June 10, 2015
Poppins People Post
Mary Bowden
"Mary Poppins"

The iconic “Mary Poppins” has been a role that I have wanted to tackle ever since I first saw the national tour in Atlanta a few years ago. A year later I was in New York and was fortunate enough to get to see it on Broadway, and the feeling grew even stronger. When I found out a little over a year ago that Market House Theatre was going to produce this musical, I was more determined than ever to prepare myself for my audition for the lovable nanny of No. 17 Cherry Tree Lane.

 The rehearsal process for this show has been smooth and so much fun. The blocking, music and dance rehearsals are extremely focused and we are constantly being pushed to be the best performers we can be by our directors. The cast gels very well together and I love getting to share the stage with such talented performers! To be completely honest, sometimes in rehearsals when I would be acting in a scene or singing song with someone else, I would think to myself, “WOW, they are just so fantastic!” when really I should be thinking about what line comes next. I can’t help it – Paducah is blessed with talented actors, singers, and dancers!

This experience has been more fun and challenging than I could have ever imagined. I am on stage more than I ever have been during one show, and if I’m not onstage, chances are that I’m backstage travelling to the other side of the stage while gathering props to prepare for another entrance. There is no time for me to “check out” of the show – I need to stay completely focused the entire time. The kids (Hope and Lucas, who play Jane and Michael Banks) help with this a lot too because they are on stage more than I am! We’re always helping to pull one another along to make the next entrance – our offstage (and onstage) moments are really special to me. I also sing…a LOT…so staying hydrated and healthy has been of the utmost importance to me.


The character of Mary Poppins has taught me many things that I will take with me long after this show. She always speaks her mind, and never compromises who she is. Sometimes she’s even a bit rude, but I think that’s what we love about her! Mary Poppins knows how to get a job done, but she has fun doing it.  She is stern, light-hearted, neat, cross, and lovely. I am having the time of my life in this role, and I hope that audiences are able to connect with the show and take home a wonderful lesson about the importance of family!