A Spoonful of Theater: Keene Lions Club Presents "Mary Poppins"

Get ready to be swept off your feet by a joyful, heartfelt musical filled with wonder, laughter and unforgettable adventure! The Keene Lions Club proudly presents Disney and Cameron Mackintosh's, "Mary Poppins," at the Colonial Theatre in Keene. Bursting with beloved songs like "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious," "A Spoonful of Sugar," and "Let's Go Fly a Kite," this enchanting production brings the magic to life. Set in Edwardian London, "Mary Poppins," follows the Banks family on a delightful journey of discovery, proving that with a little imagination — and a touch of Mary's special magic — anything is possible. This year's production marks the Keene Lions Club's 73rd annual show (and their 76th overall, including summer productions that began in 2023). It also makes history for another reason: it's the first time the club will be flying performers on stage. "We will be flying Mary Poppins, and it's very exciting," said Gregg Kleiner, immediate past president of the Keene Lions Club. "We're nervous because it's our first time, but I couldn't think of a better place to do it than the Colonial. They've done this before, they know what they're doing, and we have a great company helping us." The production is the Lions Club's signature fundraiser, with net proceeds going directly back into the local community. This year's show features a 90-person cast and a crew of 12 to 14, all of whom have spent the last six weeks rehearsing. "Mary Poppins was hugely popular in the 1960s with Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke," Kleiner added. "It's especially exciting to do this show now, as Dick Van Dyke recently turned 100 years old." At its heart, "Mary Poppins," is a warm and timeless story about family. Through magical and memorable adventures with Mary, the children learn to dream — and the parents learn to slow down, reconnect and truly value one another. By the final curtain, the Banks family is brought back together, reminding audiences of the joy and lightness of childhood. Founded in 1937, the Keene Lions Club is one of the largest Lions Clubs in New Hampshire, with 74 members and nearly 90 years of service to the community. "Our members come from all walks of life," said Kleiner. "We raise funds to support our community through eyeglass and hearing aid assistance, local sponsorships, camperships and more." Tickets are selling quickly, so people are encouraged to purchase early. Perfect for all ages, this uplifting production promises to leave you inspired — and humming all the way home. Performances will be held on Thursday, Feb. 13 at 7:30 p.m., Friday, Feb. 14 at 1 and 7:30 p.m., and Saturday, Feb. 15 at 1 p.m. The Colonial Theatre is located at 95 Main St., Keene. For tickets and information: thecolonial.org or 603-352-2033.