Drama organization Centerstage brings Mary Poppins Jr. to life

CALHOUN CITY, MSS. (WCBI) – A practically perfect musical takes place this week as part of a drama organization in Calhoun County.

Centerstage of Calhoun County is bringing the classic Mary Poppins Jr. to audiences.

When Suzanne Oakley was looking for the next production for Calhoun County students, a well known classic was at the top of her list.

“Several years ago I directed Mary Poppins at Tupelo Community Theatre. Music Theatre International has a junior version, I love the show, it’s a wonderful story, about the human condition and how to be the best person you possibly can be,” said Oakley.

Plus, there are lots of dazzling costumes, sets and special effects.

Oakley is a counselor at Calhoun City High School, and is also director of Centerstage, the drama club that includes students from Bruce, Calhoun City, Vardaman, Calhoun Academy and homeschoolers.

Oakley believes students have unique opportunities through Centerstage.

“Learning about things like music and drama ignite a different part of the brain and amend the ways students think, it can affect academic performance in the classroom and makes us more well rounded human beings,” said Oakley.

Mary Poppins Jr. is a big production with 55 cast members and even more people behind the scenes.

It is a community effort with moms and dads helping with set construction and wardrobe, and football players help Mary fly.

“We have a really good time, we have put a lot of hard work into it,” said Nathan Dowling, who plays Bert.

Also, new friendships are made with students from other schools.

“I like being able to interact with other people in the county, because I get to make new friends, otherwise I wouldn’t get to talk to anyone else in the county,” said Anna Edgeworth, who plays Mary Poppins.

“We make a lot of new friends, I don’t really know anyone else than Calhoun City,” said Lauren Lee, who plays Michael Banks.

The high flying, magical musical adventure runs Thursday through Saturday at Calhoun City High School.

You can get tickets for Mary Poppins Jr. at Calhoun City High School.

Showtime for Thursday and Friday is 7:30 p.m. and Saturday’s show takes place at 2:00 p.m.