Actor Richard Clews tells us about playing Ben Weatherstaff in The Secret Garden at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre this summer.
Tell us a bit about The Secret Garden
It is a story of a young girl, Mary Lennox, who is isolated and at odds with the world. When she is orphaned at a young age and shipped to a dour Manor House in Yorkshire she is completely lost. However, after she discovers The Secret Garden she begins to grow, like the plants that she tends. Along with Colin, another isolated and damaged young person, she brings enlightenment to the world of Misselthwaite Manor and the community that she shares it with. Both she and Colin find a place in the world and a deeper understanding of where they belong in it.
Who do you play?
Ben Weatherstaff. A very grumpy old gardener.
What drew you to work on this production?
When I read the book I remember feeling how relevant the themes were today. I was a Dickon when I was young and very much identified with that character…a child of nature. What intrigued me was…how could this extraordinary story be developed into a stage play.
How are rehearsals going?
Very well. It is always interesting to work on a completely new piece of writing. A little like walking on virgin snow, if that makes sense.
What do you hope audiences take away from seeing this piece?
Just how important the natural world is to our health and wellbeing. That Nature has powerful restorative qualities. Let us protect and preserve it for future generations. Most of all, let us connect with it and enjoy its magic.
What’s next for you?
Well, a week after we finish here in Regent’s Park, I will be marking a big, significant birthday. I plan to spend it in a little village in Italy, a few miles outside of Rome. Bliss! What happens after that is in the hands of The Universe.
The Secret Garden runs at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre 15 June – 20 July here
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