What Is The Main Contribution Of The Robin To The Plot Of The Secret Garden

Secret Garden Photo

The Northern Arizona University Department of Theatre is launching
its 2018-19 season with The Secret Garden, based on Frances Hodgson Burnett's beloved 1911 novel. The
play is directed by Professor Robert Yowell and adapted for stage by Arizona Playwright Pamela Sterling.
"This enchanting story will fill the theatre with magic, mystery and music. It gently teaches audiences of all
ages about the healing power of nature and how human connection and boundless love are important to us
all," says Director Robert Yowell.
The Secret Garden is about young Mary and Colin who have been ignored, and become sad and difficult.
Together they discover how being kind can open doors to happiness. They begin to thrive and are encouraged
by the household staff: warmhearted Yorkshire maid, Martha, and her brother, Dickon, as well as Ben, the
crusty, old gardener who understands the language of birds, animals and flowers. A perky "Robin" leads
Mary to the secret garden that changes her life.
The role of the Robin is designed by Theatre Professor Kate Ellis, who has studied puppetry from many
cultures and teaches the subject for NAU Theatre. "The Robin is a delightful and charming character that will
certainly be a hit with the audience of all ages," Yowell says.
About 40 students and faculty bring the classic story to life. The Secret Garden is choreographed by the
newest member of the NAU Performance faculty, Rebecca Whitehurst. The cast includes nine actors,
including graduating seniors Kristi Garcia, Kara Hunt, Hadley Singer and CJ Whitmore; junior performance
students, Erin Haroun, Ashley Frederickson, Spencer Beckwith and Brad Posey, and one of the newest
Theatre members, freshman Nate Gayan. The backstage crew, production staff, and Stage Managers include
students from all levels, including graduating senior Gabe Guevara, who is completing his Senior Capstone in
Stage Management.
The Secret Garden is performed at 6 p.m. October 12; 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. October 13; 2 p.m. October 14; 6 p.m.
October 19, and at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. October 20, and 2 p.m. October 21, in the Clifford E. White Theater.
NAU Theatre Season tickets are available through the opening of The Secret Garden. Individual tickets are $8
student/youth, $14 general admission, $12 seniors, NAU faculty and staff. For tickets go to the NAU Central
Ticket Office. Access the ticket office online at nau.edu/cto, by phone at 928.523.5661, or go the office in the
University Union on the Flagstaff campus. CTO fees are applied at the point of sale.