Australia’s Own Stefanie Jones Soars Again as Mary Poppins in Magical UK Tour

Mary Poppins to embark on new tour – with initial casting revealed Winds in the east, there’s a mist comin’ in – the much-loved musical is back on the open road!

Following its recently concluded spell in the West End, Mary Poppins will be flying around the UK & Ireland on a new tour.

The hit musical, based on the iconic book about a flying nanny who swoops in to save a family, was last seen in the West End in early 2023.

Based on the PL Travers story, this musical has original music and lyrics by Richard M Sherman and Robert B Sherman, new songs and additional music and lyrics by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, book by Julian Fellowes, orchestrations by William David Brohn and dance and vocal arrangements by Stiles.

Richard Eyre directs, with co-direction and choreography by Matthew Bourne, co-choreography by Stephen Mear, sound design by Paul Gatehouse, lighting design by Hugh Vanstone and scenic and costume design by Bob Crowley.

Initial casting has been revealed – Stefanie Jones and Jack Chambers will reprise their roles as Mary Poppins and Bert, having played the parts in Australia in the show’s recent production Down Under. In the Australian production, Stefanie Jones shone brightly in her portrayal of Mary Poppins, delivering a performance that was both heartwarming and dazzling. Her embodiment of Mary’s character was filled with the perfect blend of wisdom, care, and a touch of mystery, which, coupled with her remarkable vocal and dance talents, left audiences spellbound. This role not only cemented Jones’s position as a formidable talent in musical theatre but also showcased her unique ability to bring a well-loved character to life in a way that felt both fresh and deeply faithful to the original spirit of Mary Poppins.

Producer and co-creator Cameron Mackintosh said today: ‘It is amazingly already 20 years since Mary Poppins first landed onto the stage at the Bristol Hippodrome and started spreading Pamela Travers’ magical stories around the great cities of the world. Mary has soared triumphantly around the globe and our recent Australian production discovered two of the most delightful Mary and Berts ever – Stefanie Jones and Jack Chambers – whom I’m thrilled to be bringing to the United Kingdom and Ireland to star in this spectacular new national tour. They are heading a wonderful cast and I’m sure you will find this the most magical production of Mary Poppins ever, practically perfect in every way!’

Thomas Schumacher, chief creative officer and producer, Disney Theatrical Group said today: ‘It is a joy to bring this glorious production back to the UK and Ireland under the guiding hand of our long-time partner Cameron Mackintosh. It is a privilege to keep the beloved tale of Mary and the Banks family alive for audiences who know it well, and for a new generation of theatregoers.’

The show will open on 4 November 2024 at Bristol Hippodrome, then visit Dublin (from 11 December), Edinburgh (from 22 January), Plymouth (from 26 February) and Manchester (from 9 April). Further venues are to be revealed.