From the pages to the stage, Frances Hodgson Burnett's classic children’s story “The Secret Garden” springs to life this summer in a full-length Tony Award-winning adaptation of the beloved novel. Sept. 1 - 3, Western Summer Theatre in Bellingham presents the enchanting classic children’s story of forgiveness and renewal re-imagined by composer Lucy Simon and Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Marsha Norman. Orphaned in India, eleven-year-old Mary Lennox is sent to Yorkshire to live with her embittered, reclusive uncle Archibald and his invalid son Colin. The estate’s many wonders include a magic garden which beckons the children with haunting melodies and spirits from Mary’s past who guide her through her new life. Unlock the gate and discover the magic on the Western Washington University MainStage. An in-concert presentation of the show, director Heather Dudenbostel and musical director Ryan Dudenbostel pull the music to center focus, placing a full 24-piece orchestra center-stage. “The story is timeless and the music is breathtaking; a perfect theatrical adventure for children of all ages,” said Heather Dudenbostel. “Our production will be performed in its entirety with all the scenes and songs, and will feature a full-sized professional orchestra.” More information about “The Secret Garden” is available online at cfpa.wwu.edu/theatredance/western-summer-theatre, on Western Summer Theatre’s Facebook page or at the Western Washington University Box Office.
