IT’S 1910 and spoilt, lonely Mary Lennox lives a life of luxury in India with her aristocratic parents. But when an unexpected twist of fate suddenly leaves her orphaned, she is sent to live with an unknown uncle in Misselthwaite Manor – a mysterious place – on the wild Yorkshire Moors.

With the help of some unexpected friends, Mary sets about discovering the legend of its secret garden.

With a delightful score and a menagerie of puppets, Jessica Swale’s richly imagined adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s much-loved classic The Secret Garden is a summer must-see for all ages at York Theatre Royal from July 27 to August 25.

Director Liz Stevenson restages the adaptation that was a big Christmas hit at Theatre by the Lake in Keswick. Set and costumes are designed Lily Arnold and with a score by Barnaby Race.

Liz said: ‘I am thrilled that our production of The Secret Garden will be coming to York Theatre Royal.

“It was a wonderful experience making the show in Keswick last Christmas, and to see how the audience there took the story to their hearts. It feels particularly special to now be bringing it to Yorkshire.

“Through the journey of the play we see how Yorkshire’s beautiful landscape and the warmth of its people turn Mary’s life around.

Liz added: “Jess Swale’s adaptation of this much-loved classic brings all of its magic and mystery to life on stage, and we’re excited about reviving it for York Theatre Royal this summer.”

Liz won the JMK Young Director Award in 2015 for which she was awarded the opportunity to direct her production of Barbarians at the Young Vic.

Adapter Jessica Swale is an Olivier award-winning writer and director.

The cast includes Ella Dunlop, as Mary Lennox, Matthew Durkan and Steven Roberts.

Flo Wilson reprises the role of Mrs Medford she took in the Keswick production. The cast also includes Chris Jack Keith Bartlett, Victoria Brazier, Antony Jardine, Avita Jay, Coral Sinclair and Rosalind Steele.

The Secret Garden is at York Theatre Royal from July 27 to August 25.

For tickets contact the box office on 01904 623568 or go to yorktheatreroyal.co.uk