AIS Jakarta’s Sinead Smith and Jon Gibson discussed the school’s latest stage production and how an iconic musical tale can turn into an invaluable skill-building experience.
This September, the celebrated Jakarta Campus of Australian Independent School (AIS) Indonesia recently premiered its latest musical production, Mary Poppins Jr., directed by Sinead Smith with Jon Gibson serving as the musical director. It was a production that both bewitched and dazzled, further showcasing the school’s commitment to artistic education and expression. That said, bringing Mary Poppins Jr. to the stage, above all else, was about teaching these incredible primary-level students the value of teamwork, respect, and responsibility. Indonesia Expat had a chance to chat with Sinead and Jon as they discussed their latest stage production—as well as its awe-inspiring impact on their hard-working students.
What inspired and motivated you both and AIS Jakarta to stage Mary Poppins Jr. as the school’s latest big musical production?
We chose Mary Poppins Jr. because it’s a story we’ve both loved since childhood. It’s charming, funny, and full of lessons that still feel relevant today. At AIS Jakarta, we wanted something that would feel familiar across generations, so parents and students could connect with it together, but we also wanted a production that would push our students artistically. The music is layered and complex, the ensemble numbers require real energy and focus, and the characters demand depth and personality. When the opportunity came to license Mary Poppins Jr., it felt like the perfect fit; a chance to stage a classic that audiences will enjoy, while giving our students the challenge of rising to something truly ambitious.
From your perspective, what kind of teamwork has been demonstrated across the whole school in bringing Mary Poppins Jr. to life?
The teamwork has been extraordinary. Students supported one another in learning lines and working through challenges. Whether in the main cast or as part of the ensemble, they showed real commitment to collaboration.
But what really stands out is how this production became a whole-school effort. Choreographers worked hand-in-hand with class teachers, staff collaborated over costumes, and every class contributed to the energy and creativity of the show. Even our fabulous PnF transformed the reception area with decorations, food, and drinks, so the audience was immersed in the magic from the moment they arrived. It’s been a remarkable example of what can happen when an entire community comes together to bring a story to life.
How did you both help the students navigate expectations and pressure, given the iconic status of the story itself?
The interesting thing is that many of our students weren’t actually very familiar with the 1964 Disney film, so they came to the story without preconceived ideas of how the characters ‘should’ be played. That was one of the reasons we felt confident choosing this story; it gave them freedom to make the roles their own. At the same time, rehearsals became an opportunity to spark interest in the classic movie, which they enjoyed exploring alongside their stage work. We talked a lot about progress, not perfection. Rehearsals are about learning, trying things out, and growing in confidence.
How do you both and AIS Jakarta shape discipline among the students during preparation? What discipline do you hope they emulate?
In a primary school setting, we don’t really talk about ‘discipline’ in the strict, professional theatre sense. For us, it’s more about developing good habits and showing respect for one another. We encourage students to be prepared, to listen carefully, to give their full attention, and to support their peers. These habits—showing up ready to try, working consistently, and being kind —are what allow a big production to come together smoothly. We hope that students at AIS Jakarta carry these skills with them beyond the stage; that they understand great things are achieved when everyone plays their part with responsibility and care.
Moreover, what kind of confidence do you both wish to build among the young actors?
With primary students, confidence is very much a journey. For some, it’s simply being brave enough to walk on stage in front of an audience for the first time. For others, it might be speaking a line clearly or daring to sing a solo. We want each child to take a step forward from where they started, to discover that they can do something today that felt impossible yesterday. We provide our students with these opportunities all the time, whether it’s presenting in class or performing in the weekly assemblies.
How do you both direct the students so that this musical also becomes a skill-building experience for their future?
Each rehearsal is a chance to learn and grow. Beyond stagecraft, we focus on problem-solving, resilience, and creative thinking. We encourage students to take feedback on board, try again, and see trial and error as part of the process. The skills they build, including perseverance, adaptability, and collaboration, go far beyond the stage. Those are the qualities that will help them in their learning at school, in future opportunities, and in everyday challenges.
Last but not least, why do you both believe primary students are never too young to start learning about respect and responsibility in a production like this?
We know at AIS that when doing a show, every part matters, from a main role to a single line to helping with props. Our students quickly realised that when they listened to each other, arrived prepared, and gave their best, the whole production came alive. For us, it’s not about big words like ‘respect’ and ‘responsibility’. Instead, it’s about kindness, teamwork, and understanding that what you do makes a difference to others.
One of the most rewarding things to see was how many students began to take real ownership of their parts, suggesting ideas, shaping their characters, and even helping to choreograph or direct moments themselves. We’re incredibly proud of what our students have achieved and deeply grateful to the whole AIS community, students, staff, and families who came together to make Mary Poppins Jr. such an incredible success.