So it’s no surprise the tough-love character of Mary Poppins, the haughty but utterly magical nanny, is as beloved as ever, more than 50 years after she first appeared on the silver screen.

Mary, Bert and the Banks family will sweep into Ballarat within only a matter of weeks with the upcoming local BLOC Theatre production.

Principal actor Emily Jacker is hoping her alter-ego will provide some salient tips for enterprising mums and dads.

Jacker said Mary’s egocentric attitude was one of the best things about the early 20^th century children’s book character. “She helps this family without necessarily doing it the conventional way.

“She uses magic to help the children see how they need to better themselves and regroup as a family. I like her attitude towards helping others.

“The children end up loving her even though she’s a bit more standoff-ish towards them, she doesn’t show as much love towards them in that way because it’s not her role to be their mother or their carer.”

Jacker moved from Geelong to Ballarat six months ago and is studying music theatre at Federation University. Previously having performed in other stage shows such as Cats, Les Miserable, West Side Story and My Fair Lady, she said Mary Poppins was quite different to other famed nanny characters, such as Supernanny.

“Her approach is a bit more calming,” she said of TV star Jo Frost.

“Mary Poppins helps them figure out in their own way what’s happening and how that affects them and their family.”

Jacker said Mary Poppins’ enduring legacy was philosophical. “She continues the legacy that you can change, and even if you’ve lost your way, there is a way to come back from that and people who are around you and love you will support you.”

Legendary actress Julie Andrews made her feature film debut in Mary Poppins in 1964, with her performance in the title role winning her the Academy Award for best actress.

Mary Poppins will run from May 5 to 15 at Her Majesty’s Theatre. 

Tickets, $30 to $45, are available at www.hermaj.com