By Audrey Miller | Photo by Callie Lythgoe
They say the best things are kept secret, but I must spoil something big: the Susquehanna University Department of Theater is truly a hub for genius. This was proven by their spring musical The Secret Garden. This performance was a mixing pot of talent, combining the stage presence from the Department of Theatre and the transformative, magical notes from the Department of Music. From vocal powerhouses lighting up the stage to the extraordinary live orchestra, this show was unmissable.
The Secret Garden is a Tony Award-winning musical written by Marsha Norman and Lucy Simon, which is based on Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic novel. This rendition of the show was directed by Associate Professor of Theatre, Dr. Anna Andes. The performances were held in the Degenstein Center Theater and occurred on Mar. 19, 20, and 21 at 7:00 p.m., with a matinee on Mar. 22 at 2:00 p.m.
The Secret Garden is a musical that takes place in 1906. It follows a young, spoiled girl named Mary Lennox who is forced to move from her home in Colonial India to Misselthwaite Manor in Yorkshire, England following the passing of her parents due to cholera. In the large, haunted mansion, Mary lives with her closed-off Uncle Archibald. An angry Mary explores the Mansion’s gardens, and one day finds a locked, ‘secret’ garden that has been neglected for many years. Her journey to transform the garden goes hand in hand with her personal transformation, as well as the healing of her sick cousin Colin and a grieving Uncle Archibald. The garden acts as a symbol that love and hope will always persevere through dark times.
I was fortunate enough to get a seat in the very packed theatre during the matinee show on Mar. 22. While sitting down, it was impossible to ignore the skill that was seeping out of the orchestra pit. The live music was magical and allowed the viewers to be alongside the performers through every song and line. The collaboration was nothing but necessary and extremely impressive.
There is no doubt that this show was cast perfectly. Lead actress Annie Sullivan, who played Mary Lennox, was committed throughout the show. Through animation, a British accent, and youthful attitude, Sullivan transformed into Mary, making the viewers get lost in her performance. Actor Evan Finkbeiner, who played Uncle Archibald Craven, has a voice that carries the professionalism and maturity you would compare to a long-time performer. Finkbeiner’s vocals added depth and rich emotion to each song.
Two other performers I must highlight are Madeline Widnick, who played the ghost of Lily, Archibald’s late wife, and Victoria Hall, who played Martha, the independent, supportive maid. Widnick’s opera-like vocals haunted the stage as she sang with such purpose and power. She owned the attention of every song she contributed to as her voice was unlike anything I have ever heard before. And Hall’s voice contained energy and satisfaction through each lyric. She was funny and optimistic, holding an attractive, bright vitality.
The songs and dialogue flowed coherently. The set, costumes, and lighting held a voice of their own. The lighting, led by Jen Rock, allowed each scene to transform and hold personality. For instance, in scenes set in the garden, the green lighting alluded to grass being underneath the actors’ feet. The set, created by Erik Viker and his team, was elaborate, with one side being a white, jaded staircase, and the other being stones in the garden, adding depth to each scene.
The costumes themselves were detailed and breathtaking. Costume Design was headed by Callie Lythgoe. The dress Lily wore was a beautiful blush with a sheer layer that looked almost holographic. Each costume was accurate to the time and impressive. I am truly amazed by the talent in each and every department within the theatre.
Overall, this show was nothing short of great. Emotionally, it was complex. Visually, it was detailed and evocative. Vocally, the show was a knockout. The professional that is held on and off the stage is unlike anything I have ever seen. I truly recommend going to the shows as there is nothing like live theater, and there is nothing better than seeing your friends and classmates performing on stage.
To close off the main stage season, the final show that the Susquehanna University Department of Theatre will put on is The Lion in Winter. The show will run from Apr. 24 to 26. For more information visit Theatre Productions – Susquehanna University.
Credits:
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgeson Burnett
Book & Lyrics by Marsha Norman
Music by Lucy Simon
Directed by Dr. Anna Andes
Assistant Directed by Isabella Lapetina
Stage Management by Natalie Dreyer
Scenic Design by Erik Viker
Costume Design by Callie Lythgoe
Assistant Costume Design by Ava Straub
Lighting Design by Jen Rock
Music Direction by Dr. David Steinau
Photos by Callie Lythgoe