Director Ian Aipperspach returns to SAAC for “MARY POPPINS” along with “Newsies” Team Members Ruth Griffin & Hannah Jade McGaugh

We are thrilled to welcome back visiting director Ian Aipperspach, Ph.D. After successfully directing SAAC’s summer 2023 musical “Newsies,” Aipperspach has returned to direct the 2024 summer musical production of Disney and Camron Macintosh’s “Mary Poppins,” sponsored by Murphy USA. Aipperspach brings a wealth of experience from both the educational and professional musical theater worlds, and is excited to once again see the talent and dedication of the people of south Arkansas.

With decades of experience in theatre, Aipperspach’s most recent productions include music directing “Anastasia” with Ouachita Baptist University and “Addams Family” with East Texas Baptist University. He has also had the privilege of serving as music director for “Mary Poppins” at Ouachita Baptist University and has professional credits, including stage directing “Forever Plaid” and music directing “Fiddler on the Roof” and “Titanic.”

Dr. Aipperspach serves as Lecturer of Music and Music Director for Musical Theatre at Ouachita Baptist University where he also teaches courses in Musicology and Music Theory. Previous engagements have included productions with the Marshall (TX) Kids Community Theatre, East Texas Baptist University, Lubbock Christian University, and Lubbock Moonlight Musicals where he served as production manager for summer shows and music director. He received his Ph.D. in Fine Arts from Texas Tech University.

Joining Aipperspach on the production team are assistant director Ruth Griffin and choreographer Hannah Jade McGaugh, both familiar faces on the SAAC stage.

Griffin recently directed SAAC’s Second Stage Production “The Odd Couple: Female Edition” and appeared on stage in “Once Upon a Mattress” as The Nightingale of Samarkand, Lady Maybelle, and Lady Merrill.

McGaugh has served as choreographer for SAAC’s productions of “Singin’ in the Rain,” “Mamma Mia!,” and “Newsies.” As a dancer, she is the owner and instructor at Lucy’s Ladies Dance Studio.

The musical “Mary Poppins” is set in early 20th century London and follows the Banks family, who are struggling to connect with each other. Mary Poppins, a magical nanny, arrives to care for the children and brings magic and wonder into their lives. Through her influence, the parents, George and Winifred, learn to let go of their strictness and become more loving and connected with their children. The story ends with Mary Poppins departing, leaving behind a transformed family that is more joyful and harmonious.

Auditions for “Mary Poppins” are scheduled for May 29 and 30 at SAAC.
For additional information, visit the Audition Page or call 870-862-5474.