The Secret Garden - Musical

‘The Secret Garden’ ran for 700 performances on Broadway and is a childrens story turned into a musical. The UK Premiere by RSC Stratford in 2000 and transferred to West End Aldwych 2000. The book and lyrics are difficult to transfer to the stage but the music is delightful and was beautifully acted and sung by a very talented cast. Steve Miller (Archie Craven) excelled in this darkly serious role and his duet “Lily’s Eyes” with Paul Tapley (Dr. Craven) was superbly performed and was the musical highlight of the show. The two children Sophie Rankin (Mary Lennox) and Becky Pouton (Colin Craven) on the night, superbly carried their large roles both acting and singing. These roles were played on alternate nights with two other children Gigi George (Mary) and Charlotte Rushforth (Colin) both of whom were praised by people who had seen their performances. Susie Inskip (Lily) was charming and has a beautiful voice and her duet “How Could I Ever Know “ with Archie was tenderly and poignantly sung. Paul Turvey (Dickon), Hannah Bengough (Martha), Louise Horne (Rose) were all in fine voice and the smaller roles in the twenty three strong cast were all well performed. Chorus and Dancers, Orchestra, Backstage, Font of house, Lighting and Sound all contributed to this outstanding production. As I said earlier a difficult show to stage and sing but this fine Company made light of the difficulties and gave us a night to remember.  

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