PCPA returns to the Marian Theatre with ‘The Secret Garden’

The Pacific Conservatory Theatre (PCPA) presents its production of The Secret Garden at the Marian Theatre in Santa Maria, Thursday, Nov. 11, through Thursday, Dec. 23. Although PCPA returned to the Solvang Festival Theater for two shows over the summer, The Secret Garden marks the company’s first show at Marian since spring of 2020. 

Adapted from the classic novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, this musical follows a young orphan, Mary Lennox, whose grief is gradually overpowered by a growing curiosity about her new, mysterious home in Yorkshire, England. PCPA’s iteration of the show is directed by Roger DeLaurier and stars London Raftery and Joss Robertson, who share the role of Lennox; and Dorian Green and Mo Lopez, who share the role of Colin Craven. Additional cast members include Kitty Balay, Andrew Philpot, Erik Stein, Yusef Seevers, Emily Trask, and other PCPA regulars.

The Secret Garden is described as appropriate for ages 5 and older. Audience members over the age of 18 are required to provide their ID and proof of a full COVID-19 vaccination completed at least 14 days prior to the performance date (or proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of the performance date). All attendees, staff, and volunteers at the theater are required to wear face masks in all areas of the venue.

Health and safety precautions enacted by PCPA include an enhanced air filtration system, the availability of multiple hand sanitizer dispensers throughout the theater lobby, touchless ticketing, and other resources. At this time, no food or beverages will be sold during the show’s intermission, and patrons are also not allowed to bring in outside food or beverages.

Depending on the performance date and age of attendee, admission to The Secret Garden ranges between $15 to $46. For tickets and more info on the production and its admission policies, call (805) 922-8313 or visit pcpa.org. The Marian Theatre is located on Allan Hancock College’s Santa Maria campus, at 800 S. College Drive, Santa Maria. 

This article appears in Nov 11-18, 2021.