UD Presents MARY POPPINS This Summer

Upper Darby Summer Stage proudly presents its crown jewel of the 40th season, the Mainstage production, "Disney's Mary Poppins" on July 31 and August 1, 7 and 8 at the Upper Darby Performing Arts Center.

The full-length production with live orchestra is full of moments that audience members will recognize from the famous Disney film. Featuring more adventures from the books of P.L Travers, the stage show presents a new take on the story. Audiences should expect to enjoy the familiarity of the subject matter, but also be wowed by exciting new developments in the plot. With magic, flying and every form of dance imaginable, the Mainstage production will be an experience audiences won't forget soon.

Performances will take place on July 31, August 1, 7 and 8 at 7:30 p.m. with matinee performances on August 1 and 8 at 1:30 p.m. Tickets are $10-16 and may be purchased online at www.udpac.org or by calling the box office: 610.622.1189. All shows take place at the Upper Darby Performing Arts Center, 601 N. Lansdowne Ave., Drexel Hill, PA. The facility is wheelchair accessible and parking is free. The show runs approximately two and a half hours with intermission and is recommended for ages eight and up.

The mysterious narrator, Bert (Ronnie Keller of Conshohocken) introduces us to the troubled Banks family and while young Jane (Lucy Criscuolo of Rosemont) and Michael (Dylan Rooney of Springfield) have sent many a nanny packing before, Mary Poppins (Katie Horner of Wayne) arrives on their doorstep up for the task at hand. With a spoonful of sugar, she must teach the family how to value each other and the world around them.

Director Marcus Stevens is a New York based actor, writer and director. As an actor, he has starred in Manhattan's renowned Forbidden Broadway and can be heard on the two of the original cast albums. Marcus has also worked at many of country's premiere regional theaters, including the Walnut Street Theater, The Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera and The Sacramento Music Circus and Casa Manana. A Richard Rodgers award-winning writer, Marcus has had his plays produced in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Fresno, Toronto and New York City. His musical "Yo, Vikings" was just recently published by Samuel French Inc.

Stevens said, "From my point of view, the show is about the existence of mystical, positive forces in the universe (Mary and Bert) helping us find our way." He added, "The Banks family learns that though life is never easy, you can't let it crush you. You must do your best to enjoy every little moment with the people you love."

Upper Darby Summer Stage's mainstage program offers young adults up to the age of 28 the opportunity to collaborate in a professional atmosphere while presenting audiences with top-notch productions that include professional level sets, lighting, costumes and are accompanied by a live orchestra.

The Upper Darby Performing Arts Center is jointly sponsored by the Upper Darby School District Board of School Directors and Upper Darby Township Mayor and Council through the Department of Recreation and Leisure Services.

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