York Theatre Royal Announces Major Revival of ‘The Secret Garden - The Musical’ for 2026
Artwork for The Secret Garden - The Musical. Credit: Feast.
This month, the world premiere of Debbie Isitt’s Military Wives - The Musical opens, and it seems that York Theatre Royal has some more exciting news up its sleeve!
A major revival of the critically acclaimed Broadway hit The Secret Garden – The Musical with music by Lucy Simon and book and lyrics by Pulitzer Prize-winner Marsha Norman will play at the theatre in 2026.
Based on the beloved classic book by Frances Hodgson Burnett, The Secret Garden will be brought to life by a cast of actor-musicians. Set in North Yorkshire in 1906, the story follows the newly orphaned Mary Lennox who is sent to the moors to live with her widower uncle. Arriving at the secluded Misselthwaite Manor, Mary finds the house inhabited by memories and spirits from the past. The Secret Garden is a timeless story of love, loss, healing and hope.
The original Broadway production premiered at the St. James Theatre in 1991 to widespread critical acclaim, going on to win three Tony Awards and three Drama Desk Awards.
Director John Doyle said today, “I’m thrilled to be returning to York Theatre Royal and equally thrilled to be directing this beautiful, hopeful musical.”
Paul Crewes, CEO of York Theatre Royal, said today, “It is wonderful to have John Doyle return to York Theatre Royal and direct this beautiful Yorkshire story. We are excited that this will be a fresh take on this critically acclaimed musical, and that our audiences will be the first to experience it.”
The Secret Garden - The Musical will play at York Theatre Royal from 17 March - 4 April 2026. The show goes on sale to York Theatre Royal members from 1 pm on 8 September, with tickets going on general sale from 1pm on 13 September.
