Mary Poppins, the beloved Disney musical, is set to close in the West End on March 3rd after an impressive 13 year run. The show, which is based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the classic 1964 film, has become a fixture in London’s prestigious West End since opening in 2004. However, despite its popularity and impressive longevity, the time has come for Mary to close her umbrella for the last time.
When did Mary Poppins open in the West End?
Mary Poppins first opened in the West End at the Prince Edward Theatre on December 15, 2004. The original London production starred Laura Michelle Kelly as Mary Poppins and Gavin Lee as Bert. It featured new songs and additional material not included in the 1964 film, with music and lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman, along with George Stiles and Anthony Drewe. The musical was an immediate hit with both critics and audiences.
What has its run been like since opening?
In the 14 years since first opening in the West End, Mary Poppins has seen great success and popularity. The show has run continuously since 2004, moving to the New London Theatre in 2006. It is tied for the 9th longest running musical in West End history. Some key highlights include:
- Over 4,500 performances in the West End
- Seen by over 2 million people
- Multiple Olivier award nominations and wins
- UK tour from 2008-2009
- Special engagements for the 2012 Olympics and royal performances
The show has seen many notable actresses play the title role over the years, including Caroline Sheen, Lisa O’Hare, Zizi Strallen and Charlotte Wakefield. There have also been a variety of well-known British actors playing Bert, including Gavin Lee, David Haig, Gary Wilmot and Charlie Stemp.
Why is it closing in the West End?
After 14 incredible years, the time has simply come for Mary Poppins to close in the West End. The main factors leading to its closure include:
- Expiring rights – The stage rights licensing agreement between Disney and Camelot, the producers of the show, is expiring.
- Declining ticket sales – Recently the show has seen a decline in ticket sales. It has been struggling to compete with newer, flashier West End productions.
- High running costs – As a large scale production, Mary Poppins has very high running costs including royalties, costume maintenance, large cast sizes etc. This also contributed to it no longer being financially viable.
Despite still being a beloved show, after over a decade of success the costs and logistics of keeping it open are no longer feasible. Disney and Camelot have agreed it is time to give the show a fitting farewell.
When will the final West End performance be?
Mary Poppins is scheduled to have its final West End performance on March 3rd, 2019. It will close after an impressive run of over 13 years and more than 4,500 shows.
Will it go on tour or return at a later date?
While there are currently no plans for Mary Poppins to embark on another UK tour, there is always the possibility it could return to the West End in the future. Big West End shows often have return limited engagements or revivals after closing. However Mary Poppins returning is unlikely to happen in the next few years at least.
Where can I see Mary Poppins after it closes?
If you want to see Mary Poppins one last time before it flies away, the show is currently on tour across the UK until November 2018. It is visiting major cities like Edinburgh, Southampton, Hull and Cardiff. You can find tour dates and buy tickets here.
The musical also continues to run in various productions globally including Broadway in the US, Mexico City, Moscow and for upcoming seasons in the Netherlands and Budapest. So while the West End production is closing, you will still be able to see the show in other cities internationally.
What other West End shows are closing soon?
In addition to Mary Poppins, several other high profile West End shows have recently announced they are closing too:
Show | Closing Date |
---|---|
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time | May 19, 2019 |
Aladdin | August 24, 2019 |
42nd Street | January 5, 2019 |
Bananaman The Musical | January 20, 2019 |
Heathers The Musical | November 24, 2018 |
Many of these shows are also struggling with declining ticket sales and the general challenges of keeping a long running production open. So Mary Poppins is not alone in its West End closure.
What are critics and fans saying about the closure?
The news of Mary Poppins closing in the West End has been met with saddened but understanding reactions from fans and theatre critics. Many believe the timing is right to let the show fly off:
“It’s sad news, but I can see why the difficult decision was made. Mary Poppins has brought joy to so many people these past 14 years. It deserves a proper send-off.”
“While I’m gutted to hear this show is closing, I’m glad I got to see it many times over the years. No one can deny it has had an incredible run. Bravo Mary Poppins!”
“The show has clearly run its course. I think 14 years is a good innings for any musical. Mary Poppins forever holds a special place in the West End history books.”
There is certainly sadness amongst devoted fans that have returned to the show many times. However most agree it is the right time for the West End production to close on a high.
Is the Mary Poppins movie musical still popular?
While the stage show is closing, the classic Disney movie musical remains incredibly popular decades after its release. Some signs of its enduring popularity include:
- It is still the 12th highest grossing film of all time adjusted for inflation
- The soundtrack album has sold over 4 million copies to date
- Disney rereleased it theatrically in 2013 to celebrate its 50th anniversary
- A sequel “Mary Poppins Returns” was released in 2018 starring Emily Blunt
- Many of the musical numbers are considered cinematic classics passed down through generations
Mary Poppins’ place in film musical history is rock solid. It seems the story, characters and songs will continue to capture the hearts of new generations for decades to come.
What is the legacy of Mary Poppins in the West End?
While the West End run is ending, Mary Poppins leaves an incredible legacy that has impacted musical theatre:
- Helped secure the prominence of big budget Disney musical adaptations in the West End
- Cemented the trend of movie to stage adaptations becoming increasingly popular
- One of the longest running shows in West End history with over 13 years of performances
- Seen by over 2 million people and introduced new generations to musical theatre
- Featured top British musical theatre talent both onstage and off
- Delivered a feel good family musical that put smiles on faces even during difficult times
Mary Poppins is sure to go down as one of the most cherished and successful West End productions of all time. Its contributions have undoubtedly left a lasting mark on musical theatre in London and beyond.
Conclusion
After delighting audiences for over a decade, Mary Poppins is set to close its umbrella and fly out of the West End on March 3rd 2019. This beloved Disney musical has seen great success since opening in 2004, becoming one of the longest running West End shows ever. However with expiring rights, declining ticket sales and high costs, the difficult decision was made for Mary Poppins to take its final bow. The show will leave a strong legacy, cementing Disney musicals in the West End and introducing new generations to theatre. While it’s sad to say goodbye, fans are gearing up to give Mary the send-off she deserves and thank her for the magical memories.