?
My first professional show after graduating from Sheridan College was Mirvish’s production of Kinky Boots, where I played Nicola. Starting my career with such a huge production opened a lot of doors for me, and I went on to do my first show with the Young People’s Theatre as Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz and had a wonderful experience, so I’m excited to return for another show. Since then, I’ve worked at Drayton, Obsidian Theatre Company, Musical Stage Company, the Citadel, Theatre Aquarius, and I’m currently finishing my second season at the Shaw Festival in The Magician’s Nephew and Grand Hotel.
Have you always been a Mary Poppins fan?
I loved the movie growing up and saw it so many times with my family. It was also a favourite of my great-aunt Vivienne’s, so we always watched it when we visited her. Seeing Mary and Bert jump into the chalk drawing to dance and sing with cartoons was the most incredible thing, and what kid didn’t try to fly using an umbrella? That film and especially those songs had a big influence on me growing up.
What was the audition experience like for this role?
I got to audition for director Thom Allison and choreographer Kerry Gage, and it was so much fun. I remember leaving the audition with a huge smile because they were both so warm and encouraging; it made me want to work with them that much more. So I was thrilled when I got the call from my agent letting me know that I’d booked the part.
What were your initial thoughts on hearing you were chosen for this role, and how do you plan on putting your mark on it?
I was so happy to hear that I’d been chosen to play Mary Poppins, and I can’t wait to start rehearsals. It’s such a beloved story and the songs are incredibly iconic, so I have a lot to live up to, but I’m ready to bring my own voice and perspective to it. The biggest challenge for me will be finding my own version of the song Practically Perfect. Mary Poppins is a fantastic nanny, and for me that means that her kindness doesn’t come at the expense of her tenacity and fierceness. I’m excited to find that balance with our team.
What components of Julie Andrews’ performance do you plan on incorporating into your performance?
I hope to reflect the joy that Julie Andrews brought to the role. She’s so playful in the film and I think that will continue to inspire my performance.
Since most modern kids seem to be very device-motivated, how do you plan on addressing the issue of holding their attention throughout the play?
I’ve found that young people are the most exciting audience you can have because they’re so intuitive. You have to really capture their imaginations and draw them into the world of the show. If you can get them actively engaged in the story instead of passively watching, then they want to go on that journey (with you) and you don’t have to drag them along. I suppose the answer as an actor is to go even deeper to find the truth.
What are your thoughts on whether the Mary Poppins story is still relevant in today’s world?
Mary Poppins is about bringing a family together with joy and love, while injecting a little magic into the everyday parts of our lives. I think the world needs joy, love and magic now more than ever.
“I hope to reflect the joy that Julie Andrews brought to the role. She’s so playful ... and I think that will ... inspire my performance.” VANESSA SEARS STAR OF MARY POPPINS