“Big city entertainment, in the heart of Castro Valley!” That’s what Castro Valley Arts Foundation (CVAF) promises.
“Our 2025-26 series fills that bill,” says CVAF vice president Mary Ann DeGrazia. “The summer blockbuster, Mary Poppins, opens Friday, July 25. With a cast of 36 and a full orchestra, this will be our largest production yet.” This Disney classic has it all: big tap numbers with specialty dancers, flying and special effects, and an enchanting story with a happy ending.
The journey of Mary Poppins from beloved children’s book to iconic film to classic stage musical is as magical as the tale itself. Director Becky Potter loves to watch audiences drawn in by the magic. “This show looks at the dreams and disappointments of family life and, by the final curtain, suggests some very good solutions. This family friendly production entertains children, parents and grandparents alike.”
Mary Poppins is a dance show with traditional musical theater numbers as well as tap and ballet. Choreographer Renee DeWeese Moran adds, “The dance numbers set the pace of the show and contain many of the iconic moments people remember from the movie. These dance numbers pop with imagination, excitement and nostalgia.”
The music of Mary Poppins has been in our DNA since the ‘60s with hits like, “A Spoon Full of Sugar” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.” “But it is actually the quieter numbers that carry the depth of the show,” says music director Camden Daly. He encourages the audience to listen carefully to the lyrics. “Feed the Birds” is an anthem about generosity to those in need: “All it takes is tuppence from you.”
Mary Poppins is a CVAF/TMC Arts production. Discounts are available with series purchase. Free parking and handicap accessible are available. ASL Interpreters will perform at the Sunday, Aug. 10 performance.
Mary Poppins
Fri, July 25 – Sun, Aug. 10
Fri & Sat: 7:30pm; Sun 2pm
Castro Valley Center for the Arts
19501 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
510.889.8961
