As Todd Ingersoll, president of Ingersoll Automotive, entered Newtown High School’s auditorium on January 31 to deliver a donation from Ingersoll Auto of Danbury for the school’s spring musical, Mary Poppins, students were rehearsing a scene on stage under the guidance of Director Jane Matson.

On one beat, the students were turning their heads in time to Ms Matson’s directions, and the next beat they were ready to meet Mr Ingersoll and pose for a picture with the giant presentation check. The $7,500 donation to the production from Ingersoll Auto of Danbury was certainly appreciated, given the reception in the auditorium on January 31. Students surrounded Mr Ingersoll and many “Thanks!” could be heard.

Further sponsorships and donations for the musical are still being accepted. For information on how to donate or sponsor, e-mail [naviga:u]newtown.musicals@gmail.com[/naviga:u], according to co-producers Tegan Famiglietti and Alysia Caffrey.

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.

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.

A “Spoonful of Sugar Tea With Mary and Bert” is also being planned for 10 am in the NHS cafetorium for local children to meet the musical’s main characters, for $15.

Tickets for the musical can be purchased online at [naviga:u]nhsc.booktix.com[/naviga:u].