While most of us are familiar with The Secret Garden either from reading the book or watching the movie, the latest musical production by The Fauquier Community Theatre brings it to life and raises the bar with a terrific cast that delivers commanding yet moving performances. 

The production, based on the book and lyrics by Pulitzer Prize-winner Marsha Norman, is a tender rendition of the original book. There is certainly a range of emotions that are covered, from sadness and anger from loss to hopefulness and the willingness to go on. This musical is an optimistic take on finding strength even in dire circumstances.

At the center of the story is young Mary Lennox. We first meet Mary in her home in India. She lives with her parents and servants. A child of privilege, she is very spoiled. Soon after we meet her she is left orphaned, as her parents and all the people she knows fall prey to a cholera outbreak. She is then sent to England to live with her uncle, a recluse who is also mourning the loss of his beautiful wife Lily.  A suggestion to go play outside leads her on a path of discovery - and ultimately to happiness and a place to belong - with the help of her new friend Dickon and the gardener Ben. She uncovers secrets inside and outside of the house, which ultimately helps the Manor's residents heal from a tragedy and discover ways to move forward together. A garden that once belonged to Archibald Craven's wife Lily, blooms again thanks to Mary's dedication, but this rebirth isn't limited to the flowers. Archibald, Mary, and her "sickly" cousin Colin experience a rebirth too.