The Stage

The Secret Garden

Published Monday 7 June 2010 at 10:05 by Natalie Anglesey

The cast and crew of Heartbreak Productions - which takes outdoor productions of the classics to audiences around the country in all kinds of weather - deserve a medal.

The dedicated group of five actors, most of whom play up to five different roles, vividly brings David Kerby Kendall’s first-rate stage adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s popular children’s book to life in the colourful gardens of Wythenshawe Hall.

Fortunately the audience is seated undercover, but the actors heroically took the brunt of an initial downpour until, as the central character of spoiled brat Mary, played by Sally Brooks, entered the secret garden, magically the rain ceased, sun appeared and birds sang almost on cue.

James Edwards, who plays Dickon, a farm boy with a way with animals, brings additional laughter with his transformation into Mrs Medlock the strict housekeeper. Mary’s equally spoiled invalid cousin, Colin, is played with relish by Joe Herzfeld and the entire cast works hard both on stage and behind the scenes.

Hilary Statts’ ingenious design is transformed from a horticultural show into an Indian residence and eventually a gloomy Yorkshire mansion. But much of the renovated, flowering garden, where they all find some kind of redemption, is left to the imagination.

Director Marie McCarthy cleverly brings in just enough audience participation which, with the use of puppets, live music and great sound-effects, adds to this magical evening. Definitely worth a visit.