Frances Burnett, author
Thomas W. Olson, featured playwright

54 pgs. 4 female, 6 male +ensemble
Originally produced in CTC's 1988-1989 season
Audience Recommendation: 8+

A dark spell of sorrow and mystery hovers in the air as the young orphan, Mary Lennox, arrives at Misselthwaite Manor, the Yorkshire estate of her uncle Archibald Craven. The desolation of the surrounding moors, the puzzling reticence of the servants, and the grim demeanor of her uncle provide a less than warm welcome for the spoiled, friendless child. Left to her own devices, Mary takes to exploring the grounds and comes upon a walled garden, locked for over ten years. One day, a friendly robin helps Mary discover the key. Once inside, she finds what must have been the most beautiful garden in all of England. Now though, weeds grow where roses once bloomed. Mary decides that this place will be her secret refuge and she begins to tend the garden alone. Inside the manor, another secret lurks. At night, strange, haunting sounds echo down the empty corridors - is it the wind howling or a child crying? This mystery is so deep that is will take all Mary's determination and courage to solve it.

“Thomas Olson’s adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s familiar post-Victorian novel is a respectful one that effectively makes the point that love can erase the darkest experiences and memories.” – Minneapolis Star Tribune