Special Features
PLAYBILLDER Spotlight: A Student Wrote An Essay to Campaign for This High School to Perform Mary Poppins
Wilmington Christian School in Delaware creates connection.
March 16, 2026 By Dylan Parent
Welcome to PLAYBILLDER Spotlight, where Playbill highlights shows from educational institutions or regional theatres and special events around the country (who have used Playbill's program-building service). By welcoming these PLAYBILLDERs center stage, we hope to give our readers a more in-depth look at theatre programs that are fostering the love of the performing arts in the next generation and the way theatre lovers are bringing Playbill along for life's big moments.
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This week's Spotlight is Wilmington Christian School of Wilmington, Delaware, and their production of Mary Poppins. Based on P.L. Travers' books and Walt Disney's film, the Cameron Mackintosh musical is practically perfect at capturing hearts. Jane and Michael Banks are experts at sending nannies running. But when the magical Mary Poppins enters their home, she teaches the entire household to value each other.
Director of Fine Arts Jerry Polman shared with Playbill why now is the perfect time for musicals to create connection between students.
Tell us a little about yourself. How many years have you been teaching?
Jerry Polman: I have been teaching for over 20 years. I have directed nine full scale Broadway musical productions at the high school level.
What are the most challenging and most rewarding aspects of teaching the performing arts to today’s students.
In the age of AI, the performing arts present a distinctly human way of connecting and understanding the world and others. Music and stories are powerful tools to connect us to our shared experiences and humanity.
What made you pick the show? How do you choose shows for your students?
The show is wholesome and family friendly with positive messages for kids and adults. There are also good opportunities for our large ensemble to be on stage throughout the show. The show was recommended by a student who wrote a lengthy and thorough essay to plead its case.
What are the kids loving about the show?
The familiar and catchy music and engaging dance numbers are key features in student enjoyment.
What reactions do you expect to see in students when they see their name printed in this Playbill for the first time?
The Playbill always adds an air of legitimacy to their hard work. They see themselves in a different light with a professional looking Playbill.
To design Broadway-quality programs for your next show or special event, head to PLAYBILLDER.com. Who knows, you might just be featured in our next PLAYBILLDER Spotlight! And if you are looking for a beautiful way to display your Playbills, click here to purchase Playbill frames.
