The theatre department will be performing the musical “Mary Poppins” on Nov. 4 through 6. The musical will be showing at 7 p.m. on Nov. 4 and 5, and at 2 p.m. on Nov. 5 and 6.

Mary Poppins, the lead character, is played by junior Ella Wilson who has had three years of experience in the theatre department. Wilson has been in every fall and spring play since her freshman year. However, this is Wilson’s first play performing as the lead, and she is very excited for the opportunity. “[Being the lead] is very stressful but very fun, and I’m glad I got a chance to show my talent,” Wilson said.

The cast and crew have been practicing for hours every day for the past two months, putting in a lot of time and effort. The cast has been working on perfecting their performances, while the crew makes sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.

“We have spent so much time together and grown close. The relationships I have made with everyone especially the freshmen and Mrs. B, Mr. Hensley and Mrs. Parrish [have] been one my my favorite parts,” said Wilson.

Junior Chris Cerra, who is playing the character Mr. Vanhussler, is excited to be performing in his first JC play. “Practicing is exciting, but also hard because I’ve never danced, so keeping up is the hard part for me,” Cerra said.

“Mary Poppins is going to be different from previous plays,” according to sophomore Lindsay Rosser, “because of all of the different elements in it.” Rosser is playing Mrs. Correy and has been in five other plays at JC. “There are a lot more set pieces and costume changes in [this play]. The music is also really difficult,” said Rosser.

According to Cerra there are a lot of new cast members, including himself, in the musical, creating a larger cast. “I think it is different [from previous plays] because we have gained so many people this year- mainly freshmen. We have a great cast and I know the show will be great,” Cerra said.

All of the cast members are excited for their opening night performance on Nov. 4 and expect large crowds. “Being on stage is so exciting it’s like adrenaline pumping through your veins. When you see the audience, excitement over takes your body,” said Wilson.

Anna Sullivan is an Entertainment Editor for The Patriot and jcpatriot.com.