2nd Street Players’ ‘Secret Garden’ Sells Out: A Blooming Success for Milford’s Downtown Arts Scene

MILFORD, DE — Every seat is spoken for as The Secret Garden opens this weekend at the Riverfront Theater, with all three performances on July 18, 19, and 20 completely sold out. The Second Street Players’ summer musical has captured the hearts of local audiences, once again affirming the theater’s vital role in Milford’s cultural life.

Based on the beloved novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, The Secret Garden follows orphaned Mary Lennox as she transforms a sorrow-filled English estate through the discovery of a hidden, magical garden. The musical adaptation by Lucy Simon and Marsha Norman originally debuted on Broadway in 1991, winning three Tony Awards and earning praise for its emotional depth and stirring score.

Leading the cast is Scarlett Gleason as Mary Lennox, joined by Lorraine Leavel as Lily, John H. Hulse as Archibald Craven, Chris Ennis as Dr. Neville Craven, Benjamin Rose as Colin, and Avery Richard as Dickon. The ensemble of “Dreamers” and supporting cast brings the story to life with powerful performances and rich vocals, supported by a live orchestra under the direction of Gail Betton Kelso.

The Riverfront Theater, home to Second Street Players, is located at 2 South Walnut Street along the Mispillion River. With only 140 seats, the venue offers an intimate, up-close theater experience and is known for its friendly volunteers, concession offerings — including wine and beer — and welcoming atmosphere.

The buzz surrounding The Secret Garden is part of a larger trend for Second Street Players, who have consistently drawn strong audiences for their year-round productions of musicals, dramas, comedies, and family shows.

“Second Street Players are doing everything right — they’re an incredible asset to our downtown,” said Sade Truiett, coordinator for Downtown Milford, Inc. “They bring people into town, they support local businesses, and they create unforgettable experiences for residents and visitors alike. We’re proud to have them as part of Milford’s vibrant cultural community.”

The all-volunteer theater company plays a key role in driving foot traffic to nearby shops and restaurants, especially during show weekends. Their success is a reflection not only of artistic excellence but also of strong community engagement.

If you didn’t get tickets to The Secret Garden, you’ll have more chances to experience the magic of local theater in Milford. Upcoming productions include:

• Villain School (August 29–31, 2025): A playful romp through the world of storybook villains

• Little Shop of Horrors (October 10–19, 2025): A cult classic with a carnivorous plant and killer tunes

• The Homecoming (November 28–December 7, 2025): A heartwarming holiday tale based on The Waltons

For full cast, ticket details, and ways to get involved — on stage or behind the scenes — visit secondstreetplayers.com.