I just saw Mary Poppins last Saturday and was not expecting to like it as much as I did. I much preferred it over the child-friendly Disney movie and really hope they don't change it too much in the Broadway version. They probably will though because of a perceived need to Americanize it (dumb it down) to appeal to middle America and tribes of annoying children.
Temper, Temper is a great song. I can see why this scene would be a little frightening to kids because it shows the kids being "attacked" by the toys. Then again, I don't think the show is meant for kids under 7 or so anyway. They would get bored (like the kid who sat in front of me, though remained pleasantly quiet).
On the cast recording issue, I think Ashley Brown is a talented vocalist but I find the London recording to be practically perfect. I don't think a new one is necessary.
"Why do you care what people might say? Why try to fit into their design?" (Side Show)