George Banks (played by Michael Hadary) presents a kite to his children, Jane and Michael (Maggie Tarpley, Hudson Hsu), with the loving approval of Winifred Banks (Desiree Dillon) in Peach State Summer Theatre’s ‘Mary Poppins’ playing through late July.

One never knows where to begin reviewing a show directed by Dr. Randy Wheeler. Peach State Summer Theatre’s “Mary Poppin” is no exception.

Wheeler and choreographer Barbara Hartwig spare none of the expected spectacular of “Poppins:” A magical, flying nanny. Production numbers with living statues. A whirling, spinning, kaliedoscopic spell-down of “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.” The madcap, can-can rush of “Step in Time” along the rooftops of London.

PSST!’s “Mary Poppins” is big, bold entertainment. Yet, it is Wheeler’s ability to find a soul within the spectacle that has been a hallmark of his brilliance. It is this ability that makes “Poppins” brave.

Granted, the heart of the story is written into the script, but it’s Wheeler who sets the compassionate tempo of its rhythmic beat.

Like the movie, the live show contains the expected: Unruly children needing firm hand along with a “Spoonful of Sugar,” enter a magical nanny who manages the children with wisdom and compassion, all while singing Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman’s memorable songs.

Unlike the movie, the stage “Poppins” reveals early that it is the children’s strict, overworked father who needs a proper nanny. Save the father and the children will behave.

A lesson for all ages in this “Mary Poppins.”

In creating this world, Wheeler and Hartwig are accompanied by a marvelous creative team. Esther Iverson’s costume design, Ruth Brandvik’s scene designs, and Genny Wynn’s lighting designs range from the rainbow glow of “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” to the impressionistic, Georges-Pierre Seurat-like “Jolly Holiday” to the moon-glow sparkle-ash silhouette of “Step in Time.”

The cast brings this story to life.

Great to see Michael Hadary on stage. Hadary is a VSU Theatre & Dance vocal instructor and serves as PSST!’s vocal director. In “Poppins,” he plays the father, George Banks; his character undergoes the most dynamic transformation and Hadary hits all of the right notes both in character, and of course, in song. Desiree Dillon brings a fragile, glowing charm to the mother Winifred Banks, a woman whose natural warmth has been cooled by her husband’s anxious shadow.

Renita James is impressive as the oppressive nanny Miss Andrew. From voice to stage presence to characterization, James breathes intimidating life into this menacing nanny.

The Banks children are played by local youngsters who bring authenticity and talent to their roles. Maggie Tarpley plays older sibling Jane Banks. On alternating nights, John Laurent Dean and Hudson Hsu play Michael Banks. The youngsters are real children playing real children. The Banks kids range from spoiled to angelic and the performers express this full range.

Olin Davidson plays Bert with humor, grace and always humanity. The magical versatile Bert may be an angel, but he seems the most human of characters in “Mary Poppins.” Davidson retains a hint of the cinematic Dick Van Dyke portrayal while bringing his own divine spark to Bert’s character.

Megan Wheeler doesn’t just play the title character; she becomes Mary Poppins. Her voice, her poise, her timing, it all blends into a most marvelous Mary Poppins. She plays an all-knowing character with an innate ability.

PSST!’s “Mary Poppins” is a fine show for all ages. Children should be fine even during the scene where the toys come to life; however, it is the adults who will not only be tapping their feet the next day but will be like Mr. Banks — weighing the choices in their lives.  

This review is based on the opening night performance, Friday, June 6.

Peach State Summer Theatre’s “Mary Poppins” continues 7:30 p.m., June 14; 3 p.m., June 15; then in rotating repertory through July 26, Sawyer Theatre, Valdosta State University Fine Arts Building, corner of Oak and Brookwood. Reservations, more information: Call (229) 259-7770; or visit www.valdosta.edu/psst