The Secret Garden Musical at The Little Theatre, Leicester Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Katy Nettleton
The Little Theatre in Leicester has outdone itself with its staging of The Secret Garden Musical, enchanting audiences from the 22nd to the 27th of March and again from the 3rd to the 6th of April. This adaptation, crafted by Marsha Norman and Lucy Simon from Frances Hodgson Burnett’s beloved novel, serves as a bridge across generations, reawakening cherished memories for some and crafting new ones for others. As someone who cherished this story in childhood, it was a joy to share this experience with my daughter, introducing her to the magical world of The Secret Garden for the first time.
The production’s success lies not just in its faithful adaptation or the nostalgic pull of the narrative but also in its innovative staging. With clever use of lighting and the entirety of The Little Theatre’s intimate space, the production team created a world that was both expansive and inviting, ensuring that the story’s heart was felt in every corner of the venue. The choreography was pure brilliance and raised the production to another level.
Olivia King as Mary Lennox brought an incredible depth to her character, her performance resonating with the audience and leading us through Mary’s journey with empathy and strength. Alongside her, Rose Bale’s ethereal portrayal of Lily and the nuanced performances of Russell Webster and Edward Lander as Dr. Neville Craven and Colin Craven, respectively, added layers of complexity to the narrative, exploring themes of loss, redemption, and the transformative power of kindness.
Amid the stellar cast, Martin Ben’s portrayal of Ben Weatherstaff was a standout, infusing the show with humour, heart, and, quite literally, flowers. Ben’s performance was a delightful embodiment of the gruff yet kind-hearted gardener, providing not only comic relief but also moments of profound wisdom and tenderness. His interaction with the garden and the characters transformed the set into a character in its own right, embodying the healing power of nature that is central to the story.
The musical’s score, with its complex harmonies and moving solos, was brought to life by an exceptionally talented cast, whose voices filled the theatre with the story’s emotional and thematic richness. The integration of music, narrative, and performance in The Secret Garden Musical was seamless, making the production a holistic experience that was both entertaining and deeply moving.
The Secret Garden Musical at The Little Theatre is not just a performance but an invitation to rediscover the magic hidden in everyday life and the healing power of nature. It reminds us that within every seemingly ordinary moment or place, there’s potential for extraordinary growth and rejuvenation. This production, with its humour, heart, and horticultural marvels, leaves a lasting impression, urging us to explore and cherish the secret gardens in our own lives.
Awarding this production a 5 out of 5 feels like an understatement. It was a journey back to childhood for some and an introduction to a magical world for others. I hope to see this enchanting production make its way to a national stage, accompanied by a live band to enhance the already profound narrative and performances. Martin Ben, along with the entire cast, showcased that the essence of storytelling lies in the ability to connect with the audience’s heart, regardless of the stage’s size.
Tickets can be purchased at: https://www.thelittletheatre.co.uk/whats-on/the-secret-garden-the-musical/ or you are able to call the box office on: 0116 255 1302, with tickets starting at £16. This is a show not to miss.
Rating: 5/5