Secret Garden

I've always wanted to play Dicken in that version of the show. He's got some really awesome song.

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As I remember it, it was a long dull evening of theatre. Yawn. I think it has had the life it has beyond Broadway is because of the publics familiarity with the original book/movie.

I think 'Secret Garden' is a show that proves the power of the cast album. It's a GREAT cast album that makes the show seem a lot better than it truly is. It's a confused show, to be sure. It starts off abstract and nearly sung thru, blasts the audience with numbers that do nothing but provide excuses for exposition, then clunks into a handful of dull book/song scenes that stop the momentum cold. It's songs are overwrought but do well out of context so much that people convince themselves they work in context as well. Which they might if they had a sensible book surrounding them and were part of a show with a pace and a pulse that built to moments, rather than just having them. 'Lily's Eyes' is a glorious song but, really, it doesn't add much to the show. Archie hardly needs another song to express his longing for his wife and Neville's given shading that the rest of the show ignores.

It seems like a lot of people worked way too hard on 'Secret Garden.' Their labors are right there for all of us to struggle through. It's a decent show but has the potential to be something off the charts. It just never reaches it. But it sure sounds nice.

valid observations Poppa! True, unless you're familiar with the book/ story, with the stage version one can a bit "lost" or bored in the actual dialogue and placement of some of the songs. The movie makes the live show more a familiar and enjoyable piece, though, don't you think?

Yes, I agree that it COULD be a classic winner with some tweaking and an awesome cast. But in defense of those seeking a lovable musical with all the componets that make it lovable...It IS! in my eyes, at least.

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"lily's eyes" is a wonderful song! 2 wonderfully talented friends of mine are singing it next tuesday night at our concert. I also love "How could i ever know"...everytime i hear it, it makes me cry.