Sherman, Texas -- The seeds are being planted Monday and Tuesday, July 18 and 19 by the Children’s Chorus of Greater North Texas in conjunction with Theater For Hope and the Art Club Studio’s September production of The Secret Garden.

The enchanting, Tony Award-winning musical based on Frances Hodgson Burnett’s 1911 novel is a compelling tale of forgiveness and renewal.  The music and lyrics are written by Marsha Norman with additional music by Lucy Simon.

Orphaned 10 year-old Mary Lennox is sent to live at Misselthwaite Manor with her embittered, reclusive uncle Archibald and his disabled son Colin when her parents are killed by cholera in India.  At Misselthwaite Manor, Mary is left on her own and begins to explore its many wonders which include a mysterious garden that beckons her with its haunting melodies and the “Dreamers,” spirits from Mary’s past who guide her through her new life.  In the end, after discovering the key and gate to Lilly’s locked garden (the secret garden), Mary finds renewed strength and hope as she helps to nurse the neglected garden back to life, as well as everyone else she touches.

Auditions will be held at Hope on Houston at 901 E. Houston Street in Sherman, TX.  Auditioners are asked to prepare a minute’s worth of a song to sing, as well as read a selection from the script.  If one is trying out for a lead part, then they are requested to sing a song from The Secret Garden score which will be provided by Theater For Hope’s directors upon request.  Also, an accompanist will be provided at the auditions.

A list of the characters, vocal ranges, and songs are attached with this e-mail.  If further questions, please contact Webster Crocker at webstercrocker@yahoo.com.

Come help Theater For Hope, the Children’s Chorus of Greater North Texas, and the Art Club Studio to grow and blossom at Hope on Houston with music, color, dance, and theater in The Secret Garden which performs September 8,9,10.