As the performance dates for Newtown High School’s spring musical, Mary Poppins, approach, students are working hard to bring the production’s magic to the school’s auditorium stage.

“The kids are amazing, working unbelievably hard. Magic is really difficult,” said Director Jane Matson on March 5 as students rehearsed.

NHS has scheduled performances at the school, 12 Berkshire Road, at 7 pm on March 21, 22, and 23. Matinee performances at 2 pm are scheduled for March 23 and 24. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for students and senior citizens. Tickets for the musical can be purchased online at nhsc.booktix.com.

Tickets, especially for the matinee performances, are already selling fast, according to Ms Matson.

The musical Mary Poppins is based on the Disney movie by the same name and book series by author P.L. Travers about a magical nanny and her “precocious” charges.

Those planning to attend the musical can expect to see magic, color, dancing, and singing, according to Ms Matson.

A “Spoonful of Sugar Tea With Mary and Bert” is also being planned for 10 am on Saturday, March 23, in the NHS cafetorium for local children to meet the musical’s main characters, for $15. Ms Matson said children attending the event will have the chance to meet the characters Mary and Bert, along with other characters from the musical. They will also be able to take their picture with the characters and decorate their own kite.

The NHS Culinary Department will oversee drinks and food at the event. Tickets for the “Spoonful of Sugar Tea With Mary and Bert” are also available on the website, nhsc.booktix.com.