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Exeter, Devon UK • [date-today] • VOL XII
Home Music MUSICals – Mary Poppins (1964) Review

MUSICals – Mary Poppins (1964) Review

Bethany Donovan reviews the wonderful soundtrack to Mary Poppins, drawing upon its infectious magic and connections to her childhood
2 mins read
Written by
Julie Andrews as Mary Poppins (Wikimedia Commons)

Listening to the Mary Poppins soundtrack is like stepping into a time machine that transports me back to my childhood. I press play and the masterpiece created by the Sherman Brothers immediately transports me into a world of imagination, magic and joy. It’s a perfect blend between the whimsical and the profound, offering both escapism and nostalgia while sparking a sense of wonder that makes anything feel possible.  

The song “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” is a classic and a perfect reflection of Mary Poppins’ character: fun and creative. The playful lyrics and upbeat rhythm are infectious, making it impossible not to sing along. What ultimately makes it so memorable is its mischievous, energetic delivery which evokes a sense of joy and silliness, capturing the essence of childhood imagination and magic.  

“Feed the Birds” is one of the most moving moments in the film. Julie Andrews’ delicate soprano voice gives the song a timeless beauty, delivering its simple yet profound message with warmth and tenderness. It’s focus on the small, seemingly insignificant act of feeding the birds combines with the softer tempo to encourage us to reflect and appreciate the little things in life.  

The joyful finale “Let’s Go Fly a Kite” is a triumphant conclusion, showing George Banks’ reconnection with both his family and inner child. There is an undeniable sense of elation within the song, with the notion of flying a kite allowing the characters to jubilantly let their troubles fly away.  

The songs in this soundtrack are timeless, and the melodies unforgettable, while remaining true to the soaring beauty of Golden Age musicals. Whether it’s the playful energy of “Step in Time” or the poignant simplicity of “Feed the Birds”, there is something for everyone, which is the main reason that the soundtrack goes down like a “Spoonful of Sugar” every time. 

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