The School District of Rhinelander Drama Department presents The Secret Garden, Thursday, Feb. 28 through Sunday, March 3. The play is based on the book written in 1911 by Francis Hodgson Burnett, who also wrote Little Lord Fauntleroy and A Little Princess.

The story involves the life of Mary Lennox, who is sent to live at her uncle’s estate in England after her parents pass away.  Misselthwaite Manor turns out to be a gloomy fortress. But, to her surprise, Mary discovers a strange walled garden that has been locked up for years. With the assistance of Dickon, the gardener’s apprentice, Mary brings the garden back to life.

Co-director Roddy MacMillan says creating a ‘secret garden’ was quite a laborious task. “I believe we grabbed every artificial plant, shrub, flower and bush in Oneida County! We’ve worked long and hard on the set, which hopefully will impress the crowds and help enhance the entire theatrical experience.”

Performances for The Secret Garden will be held at the John and Dori Brown Performing Arts Center in the Rhinelander High School Thursday, Feb. 28, Friday, March 1 and Saturday, March 2 at 7 p.m., with a matinee on Sunday, March 3 at 1 p.m. Tickets are $5 at the door. ​