By: Amanda Meade-Tatum

Based on Frances Hodgson Burnett’s 1922 novel, The Secret Garden tells the story of Mary Lennox, a young girl who becomes an orphan after her family is affected by the cholera outbreaks. Nowhere to go, Mary is sent to live with her solitary uncle at this country estate. There, Mary’s curiosity reveals the past of her uncle’s family and his troubled home. An adventure awaits you with a message about love and family.

The Broadway-aimed revival production that offers stunning visuals is magical storytelling. Moving at a good pace, the novel fits well as a stage production. Lucy Simon’s lyrics embody a new approach to the beloved characters, offering high-standard characterization. Director and Choreographer Warren Carlyle attention to detail is at its finest, but a few adjustments could help the musical head in a better direction. For example, some of the ensemble entrances and blocking is distracting, which disconnects the audience from fairly significant plot points.

Everyone in the cast puts their best foot forward to bring the beloved character alive, but Julia Lester and Sierra Boggess’s performances shine like the top of the Empire State Building. Sierra’s harmonies are a fairy tale come true. Her presence dominates the stage. She is worth the ticket price itself. Lester’s humor is witty. She is a charm. Her comedic timing is perfect. She is present at the right time, creating great laugh-out-loud moments when the story seems to be turning sour or dull.

Overall, “The Secret Garden” is captivating from beginning to end. A true message about love, forgiveness, and family presents itself, creating a guaranteed smile once you leave the theater. Do not miss the Broadway Bound production of the classic novel. To buy tickets, click here