The Secret Garden will be reimagined at The Egg Theatre, Theatre Royal Bath this summer in a new disability-led production adapted by Tom Wentworth and directed by Stephanie Kempson.
Running from 2 to 26 July 2026, the production places inclusivity, nature and friendship at its heart, transforming The Egg into an immersive, sensory world filled with original music and animal puppetry.
Based on Frances Hodgson Burnett’s beloved novel, the story follows Mary as she arrives at Mistlethwaite Manor to find a house and gardens closed off from the world.
Determined and curious, Mary uncovers hidden secrets including Colin, a disabled boy whose protection has left him isolated, and together with Martha and Dickon they bring a forgotten garden back to life while making it accessible for all.
Jack Hunter plays Colin, a role which sees the character represented as ambulatory, using both a wheelchair and walking, helping to spark conversations with young audiences around inclusion and kindness.
The production sits at the heart of The Egg’s Secret Gardens season, a year-long programme marking the venue’s 20th anniversary with sensory-led experiences across the Southwest for children and young people.
Writer Tom Wentworth said, “I always dreamed of adapting one of my favourite children’s books The Secret Garden for the stage – and now it’s happening! This brand new production directed by Stephanie Kempson, is a story of friendship, acceptance and secrets, all told through the prism of a garden – and the magic that occurs when we accept others and ourselves. It is as relevant today as when Frances Hodgson Burnett wrote the original novel, and I hope this adaptation delights children and adults alike, especially those who are bedbound or hospitalised like I was as a child. Stories played a vital role in my recovery and the person I’ve become today, and if my adaptation ignites one child’s imagination so they can create stories for themselves, I will have done a good job!”
The creative team includes composer Ben Osborn, designer Kat Heath and puppetry director Cat Rock, with a cast led by Bilqees Khalid as Mary alongside Alice Barclay, Martin Bonger, Daneka Etchells and Daniel Forbes.
All performances will be relaxed, with audio described shows scheduled for 23 and 25 July, and the production is recommended for audiences aged six and above.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
