Practically perfect production
Flying into OHS this winter is the classic tale and musical Mary Poppins. Mary Poppins is about a family in London in search of the perfect nanny for their two children and, no one seems to have been able to satisfy the extremely high standards that George has put in place.
Due to all of the snow days, everyone is a bit behind on things, but cast and crew have persevered and worked hard to perfect the intricacies of the show. Throughout the cast and crew, there is vast excitement to see the whole show come together.
Eitrheim said, “There is a lot of stuff to do for this show, there are lots of scenes and lots of technical things involved. There are lots of new things to figure out and it’s going to be a busy next few weeks. My favorite part is always the same. I always enjoy working with the students and seeing the cast comradery be built up.” This is an extremely unique show that has features that have not been used here before.
Izzy Melgaard is playing the lead actress as character Mary Poppins. Melgaard said, My favorite part is seeing all the pieces aligning and coming together to make something beautiful.” As with every production, there are ups and downs. Melgaard said, “Finding my version of Mary has been a challenge. People know the character from the classic Julie Andrews and the new Emily Blunt versions of the character. I wanted to combine them and add my own spin so Mary is still recognizable but unique.” Lead actor Evan Peterson playing the charismatic and charming Bert. Peterson said, “My favorite part about Mary Poppins is the amazing cast! It is such a supportive, kind, and fun group of people to work with! They have made this show such a fun time!”
As for the set of this show, many factors have gone into the design. Set designer, Doc Grauberger said, “When designing any set, the first thing to do is read the script to see how many different locations appear throughout the show. Then you need to figure out what can be portrayed minimally or needs to be more detailed and how everything will fit on stage. The time period is also very important. Things like architecture, appliances, rooftops, etc. Authenticity is very important.” the crew are determined to finish the set well and present the best possible show to all audiences. The main feature piece is a duo leveled house that opens like a dollhouse.
There are many unique features of this show ranging from set pieces to characters to technical pieces. Eitrheim said, “This show is going to do something I have never done here before. We are going to fly onstage. It is an overall great show and one of those things you can enjoy with the whole family.” The cast is very excited to perform and a lot of hard work and dedication has gone into every rehearsal. The show will be running two weekends, and opening night will be on Thursday, Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. Shows following that will be on Feb. 22, at 7 p.m., Feb 23 at 3 p.m. and Feb 24 at 1:30 p.m. for the first weekend and Feb. 28, March 1 and 2 at 7 p.m. the second weekend. Tickets are available at the door or online here. Tickets are $5 for students and $7 for adults. Activity tickets are accepted.
Elyssa Munch is a senior at OHS. She enjoys going ice skating, long walks, rollerblading, painting and listening to music. Munch works at the fast-food...