Second Generation Theatre presents a 90-minute retelling of THE SECRET GARDEN at the Shea’s Smith Theatre with shows beginning October 14th. THE SECRET GARDEN was originally slated to be performed in June of 2020. More than two years later, not only have the cast and director changed, but the version of the show has changed as well. This version runs under two hours, keeping the heart and spirit of the original story in a format that better suits young audiences.
This is a heartfelt musical story of love, loss, and regeneration. Michael Oliver-Walline’s ability as a director to create a magical and enchanting world is a perfect match for this classic tale. SGT is poised to continue our legacy of quality, immersive experiences featuring actor debuts from an exciting ‘third generation’ with SGT Academy alum Ella Hinkin and Clark Garvey.”
Kristin Bentley, Executive Director
Both Hinklin and Garvey have been students of SGT’s theatre education program since 2017, but this is their first show with the company. Hinklin’s mother, four-time Artie Award winning actor Jenn Stafford, is also featured in THE SECRET GARDEN. This is the first time the duo has appeared on stage together.
“Doing a show with my mom is so much fun. Since I was really little I’ve heard her practicing and singing- It’s exciting to be a part of that,” says Hinklin.
Stafford had this to say. “It has been such an amazing experience getting to spend this time with Ella. I oscillate between these warm teaching/sharing moments where we get to talk about life and tinkering with art and timing, then this giving her space to be and grow and find footing times, interspersed with tsunami level waves of ugly-cry-blubbering-proud-mama feels watching what she is capable of.”
Michael Oliver-Walline returns with his directing genius 4 years after directing SGT’s incredible production of Big Fish in 2018 for a night of magic storytelling that will transport you straight to the Secret Garden. As Kelly Copps, co-founder and artistic director of SGT playing the role of Lily in this production would say, “Every performance should be a little piece of magic that you can take away with you.”THE SECRET GARDEN:Spring Version is directed & choreographed by Michael Oliver-Walline with Music Direction by Allan Paglia and features Ella Hinklin (Mary), Clark Garvey (Colin), Louis Colaiacovo (Archibald), Kelly Copps (Lily), John Panepinto (Neville), Amy Jakiel (Martha), Joe Russi (Dickon), Anne DeFazio (Mrs. Medlock), John Kreuzer (Ben), and an ensemble featuring Leah Berst, Bob Mazierski, Jenn Stafford, Collin McKee, Anthony Lazzaro, Maria Pedro, Jenny Marie McCabe, and Charles McGregor.
Full Schedule:
Friday, October 14, 7:30 pmSaturday, October 15, 2:00 pm & 8:00 pmSunday, October 16, 2:00 pmThursday, October 20, 7:30 pmFriday, October 21, 7:30 pmSaturday, October 22, 2:00 pm & 8:00 pmSunday, October 23, 2:00 pmThursday, October 27, 7:30 pmFriday, October 28, 7:30 pmSaturday, October 29, 2:00 pm & 8:00 pmSunday, October 30, 2:00 pm
Where: Shea’s Smith Theatre, 658 Main Street, Buffalo NY 14202
Tickets: General Admission $35, Seniors $30, Students $15, Group Discounts Available
Box Office: (716)508-7480 to purchase by phone or sheas.org/performances/the-secret-garden
For more information and photos, visit secondgenerationtheatre.com.
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