Cheam’s Production of Mary Poppins

When posed with the prospect of directing this magnificent show, my jaw dropped. Instantly Mary’s voice appeared inside my head saying, ‘Close your mouth Mrs Tolman. We are not a cod fish!’ Iconic songs. Memorable quotes. A thrilling adventure that harvests the imagination. It was an instant yes from me and an eagerness to make it ‘Practically Perfect in every way’.  But I knew this could simply turn into ‘A piecrust promise. Easily made, easily broken’. So, I turned to Jane and Michael’s list for a perfect Nanny for inspiration and to keep me on track to create a show that Mary would be proud of.

The choreography days have been a highlight for me during this show as I have been amazed by the casts ‘can do’ approach to the challenge. Although many would say that they are not dancers, I can tell you that after our choreography session creating ‘Jolly Holiday’ many a mindset was changed. With rosy cheeks and beaming smiles all round, it is clear that all were pleased with what they had achieved to create a wonderful and exciting spectacle in the show.

To the cast, thank you for your hard work and dedication. You have brought an element of fun to every rehearsal as well as supporting each other and giving 110% focus. Your enthusiasm and energy for this show has poured out since day one and you have sustained this throughout. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with you all.

What a team to have worked with! This could not have happened without our backstage heroes, including Mrs Billinger and her team of budding MUAs; the technical crew; the Art and DT department; the site team; the IT team. But of course to Mrs Rowe, my right hand woman. I cannot express how much gratitude I have for all that you have helped with. From being present at every rehearsal, leading the backstage team, supporting when someone was having a bit of a wobble (including me!)… you have been Practically Perfect in every way.

– Mrs Tolman | Head of Drama