Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious success for Mary Poppins
Published on 24 March 2026
The curtain has come down on the 2026 Combined Schools Musical with Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins proving to be a supercalifragilisticexpialidocious success.
The production attracted more than 5300 attendees across three dedicated school shows and six sold out public performances at the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre (GECC).
Bringing together students from 14 different schools, including home schooled students, Mary Poppins showcased the depth of young talent in the region, with the entire cast and crew delivering a polished and professional show that captivated audiences of all ages.
IMAGE: (L to R) Hamish Petersen as Michael, Eva Bywaters as Jane, Shayla Hymus as Mary Poppins and Isaac Rankin as Bert.
Gladstone Region Mayor Matt Burnett said preparations for the 2026 Combined Schools Musical began in July last year when 165 students auditioned across two days.
“Since that time, it’s estimated that more than 200 hours of rehearsals took place,” Mayor Burnett said.
“Most of these rehearsals happened outside of school hours or on the weekend, which is a massive commitment for students to undertake.
“Mary Poppins was a fantastic example of what can be achieved when our schools, teachers and students come together to create something special, and the support our students received from the Creative Team led by director Hannah Waddell gave them the confidence to be their best both on and off the stage.”
IMAGE: 2026 Combined Schools Musical Mary Poppins.
Mayor Burnett added that in a milestone moment for the region, the production also marked the first time Auslan interpretation was incorporated into a theatrical performance at the GECC, helping to create a more inclusive and accessible experience for the hard of hearing.
“We had an Auslan interpreter present for the 13 March show and the feedback from this was great,” he said.
“This is something GECC is looking to include in more shows and performances moving forward in addition to the other accessibility features added to the venue in recent months, including installing the Auracast Assistive Hearing System in both the Theatre and Convention Halls, plus a new stage ramp for guests who require mobility support.”
IMAGE: Mary Poppins flys off with her magical umbrella.
The 2026 Combined Schools Musical wouldn’t be possible without the following sponsors: Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre (GECC), GECC Friends of the Theatre, Gladstone Regional Council, Central Apartment Group, CQUniversity, Everything Uniform, Newprint HRG and Queensland Energy Resources.
Keep an eye on the GECC Facebook page later this year when we ask the region to vote for the 2027 Community Musical.