originally published: 04/17/2025
Maxim Verdicchio as Bert and Riley Conaty as Mary Poppins, photo by Dave Dabour
(GLEN GARDNER, NJ) -- ShowKids Invitational Theatre (SKIT) brings the magic of Disney's "Mary Poppins" to the stage this May, featuring a double cast of talented young performers ages 7-18 at Voorhees High School in Glen Gardner. The production includes six performances between May 3-11, 2025 with special aerial effects allowing the iconic nanny to truly take flight.
"This production showcases what makes SKIT special – giving young performers the chance to tackle principal roles in professional-caliber productions," said Carol Newman, Director. "The combination of the iconic story, unforgettable songs and dance numbers, and astonishing stagecraft creates a magical experience for performers and audiences alike."
Based on P.L. Travers' beloved stories and the classic Walt Disney film, "Mary Poppins" follows the Banks family and their transformation after the arrival of a mysterious nanny who blows in on the East Wind. The production features the timeless songs "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious," and "A Spoonful of Sugar."
Photo by Dave Dabour
The cast includes Riley Conaty in the title role of Mary Poppins, with Alex Apgar and Maxim Verdicchio alternating as Bert. Kaden Brightwell and Ian Schroeder perform as George Banks, with Gwen Jester as Winifred Banks. Joni Lazovick and Paige Wranitz share the role of Jane Banks, while Oliver Wong and Zachary Schroeder alternate as Michael Banks.
Additional cast members include Elizabeth Miller and Bella De La Torre sharing the roles of Katie Nanna and Bird Woman, Maddie Nasto as Miss Brill, Lucas DePaul as Robertson Ay, Tom Newman as Park Keeper and Bank Chairman, Lauren Stowers as Miss Smythe, Ryleigh DeWees and Claire Wranitz alternating as Mrs. Corry, Sophia DiLanno as Miss Andrews, and Callista Tronoski as Valentine.
In addition to the performances, SKIT is offering two special events:
* A Day Celebrating Caregivers, May 3rd at 2:00pm & 7:30pm - As part of the Saturday, May 3 performances, SKIT will hold a special recognition of extraordinary caregivers nominated by the community. These special individuals – nannies, daycare teachers, grandparents, babysitters, and others who bring joy and nurturing to children's lives – will be celebrated during the show. All nominated caregivers will be recognized, and one nominee will receive tickets to see the show. Email [email protected] by April 28, 2025 to submit your nominee.
* Seniors Brunch & Pre-show, May 4th from 12:30pm-1:45pm - On May 4, SKIT will host a special event for senior citizens, who are invited to enjoy a complimentary brunch and performance featuring SKIT alumni prior to the afternoon show. Senior brunch is complimentary with a purchase of a show ticket.
Alex Apgar as Bert, photo by Dave Dabou
Performances will be held at Voorhees High School Auditorium in Glen Gardner, NJ on Saturday, May 3 at 2:00pm & 7:30pm; Sunday, May 4 at 2:00pm (Senior Citizen Brunch); Saturday, May 10 at 2:00pm & 7:30pm; and Sunday, May 11 at 2:00pm. Tickets range from $14.50 to $23.50 and are available for purchase online or by calling 908-638-5959.
Founded in 1986, ShowKids Invitational Theatre is a non-profit repertory community theater group dedicated to providing young performers ages 7-18 with professional-caliber theatrical experiences. The organization focuses on casting youth in principal roles while maintaining high production standards through experienced artistic and technical teams. Over its 39-year history, SKIT has become known for creating opportunities for families to work together toward common goals while delivering family-oriented musicals to the community.
The production is made possible by funds from the Hunterdon County Cultural and Heritage Commission, a New Jersey State Council of the Arts partner.
Oliver Wong as Michael, Riley Conaty as Mary Poppins, Alex Apgar as Bert, Joni Lazovick as Jane. Photo by Dave Dabour
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