As our gardens and plants are dying off heading into winter, South Simcoe Theatre’s (SST) musical production of The Secret Garden reminds us of the life that runs under even the grimmest situation and how it can reignite, regenerate and blossom. It is a reminder of the power of hope and the possibility of happiness.
The Secret Garden opens this Friday, Nov. 1 and runs Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. until Nov. 17, at the Old Town Hall in Cookstown, (1 Hamilton St.).
The production, book and lyrics by Marsha Norman and music by Lucy Simon are based on the classic novel by the same name written by Frances Hodgson Burnett. It is directed by Judi Erikson, with music director Ernesto De Luca.
Erickson said, “I hope the audience is filled with hope — that they can see that new growth, the power of 'wick' is in us all. When we clear away what might be impeding us; when we allow ourselves to take a new chance or see a new way; when we aspire for a better world for all people — that all lies in the power of 'wick.'”
“I hope they get songs stuck in their heads. I also hope they share with others about what a great theatre production this is, for young and old, and inspire their friends, workmates and family to come and see The Secret Garden,” she added.
The story follows young Mary, who was orphaned in India and returns to England to live with her reclusive uncle and his disabled son. The children are beckoned by the estate's magic garden and spirits from Mary's past who dramatize the play’s themes of forgiveness and renewal.
This is a very large production with 23 cast members and many more supporting members in various behind-the-scenes roles. It is reminiscent of how a garden thrives with complementary plants, various pollinators, water, the sun and the richness of soil that combine to create a splendid garden.
All the live musicians, the costumers, the set design and builders, props crews, movement directors, the producer, the director, stage manager, lighting and sound designer and operators, and many more put their talents toward creating a splendid show. They add nutrients to the talent of the performers.
In discussing the role of the music director, Erickson said, “Ernesto De Luca, is a joy to work with. This is my fourth show working with him, and I couldn't ask for a better team player. I am amazed at how he teaches individuals about their own vocal strengths and how to work around their weaknesses. He is a major influence and has worked intensely to make The Secret Garden sound as fantastic as it does. This also includes his choice of musicians, who are a major feature in the richness of this musical story.”
As is often the case, with music comes movement. Movement director, Sabrina Merks, was assisted by Aidan Eddy in showcasing how a large cast can move in a limited space, and in coordinated and captivating ways.
Erickson said: “Directing all of these people is like being a ship's captain — sometimes you just have to delegate. That is not one of my strong suits.
"Luckily, I work with individuals who are able to 'run' with a project and come back with terrific results. I must specifically include Sabrina ... in this, as without them (and Aidan) the stage would not ring with the dance and movement they so generously created for this show.”
As assistant to Merks, Eddy said, “From the get-go, it was such a welcoming and uplifting experience. The cast really loves this show, and it was so fun to get to see them go from being in a position of maybe not the most confident dancers, to being able to pull off things that were truly just such a spectacle to see on such a small stage.”
The set design allows the cast to move around the stage more easily than something more complicated.
“I hope the simplified set look is a gift to the audience," Erickson said. "I wanted the emphasis to be on the cast, musicians and tech crew, who make the real magic happen.”
As with any production, what makes a show blossom is the audience.
Tickets for The Secret Garden may be purchased online or by calling the box office at 705-458-4432 or emailing [email protected].
The show is recommended for ages 10 and older.
SST encourages patrons to bring a donation for its food drive.
SST is offering both post-show talk-backs and relaxed performances for each production this season. For more information visit thesouthsimcoetheatre.com.
Rosaleen Egan is a freelance journalist, storyteller, and playwright. She blogs on her website: rosiewrites.com.
