PART 1: High School Musical ‘Mary Poppins’ Cast Q&A

“In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun.” – Mary Poppins.

Beginning Friday, November 9 and concluding with an afternoon matinee on Sunday, November 11, Lincoln High School will be showcasing its annual high school musical – “Mary Poppins”

In a 3-part series, EllwoodCity.org gathered answers from some musical leads and will showcase dress rehearsal photos. For Part 1 of our series, we interviewed cast members Reece Wilson, Tara Marsh, and Jack Brown.

If you plan to attend the musical, showtimes are Friday, November 9 at 7:30pm, Saturday, November 10 at 2:00pm and 7:30pm, and Sunday, November 11 at 2:00pm. Admission is $13.00 for adults, $11 for senior citizens, children, and students. All seats are $8.00 for the Sunday matinee.  Ticket reservations can be made by calling 724-752-1591 ext. 3002 or emailing ellwoodcitymusical@gmail.com.

Reece Wilson: Bert.

Current Grade?
Senior

How many musicals have you been apart of?
This is my 4th musical

Who do you play in Mary Poppins?
I am playing Bert

Why did you audition for this role?
I auditioned for this role because Bert seemed like a really fun character to play as, and I have danced for a long time so I felt as if that gave me an edge on anyone else auditioning for a part. I would have been fine with any part that I received though, I just love to perform.

Favorite song or scene from the musical?
My favorite song is probably Step in Time, which is the number where Jane and Michael Banks meet all of the chimney sweeps and dance on the rooftops of London. It’s a huge group number with singing and tap dancing, and it’s a complete blast. I also get to fly in it, so watch out for that!

Favorite thing about your character?
My favorite part about playing Bert is that he is basically the narrator, so he really knows everything that happens, and he kinds shows up when everyone least expects it, and he is also funny and obnoxious, which makes it tons of fun.

Has your character taught you anything “life changing” or that will stay with you after the show?
The show has more elements to it than other shows I’ve been in – such as more props, more drops, more songs, more lines, etc. On top of that, I also have school, and during most of the season I had soccer games as well (however soccer is over now). It has really taught me how to organize myself and manage my time, as well as taking care of myself – I’ve run myself pretty ragged, and I really had to learn the hard way that I have to give my body time to rest and watch what I eat, what I’m doing, how much I do, and where I go.

Future plans?
After college, I plan on becoming a Mechanical Engineer at either Penn State or YSU

Tara Marsh: Jane Banks.

Current Grade?
I’m a senior

How many musicals have you been apart of?
This is my 7th show

Your role in Mary Poppins?
I play Jane Banks

Why did you audition for this role?
First, I’m 4’ 10” and she is the most prominent female character in the show besides Mary Poppins herself. She matches my personality as well.

Favorite song or scene from the musical?
Supercalifragilistic by far.

Favorite thing about your character?
She gets to evolve during the show. She starts out mean and resentful, and Mary Poppins teaches her how to be a kid again.

Has your character taught you anything “life changing” or that will stay with you after the show?
Jane has taught me to always keep a sense of wonder in life, never grow too stale or boring! Life’s not meant for that!

Future plans?
I’m going to Geneva College for communication

Jack Brown

Current Grade?
I am in 10th grade.

How many musicals have you been apart of?
This year will be my seventh musical!

Your role in Mary Poppins?
I play George Banks and Northbrook.
    He’ll be playing Northbrook on Friday and for the Saturday Matinee, and he’ll be playing George banks Saturday night and Sunday.

Why did you audition for this role?
I really enjoyed all of the songs sung by George. I also really appreciate the change George goes through throughout the show, and I thought it would be very cool to try out for George and maybe get a chance to show just how much he really changes by the end of the show.

Favorite song or scene from the musical?
I love Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!

Favorite thing about your character?
My favorite thing about my character has to be the songs he sings. They are all so much fun for me to act and sing!

Has your character taught you anything “life changing” or that will stay with you after the show?
My character has taught me to appreciate everything you have, because you might not appreciate what you have until it’s gone.

Future plans?
I plan to go to college, but I have no idea what I will go for!