Mary Poppins has swept into the Wales Millennium Centre for a Christmas run that lasts until 10 January 2026, and this spectacular production brings with it all the charm, heart and imagination that generations have loved.
For families looking for a festive treat or adults wishing to dip back into their childhood, this is a production that feels both comforting and invigorating, blending classic storytelling with impressive technical theatre.
For those unfamiliar with the background of the story, Mary Poppins began in print in 1934, created by P. L. Travers as a magical yet firm and mysterious figure who went on to feature in eight books. She became a global icon after Disney’s 1964 film with Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke, whose mix of live action, animation and a memorable soundtrack made her a lasting favourite.
The stage musical followed in 2004, blending new songs with the classics and drawing closer to the books in tone. It is still delighting audiences today, and this Cardiff run shows why her story continues to shine.
Here is what audiences can look forward to when they visit this Christmas.
Nostalgia that hits home
For many in the audience, the show brings back warm memories of childhood. For us, it carried even more weight. Having an eleven-year-old who has grown and changed so much over the last year, the production’s themes felt remarkably close to home. Watching Jane and Michael navigate their ups and downs reminded us how quickly children transform, and how precious those imaginative years are.
One of the most touching parts of the evening was seeing the adults on stage and in the auditorium, embrace the joy of play again. During “Let’s Go Fly a Kite,” the atmosphere lifted, and you could sense people letting go of everyday pressures and simply enjoying the moment. Mary Poppins has always been about recapturing that sense of wonder, and this production delivers it beautifully. It actually reminded us of a time when flying a kite on Barry Island beach!
We found it especially touching that Poppins arrives in Cardiff for Christmas. We live in a very materialistic time, always working hard to pay for things, and it is easy to forget that enjoying time with family does not have to cost anything. I know it is slightly ironic that we bought tickets to see Poppins as a family, but hear me out. The scenes of the Banks children heading to the park are a simple reminder that imagination is free.
A cast bursting with talent
The cast for this touring production is genuinely outstanding. Stefanie Jones is enchanting as Mary Poppins, bringing warmth and crisp precision to every scene. Jack Chambers shines as Bert, full of character, charm and extraordinary physical skill.
The roles of Jane and Michael Banks are played by several young performers throughout the run, and each brings confidence and real capability to the stage. Their timing, expression and stage presence add genuine heart to the production.
The cast are all talented and deliver a polished performance, though a few standouts deserve a special mention.
Jack Chambers brings warmth and charm to Bert. He is funny, light on his feet and carries the role with ease. Following in the footsteps of Dick Van Dyke is no small task, yet he rises to it. He guides the story, sings, dances and proves a perfect partner to Mary Poppins, with a hint of that jack of all trades spirit the character is known for.
Rosemary Ashe gives Mrs Brill a lively and quirky edge. As the cook who seems to clash with the rest of the household, she adds humour and energy without ever feeling over the top. Like many in the story, she starts out unsettled but ends far more at ease. That shift captures the Mary Poppins effect perfectly.
The wider ensemble is equally strong, shifting between characters, accents and full-scale dance numbers with ease. Their energy drives the show and creates a world that feels vivid and always moving.
We were left very impressed by the sheer talent and stamina the performers need to pull off a show like this. They spend long stretches on stage, often doing physical moves that go well beyond dance, and we will not spoil any of it. There is a huge amount of choreography to remember, with routines, steps, cues and set movements to keep track of night after night. Hats off to every one of you.
A set straight from a child’s imagination
The staging is one of the standout elements of this production. The main set resembles a giant doll’s house with the Banks family home unfolding and rotating to reveal different rooms across several levels. It is cleverly designed, playful and instantly engaging.
Colour plays a major part in the visual storytelling. Everyday scenes begin in muted Edwardian tones, before bursting into bold, vibrant hues as Mary leads the children into magical adventures. The costume changes mirror this pattern, shifting from drab to dazzling with each musical number. There’s always something new to look at, and it keeps the whole performance lively and immersive.
The set is packed with illusions and clever tricks, not just Mary’s famous never ending magical carpet bag. There is plenty to take in, so keep an eye out for subtle movements on the stage. We have Paul Kieve to thank for much of this, along with the set designers, sound team and lighting engineers who bring it all together.
With such elaborate and technical staging, it is no surprise that things can sometimes go wrong. During our performance, a piece of set did not move fully into place. After a brief pause the issue was sorted quickly, and the cast carried on without missing a beat. Their professionalism kept the atmosphere calm and the audience fully engaged.
Show-stopping choreography
The choreography is nothing short of exceptional. “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” features a dazzling sequence of hand movements and formations that spell out the famous word, performed with faultless timing. The detail is so intricate that it becomes almost mesmerising, and none of it is lost on the audience. I know some people on opening night had the uncontrollable urge to join in.
Then comes “Step in Time,” which is easily one of the highlights of the show. At first, the chimney sweeps appeared to be part of a digital backdrop, until they began stepping out of the shadows and into formation. What followed was an electrifying tap routine that raised the energy of the entire theatre. The moment Bert walked up the side of the proscenium and onto the ceiling drew a wave of gasps and applause. It is a feat of skill, precision and sheer theatrical magic. We just hope we’ve not spoil it by mentioning it!
Songs old and new
Audiences will recognise favourites such as “A Spoonful of Sugar,” “Jolly Holiday” and “Feed the Birds,” all performed with heartfelt charm. Around ten newer songs, added for the stage version, help to deepen the story and develop the emotional journey of the characters.
Some well-known scenes from the film, including the fairground horse race, fox hunt and upside-down tea party, are not featured. However, the overall message about connection, imagination and the transforming power of kindness, remains firmly at the heart of the production.
A festive must-see
Mary Poppins at Wales Millennium Centre is a joyful, polished and heartwarming production that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or sharing the story with the next generation, it is an ideal festive outing.
If you’re ready for a show that’s practically perfect in every way, then gather your umbrellas, hold onto your hats and book your seats before they fly off. Check prices and availability here.
The show runs for about 2 hours and 50 minutes and is recommended for ages seven and up. Under 16s must sit with an adult.
Book early for the best seats and take advantage of group discounts and weekday promotional offers. Find out more and buy tickets:
https://www.wmc.org.uk/en/whats-on/2025/mary-poppins
