IF you want to see the musical version of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s The Secret Garden, there is only one place in the UK you can go – and that is Altrincham Garrick Playhouse

Director, Joe Meighan, 22, said: “There are 70 shows in America and only ours in the UK.”

It’s about Mary, an orphaned girl who comes from India to England to live with her cranky uncle and, after discovering a secret garden, makes life happier for all in that spooky house including her crippled cousin,

The lyrics are by Pulitzer prize winning Marsha Norman and the music by Grammy Award winning Lucy Simon.

“The music starts off Indian style, becomes haunting and lyrical in the manor house and like folk music in the garden scenes.

“The sound is the most exciting I have ever heard,” said Joe, who was awarded NODA best director awards for his Garrick productions of Romeo and Juliet and Phantom.

Alice Cross, who plays Mary, is only eight.

“She is accomplished beyond her years and is on stage most of the time,” said Joe. “What’s more, she can manage the complicated music."

Colin, the invalid boy is played by 11-year-old Theo Hill who has just returned from a tour of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert.

The part of Archibald, the embittered widower who is Mary’s uncle, goes to Joshua Lloyd.

“It’s his first appearance with the Garrick,” said Joe.

The set, designed by Barry Purvis, will be visual and interesting with a unique garden.

“I’ve tried to make it visual for children although it is a deep and moving story which will appeal to all ages.”

* The Secret Garden is at Altrincham Garrick playhouse from March 6 – 11 with a Saturday matinee. Tickets from 0161 928 1677 or altrichamgarrick.co.uk.