“Mary Poppins, practically perfect in every way.” Few would disagree, it seems, for today marks the fourth anniversary of “Mary Poppins'” run on Broadway.
And everyone’s favorite nanny shows no signs of slowing down as she begins her fifth year.
“Mary Poppins” actually debuted on stage – fittingly – in London, where the show ran for three years before mounting a successful U.K. tour. The beloved musical opened on Broadway at the New Amsterdam Theatre on November 16, 2006, where it continues to delight fans of all ages seven times each week.
During its four solid years on Broadway, the show has entertained 2.5 million guests, and has grossed over $202 million to date. The worldwide tally is even more impressive: 6.4 million people have seen the lavish production, which has grossed over $457 million.
As a testament to its strength, “Mary Poppins” placed in the top ten list for highest-grossing, as well as best-attended, shows for the 2009-10 season. And well begun may not be even half done: it is the only show that opened during the 2006 season which is still in performance.
“Mary Poppins” run on Broadway isn’t the only story of longevity; the Broadway show also features the original London production stars, Laura Michelle Kelly as Mary, and Gavin Lee as Bert. (Kelly reprised her role in October 2009; Lee returned to the role of Bert in 2010.)
In addition to performances in London and on Broadway, audiences can catch up to Mary, Bert, and the Banks family in Scheveningen, Holland, and Melbourne, Australia. The show is currently touring the U.S. as well, and new productions are planned for eleven other countries.
