The Secret Garden Reviews

Broadway World- Somewhat Recommended

"...If you already have tickets to The Secret Garden, there's no need to despair. The musical itself is a gem and you are sure to enjoy your evening. Just don't get your hopes up for an inventive reimagining or updated interpretation beyond what you might see from a bus and truck tour of the original."

LA Splash- Highly Recommended

"...THE SECRET GARDEN is a magical place – and a magical production. Music surrounds the tale, and Boggess’ Lily and Davis’ Archibald exhibit voices which are eerily evocative of clandestine and conflicted emotions – while spirits roam among the living. Director Carlyle helms the production with attention to fantasy but also earthly compassion, and the talented cast keep the audience constantly involved in this charming fable. At one point, when the villain of the piece receives his come-uppance, the audience actually cheered. And let’s not forget about Emily Jewel Hoder’s’ Mary, who holds her own in a very talented ensemble."

Stage Scene LA- Highly Recommended

"...Inspired direction, stunning performances, a striking production design, and sumptuous orchestrations add up to something Los Angeles musical theater lovers have been waiting decades to experience, a Broadway-caliber revival of the Tony-winning The Secret Garden."

Entertainment Weekly- Recommended

"...It is difficult, especially as a child, to give voice to grief, to understand its furrows and its seasons. As rendered in this lushly experimental production, The Secret Garden is a beautiful, affirming story about finding a language for our grief and learning how to bloom and live in hope again."

Haines His Way- Recommended

"...The trimmed book puts more of the focus on young Mary and Emily Jewel Hoder proves capable of the task. She is rarely off stage and possesses a strong stage presence to go along with her strong singing voice. Aaron Lazar also impresses as the embittered Dr. Neville, giving his villainous character a strong passive-aggressive shading. Although the cast do not get much help in creating memorable characters, they do possess the chops to make the score soar. Besides Boggess and Davis, Julia Lester and John-Michael Lyles shine."

Ticket Holders LA- Highly Recommended

"...What a treat. After having the golden opportunity to be in the opening night audience of the splendid revival of Stephen Sondheim's A Sunday in the Park with George last Sunday at Pasadena Playhouse, to be graced a week later with this luscious and gorgeously appointed revival of Marsha Norman and Lucy Simon's 1992 Tony and Drama Desk-winning The Secret Garden is almost too much for a sentimental old duffer like me to handle."

Its Not About Me- Recommended

"...All things considered, The Secret Garden is a worthwhile, quality production, so if you have the chance to see it, I say go for it. No matter if the show gets to your soul or not, I think you’ll be entertained."

Indulge Magazine- Highly Recommended

"...Frances Hodgson Burnett’s beloved children’s novel from 1911 has seen many musical revivals, winning three Tony Awards including “Best Book of a Musical.” This latest version by CTGLA is truly delightful."

The Hollywood Times- Recommended

"...The expert direction and choreography of Warren Carlyle are positively enhanced by the transcendent set design of Jason Sherwood. Additionally, the costume design of Ann Hould-Ward is period perfect, with detailed accouterments by wig and makeup designer Victoria Tinsman. With the diverse array of lovely elements coming together, the production reflects the ongoing excellence of the Center Theatre Group’s work. At the same time, it arguably is the finest production of the young season with a transportive quality that takes the audience on a journey into another world, another time, and another place."