July 19, 2024

‘Mary Poppins’ lands in town

by Vanessa Shultze

ABOVE: An assortment of actors and actresses in “Mary Poppins” practice technical rehearsal on Wednesday night at the Performing Arts Center at Fairmont High School. The show will begin at 7 p.m. on July 23.

FAIRMONT — The Fairmont Opera House’s Community Theater is drawing curtains, welcoming a certain English nanny who is floating down on her umbrella to bring entertainment and a stage full of magic to families in the Fairmont area. Community Theater presents a Broadway and Walt Disney classic, “Mary Poppins.”

The nurturing, heart-warming nature of “Mary Poppins’” lively characters has captured the hearts of audiences everywhere. The running performances will begin on opening night– 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 23. The showtimes will conclude at 2 p.m. on Sunday, July 28. All performances will be held in the Performing Arts Center inside Fairmont High School.

This is a change in venue as, traditionally, community theater shows are held within the Fairmont Opera House. In October of last year, the Opera House announced the temporary closure of the building due to construction necessities. With much appreciation to the generous workers of the UCC Church and Fairmont High School, both adult and children’s community theatre programs were promised to keep running.

“The show must go on,” Administrative Assistant Katelyn Langwith said with a smile.

Both she and Executive Director Blake Potthoff agreed that the community theater productions are so special to the community, that it was necessary to keep them this summer.

Director Sara Gudahl, who also directs theater at Fairmont High School, described that the transition to using the school’s Performing Arts Center wasn’t difficult and the stage is actually bigger, which allows actors to branch out more.

Auditions began in May and after roles were determined, practice began in June. For two months, the program has united a family of over 50 actors.

Gudahl was astounded by how many people joined this year’s theater production. She reminisced over the joyful memories she’s garnered with the actors and crew she’s worked alongside.

“It’s the largest cast I’ve directed [in the adult theater],” she said with a smile. “The practice is the best part of my days. Every day gives you a new memory.”

Courtney Steuber assists Gudahl and oversees choreography and stage direction within the production.

“[The show] is iconic. There are well-known numbers; well-loved numbers. It’s nice to see [cast members] stretch beyond their comfort zone,” said Steuber. “It’s fun to make connections and watch actors come to life. Tech rehearsals feel like magic.”

Jenny Trushenski succeeds in the role of Mary Poppins herself. Trushenski shines a light on Mary Poppin’s nurturing, kind nature through her exceptional acting and voice.

“It’s so nice to play such a well-known character. I didn’t know a lot of people when practice began, but I’ve gotten to know people including Jane and Michael,” said Trushenski, referring to actors Caitlyn Pickerel (playing Jane) and Eli Frederiksen (playing Michael).

“I’d love to do it again,” Trushenski added.

Pickerel and Frederiksen seize the roles of the two children who Mary Poppins tends to and takes with her on her magical adventures, Jane and Michael Banks. Frederiksen noted that this is his first theater production.

“This is my first show, and I was not expected to get a big role,” Frederiksen commented.

Pickerel, however, has a natural knack for the theater arts and has taken several notable roles in her musical journey. She said that while being involved in a musical was far from a new experience, this was her first time being a part of a predominantly grown-up cast.

Alan Fisher portrays the role of ‘Bert’, the bubbly and witty chimney-sweep, sidewalk artist, and loyal confidante of the magical nanny.

“It’s nice to see the community come together,” Fisher said.

Corey Shoen and Kaylee Bauman are among the strong team of stage crew. The stage crew assists the actors by moving props and helping the show come together on a technical level. Shoen and Bauman spoke for the rest of the crew regarding the excitement leading up to the performance dates.

While everyone involved is excited for the show and grateful for a venue to perform in, many actors long for the opportunity to perform in the historical space which is the Fairmont Opera House that many people have called home. Fundraising is actively taking place and donations can be made online at fairmontoperahouse.org. Tickets to “Mary Poppins” can also be purchased on the website.

A Busy Week Ahead with Community Partnerships Galore!

Tuesday: Opening Night!

The Bread Box treats for sale
Dee’s Floral Flowers for sale
Silent auction for a Fairmont Opera House photo book with pictures by JK Photography
Drawing for T-shirt photo contest: winner gets 2 Fairmont Brewing Crowlers and a Pizza from Jakes!

Wednesday:

Meat (Certificate) Raffle for local pork gift certificates from Hugoson Pork

Thursday:

Order Fairmont Brewing’s “Mary Poppins” seltzer at Fairmont Brewing Company before the show, and receive a coupon for $5 off your ticket purchase at the door
Silent Auction: handmade MN Twins bags

Friday:

Dee’s Floral Flowers for sale
Silent auction for a family portrait session by Jessica Sauck Photography

Saturday:

Order Shenanigans Cheer and Chow “Spoonful of Sugar” cocktail before the show, and receive a coupon for $5 off your ticket purchase at the door

Sunday: Closing Night

12:30-1:30 PM Graffiti Corner hosting “Spoonful of Sugar” event: order frozen yogurt special before the final performance. You may even see Mary Poppins herself there!