WORDS like spectacular and showman-like cannot fully describe the skill that goes into top-notch show, Mary Poppins.

Since it is produced by Disney, who made the original film, together with Cameron Mackintosh, you would expect nothing less.

Eleven-year-old Bonita, a pupil of Loreto Grammar School, Altrincham, shows wisdom in saying she liked the sets best.  I agree.   Bob Crowley’s award winning design is incredibly good.

The choreography by recently knighted Matthew Bourne, is second to none, being both imaginative and fast paced. 

 Bert’s high rise tap dancing regime is executed perfectly by Matt Lee. as are statues that come to life and dance. IIn another scene, Matt manages to circumnavigate the edge of the stage like a spider.

Wires enable kites and even people to fly.

The story is about two unruly children from a dysfunctional family who are taken under the wing of their new nanny, Mary Poppins who has magical powers.
 
Zizi Strallen is made for the part.   She captures the other worldliness of her character.

On press night her charges are played by Lucy Simmonds, 10 and Lewis Fernee, 9, who perform with confidence throughout.

Their father, who usually ignores his kids, but whose attitudes are changed by Mary, is  acted well by Milo Twomey.   His down trodden wife, Winifred is put over well by Rebecca Lock.

Songs such as Feed the Birds and Chim Chim Cher-ee stick in your head as you make your supercalifragilistic way home.

•    Mary Poppins continues at the Palace Theatre until March 5th.   For tickets, telephone 0844 871 3019 or visit atgtickets.com/manchester.   Star rating: * * * * *