Okay, so the movie and the stage show are legendary. Both are full of magic, and frankly, the film could NEVER be remade. Both were based on the series of books written by P. L. Travers. It’s a well-known fact that Travers (who, apparently, was very intense and was considered something of a character) strongly disliked the film adaptation, despite what Disney’s Saving Mr. Banks depicted. Travers wasn’t even invited to the premiere of the film (she had to get permission from Disney himself to even attend). However we, sometimes unfortunately, live in the age of remakes. So, what would happen if Mary Poppins got remade? We’ll be basing this on the books, as those were the original source material for both the stage and film.
Laura originated the role of Mary in the West End and also played Mary on Broadway. Mary isn’t the easiest person – to be honest, she’s a bit of a know-it-all and at times, a bit rude. None the less, Mary is still FULL of magic and is still the loving nanny we all know. Laura can maintain the magic, fun, sternness and more of Mary, she’s already proven that. What’s an added bonus is that Laura’s got a gorgeous, rich singing voice – whomever plays Mary needs this. Laura has the singing and speaking voice – which is SO key for the role. It is also noted throughout the books about how Mary’s looks are somewhat important, which Laura has. She’s totally suited for the role.
Gavin originated the role of Bert, alongside Laura, in the West End and also originated the role on Broadway. For his role on Broadway, Gavin was nominated for a Tony Award and won the Drama Desk Award for a Featured Actor in a Musical. Gavin is a complete character actor, which is totally needed for the role of Bert. Gavin sings, dances, and is more than capable of throwing himself into a role. He’s so good at playing Bert, it’s entirely possible (especially during the stage show when Gavin was tap dancing on the ceiling – yes, you read that correctly) to forget that this is someone playing Bert. Laura and he have brilliant chemistry together. Gavin manages to work well with whomever he is cast with, and manages to suck everyone in to the show.
There are so many children who could play the roles. However, finding the correct ones is key. Probably any of the children who have featured in the musical Matilda could play the siblings. Kerry Ingram and Jake Bailey would do brilliantly together, as both have stage experience in Matilda and are complete character actors. They both carry a sense of innocence around them as well.
Seeing as the cast of Mary Poppins, if continuing on with using the book as the source material, would be huge, we’d be here all day if this article continued on any longer. Mr. and Mrs. Banks could be played by Christian Borle and Rebecca Luker, and Mrs. Andrews played by Patti LuPone (sorry to any LuPone fans….). Of course, they’d have to keep some singing and dancing (which MUST be choreographed by Matthew Bourne) in the film. The film really would be a spoonful of fun.