I start getting excited about the Garrison Players summer camp as soon as my semester finishes at UNH, around May. It's always wonderful to see all the returning names on the roster as well as many new campers. This year I was able to assemble an amazing team of not only skilled theater artists, but compassionate and hard-working people who share my passion for youth theater.
The film of Mary Poppins has always been an iconic treasure in my family. The staged version is quite different than the movie but maintains many of the expected moments of magic. These moments are particularly tricky with a limited budget in a community theater setting but I think you will be delighted with our clever creativity! In addition, the musical score is extremely challenging for this age range with its complicated harmonies, quick key changes, and wide vocal range. I have been very impressed with the caliber of talent and willingness to learn and grow with this cast.
Our camp has always been student-centered with a focus on skill building. It always amazes me how quickly these incredible young people can pick up complicated choreography, stretch their voices to new tones and projections, hone in on acting instincts and distinct characterizations, and dive into the creative process of prop and set design. This year we had two extra bonus classes one in lighting techniques with our UNH intern, Michelle and another in sewing with our Angel volunteer, Tina.
With covid and inflation on everyone's consciousness, it has been such a relief to come to camp everyday and focus on a story of resilience; reminding us that life is meant to be FUN and that the most important thing we can teach our children is the value of human connection, especially family. Sometimes we have to drink the medicine that life gives us but as Mary Poppins says "a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down".
We hope you enjoy this show as much as we have enjoyed working on it.
Melissa Manseau, Director
