THE SECRET GARDEN to Close Cinnabar Theater 53rd Season

Cinnabar Theater will conclude its 53rd season with The Secret Garden, a beloved musical by Marsha Norman and Lucy Simon, based on the classic novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett. This production runs June 12–28, 2026, at Warren Theater, located in Ives Hall on the campus of Sonoma State University.

Directed by Jane Erwin, The Secret Garden tells the story of Mary Lennox, a young girl sent to live with her reclusive uncle in a vast English manor following the loss of her parents. Lonely and headstrong, Mary discovers a hidden, neglected garden, and through her determination to bring it back to life, she awakens not only the beauty of the world around her, but the hearts of those within it. With the help of newfound friends, Mary embarks on a journey of healing, connection, and renewal.

Featuring a sweeping and emotional score, this production brings the magic of the garden to life through evocative storytelling and rich musicality. Both intimate and expansive, The Secret Garden explores themes of resilience, grief, and the transformative power of love and nature.

The cast features Violet Spears as Mary Lennox; Serena Ridout as Alternate Mary Lennox; Nathanael Koross as Colin Craven; Joe Schulze as Alternate Colin Craven; Ben Sasnett as Archibald Craven; Syona Ayyankeril as Lily; Katie Veale as Rose/Dreamer; Nicole Stanley as Martha; Tika Moon as Mrs. Medlock; Jonathan Spencer as Ben Weatherstaff; Beckett Hepp as Dickon; Natalie Burton as Claire/Dreamer; Miriam Valencia as Alice/Dreamer; Kathi Brotemarkle as Mrs. Winthrop/Dreamer; David A. Bradbury as Albert/Dreamer; Noah Evans as Major Holmes & Shelly/Dreamer; Corey Wilson as Lt. Shaw/Dreamer; Mason Hunt as Lt. Wright/Dreamer; and Zachary Hasbany as Neville.

Behind the scenes, the creative team includes Jane Erwin as director; Brett Strader as music director; Elise Clark as stage manager; John Sheridan as assistant stage manager; Ross Tiffany-Brown as technical director; April George as lighting designer; Mateo Felix as prop designer; Donnie Frank as Costume Designer and hair/makeup designer; with Peter Crompton as set designer. Leading Cinnabar Theater are Diane Dragone, Executive Director, and Nathan Cummings, Artistic Director.

The Secret Garden is appropriate for all ages and especially recommended for families with children aged 8+. With its timeless story and breathtaking music, this production invites audiences into a world where even the most hidden places can bloom again.