This show holds such a special place in my heart, for it was my very first show as a high school student. I remember the challenge it was to learn this incredibly beautiful and difficult music, looking up to extremely talented upperclassmen who played the lead roles, singing and performing these characters with such passion, bringing their complicated stories to life. Being a part of The Secret Garden was where I learned what it really was to be in a "well-oiled" theatrical production and it has forever set the precedent of excellence that I strive for in performance whether on stage or behind the scenes.
Now, on the other side, as a director and adult, I see so many parts and themes from this show that I took for granted. The innocense childhood and the natural curiousity children have when it comes to trying to understand and make sense of the world around them. Suffering loss, losses so big your whole world is rocked and you just do not know how you will ever recover from what has happened. That people should come first, not duty, but that unfortunately is not always how we are able to live our lives. Learning that love is scary and sometimes hard, but it is worth everything you have within you. And, if you take the time to tend the soil, you reap the benefits of what will grow.
In sharing this beautiful story with our students, it has been such a privelege to watch them learn and grow. They have taken on this challenging production with such grace and humility, they are not afraid to do hard things or have the tough conversations regarding the dark elements within this story, and then they go and make excellent choices in how they best can bring this beautiful tale to life. They listen, analyze, practice, and then they perfect. I am beyond proud of the work they have done, and am more so, excited for you to join us in the magical experience that is our production of The Secret Garden.
I would like to dedicate this show to anyone who has experienced a loss. We hope that in experiencing this show you are able to think back on the fond memories you've shared with your loved ones and know that there is still magic to be had in this life.
- Natalie James, co-director
