Think you know everything about the iconic film, Mary Poppins? (the first one, not the recent one where she returns), think again.
The Life I Lead, the story of David Tomlinson who portrayed the infamous character of Mr Banks in the film, is transferring to the West End. Initially performed on a UK tour and at the Park Theatre, the intriguing, emotional, and unknown story of the man behind Mr Banks will have a short run at the Wyndham’s Theatre.
In this one-man show, comedian, presenter and actor Miles Jupp will reprise the role of David Tomlinson, complete with the iconic bowler hat. Described by the Telegraph as “a very British tour-de-force”, Miles has appeared as a performer across a wide range of genres – from stand-up comedy and theatre to major television series and Hollywood films.
No stranger to Theatreland, Miles has previously appeared in other successful stage productions, including making his West End debut in Alan Bennett’s People, and starring in the critically acclaimed production of Rules for Living alongside Stephen Mangan.
Miles will be portraying British actor David Tomlinson in the show. David is fondly remembered for playing the classic English gent in celebrated films such as Mary Poppins and Bedknobs And Broomsticks. He had an incredible life full of adventure, heartbreak and remarkable stories, including being a fighter pilot in World War Two, losing his first wife, and fighting to get his son recognised as one of the first British cases of autism.
The show also explores the relationship between David and his father. The man who portrayed one of cinema’s most famous patriarchs was defined by his relationship with his own father – a remote eccentric, who was hiding an extraordinary tragicomic secret. The Life I Lead is a richly comic and moving tale of fathers and sons across the generations and fills in the blanks behind a very well-known face.
The Life I Lead will run at the Wyndham’s Theatre between 16 – 21 September 2019.