Houston Family Arts Center to Present THE SECRET GARDEN in 2015

Houston Family Arts Center (HFAC) announces its production of THE SECRET GARDEN, withbook and lyrics by Marsha Norman, music by Lucy Simon, based on the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett and presented in a special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc. The musical will run Feb. 6 to March 1 on the Houston Family Arts Center Garza Mainstage.

Directed by Sam Brown and produced by Michael Montgomery, this award-winning musical is the story of 11-year-old spoiled orphan, Mary Lennox, as she returns to Yorkshire to live with her embittered, reclusive Uncle Archibald and his invalid son, Colin. The estate's many wonders include a magic garden which beckons the children with haunting melodies. The spirits from Mary's past guide her through her new life, helping to fully dramatize THE SECRET GARDEN'S compelling tale of forgiveness and revitalization. Mary becomes an unlikely hero when she learns to cultivate not only an abandoned garden, but also the lives of those around her. This uplifting children's classic from 1911 is a musical oasis of redemption and an odyssey of renewal.

Returning to the HFAC stage are Justin Finch (Archibald Craven), most recently seen as Bob Cratchit in A Christmas Carol, and Taylor Fisher (Albert), who was last seen as Javert in Les Miserables. The rest of this talented cast includes Starlee Brown (Mary Lennox), Elizabeth Wilson (Lily Craven), Brad Zimmerman (Neville Craven), Bethany Morgan (Martha), Gareth Bell (Colin Craven), Tyler Galindo (Dickon), Nora Hahn (Mrs. Medlock), Shamus O'Brien (Ben Weatherstaff), Laura Renfroe (Rose Lennox), J.T. Fischer (Lt. Wright), Taylor Fischer (Lt. Shaw), Megan Jackson (Alice), Candace Raphael (Mrs. Shelley), Jeffrey Hirt (Major Holmes), Sherry LaBelle (Claire Holmes) and Megan Jackson (Mrs. Winthrop). Creating the beautiful garden are Sam Brown (Director), Stephanie Wisdom (Assistant Director/Stage Manager), Michael Montgomery (Producer), Adam Delka (Music Director), Lisa Garza (Scenic Design) and Amber Stepanik (Costume Design).

Tickets are on sale now and may be purchased online at www.houstonfac.com, or by phone at 281-587-6100. Special pricing is available for groups of 10 or more. Performances are Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 3 p.m.