Mary Poppins a record-setting show for Western Canada Theatre

Dec 9, 2015 | 8:26 AM

KAMLOOPS — The Western Canada Theatre production of Mary Poppins that closed last night was the biggest-selling show in the theatre company’s 40-year history, according to General Manager Lori Marchand.

Marchand says many of the shows during the two-week run at Sagebrush Theatre sold out easily and the family-friendly story drew the audience in.

“We certainly knew it would do well; obviously it’s a family favourite,” said Marchand. “You could hear the audience singing the songs. They were trying to do it under their breath. It was very, very fun.”

Marchand adds there were more than 3000 students who attended performances as part of school outings, and she estimates at least that many attended on their own or with their families.

“It’s such a gift to be able to enjoy a production such as this, with such a really big heart. Somebody sent us an email saying, ‘From eight to 81, we all enjoyed it.’ It makes it a really great place to work.”

The production will now travel to Saskatoon in April for a 25-day run at that city’s Persephone Theatre.