Based on the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, The Secret Garden was performed by the Christian Youth Theatre (CYT) of Spiritual Twists Productions (STP) at Colonial, February 25-27. STP has been producing plays for more than 22 years and has come a long way since their early days. From 22 children in its first year, STP has now grown to include more than 200 performers and crew. Typically, auditions are not held for performances. In lieu of traditional auditioning, students will first train, and later perform an audition for the play they will ultimately take part in. One purpose of STP-CYT was stated on the play program: “With God as our central focus, we begin with prayer and a devotional that correlates a Biblical concept to a theater concept.” 

If you’ve never read the book or seen the play, here’s how the story unfolds: Sickly Mary Lennox (Janelle Hamo), a recent orphan, is sent to live with her only remaining relative, the miserable Archibald Craven (Derek Conklin). Mary is befriended by the chambermaid, Mrs. Sowerby (Katie Billheimer). Mrs. Sowerby tells Mary about a secret garden located on her uncle’s property; the garden was cherished by the late Mrs. Craven.

Mary discovers a key to the garden and, upon entering, finds it has been suffering neglect for a decade. Mrs. Sowerby’s brother, Dickon (Davis Rodeniser), a boy with a knack for growing things, helps Mary restore the garden’s beauty.

Through a series of twists, Mary meets Colin, her uncle’s invalid son, and he too begins helping in the garden. Both Mary and Colin improve their health and interest in living, with hard work in the garden. When Colin’s father discovers how Colin has improved, he begins to see that he can find happiness again. As the program promises, The Secret Garden is "a perfect vehicle to show what happens to a dead and dying life when the 'Sonlight' is allowed to shine in."

With success comes challenges. Veteran director and STP-CYT founder Natalie Snapp has experienced a few. “Probably the biggest challenge has been getting churches to open up to us. That’s not because they didn’t like what we were doing, it’s because they haven’t been able to fit us into their programming. And Colonial has been great about that. I think [another challenge is] really just trying to stay with a solid focus of Christian material. A lot of people have approached us about doing other material…we’re really very focused on making sure that our material glorifies God.” Reflecting on her students Natalie said, “They’re learning that all their gifts and talents come from Him and they are to use them to serve Him. That’s what we’re about!”

STP provides wholesome well produced entertainment with a purpose. Pastor Scott Wylie said, “We plan to become a long-term partner with STP-CYT and encourage Colonial families to attend their performances.”

After one weekend performance of The Secret Garden actress Emily Wetmore (Mrs. Shales) said, “What I’ve learned is that you can really glorify God in what you do. Even though it may sound scary, you may feel nervous—you get comfortable as you act on stage. It’s a chance to glorify God and get your message out.”   

If you missed The Secret Garden, Colonial will be hosting future performances produced by Spiritual Twists Productions—be sure to check them out. Planned productions include Ruth and Les Miserables.