York Theatre Royal is currently blooming with the arrival of the Tony Award-winning musical, The Secret Garden. Based on the timeless 1911 novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, this production offers a fresh, actor-musician take on the story of Mary Lennox, an orphan sent to a gloomy Yorkshire estate who discovers a hidden world of rebirth and healing.
Directed by the legendary John Doyle—renowned for his minimalist, high-concept revivals like Sweeney Todd—this production brings the Yorkshire moors to life with a hauntingly beautiful score by Lucy Simon and lyrics by Marsha Norman. Central to the heart of the garden is the character of Ben Weatherstaff, the gruff yet soulful gardener played by the versatile Steve Simmonds.
We sat down with Steve to discuss his approach to the role, his collaboration with the cast, and why he believes “less is more” when it comes to the stage.
The Artiscape Interview: Steve Simmonds
How are you getting into character to play Ben, and what’s the biggest challenge in bringing him to life?
Steve Simmonds: I feel I’ve made the role my own by not really studying what other performers are doing. I would feel a fake doing that. I see the character as an extension of my own personality. It’s easier to improvise and ad-lib if the character you are portraying is similar to yourself. Characters like this are such an important figure in British Theatre, and I’m very honoured to have been asked to play this role at York Theatre Royal.
What does your daily routine look like when you’re preparing for a big opening night like this one?
Steve: I think it’s important to never be cruel in your comedy. My aim is to lift everyone’s spirits. I will never mock someone’s appearance or name. If I interact with the audience, I hope that it’s not something they dread. I try to make it so that they are glad they were involved when they leave the theatre. I would much prefer them to book their seats near the front on purpose in the future, in the hope they will be chosen. I would feel like I’ve succeeded if that was the case.
You’re acting and playing music at the same time—is it tough to stay in character while focusing on the instruments?
Steve: The cast this year, and every year, are a delight. Working with Paul Hawkyard again is very welcome after an hiatus last year. He is one of the funniest men I’ve ever met and I can’t wait to get on stage with him again.
What do you personally hope to bring to the character that might surprise the audience?
Steve: I’m not sure you can prepare. It’s unpredictable. The most you can consider is what is likely to happen and prep for that. However, unpredictability is part of what makes theatre so great and it keeps your performance from getting stale during a long run.
What’s the best piece of advice or “nugget of wisdom” John Doyle has given you during rehearsals?
Steve: I don’t wear a great deal of make-up for a number of reasons. Wearing a lot of make-up won’t make me any funnier. I would also rather not spend what little time I do have off over Christmas putting on and taking off my “face.”
I was once in a production many years ago and the company insisted I wear it all: false eyelashes, big lips, and blue and white eye shadow. It took me ages to put on, and we had a messy “slosh” scene just before the interval, so I would have to almost completely re-do my face for the second half. That put me off! I let my costumes do the talking and luckily for me, they are fantastic.
When the curtain falls, what’s the one feeling or message you want the audience to go home with?
Steve: I hope people leave with immense joy in their hearts. We aim to give everyone, of all ages, simply a really great evening’s entertainment. If they leave the theatre giggling and chatting about their favourite bit, I’ll be happy.
Production Details
- Show: The Secret Garden: The Musical
- Venue: York Theatre Royal
- Director: John Doyle
- Cast Includes: Steve Simmonds, Paul Hawkyard, and a multi-talented company of actor-musicians.
- Themes: Rebirth, friendship, and the magic of nature.
Tickets are available now. Experience the magic of the moors by visiting the York Theatre Royal official website.
