The Secret Garden springs to life as Ballet Victoria brings the family classic to the Chilliwack Cultural Centre on March 30 in a production that will enrich the senses and warm the heart, the perfect show for the Easter holiday.

This timeless tale follows the story of an unruly young orphan girl who joins her brooding uncle and his ailing son at their dark and dreary Victorian home. It's not long before the adventurous young girl uncovers a hidden magical garden and the key to unlocking their listless hearts.

Flourishing with the hopeful spirit of rejuvenation, this one-act ballet accentuates the power of beauty to inspire, delight and brighten lives.

Danced to the inspiring music of Joseph Haydn trios, the story takes viewers on a journey of hope and renewal.

Dancers from Ballet Victoria celebrate the coming of spring with four passionate classical ballets in The Secret Garden and Other Works. Accompanied by live music, the delightful Secret Garden follows the beautiful "Le Corsaire" and two premiere works, "Notiflux" by Bruce Monk and "White Waltz" by the celebrated choreographer Joe Laughlin.

The second half of the program blossoms with the inspiring ballet, The Secret Garden, choreographed by artistic director Paul Destrooper. Embellished with a concert pianist and ensemble, they will perform the Haydn trio score live in this portrayal of a young girl bringing light and life to a dark and unhappy place. Orphan Mary, described as "sour faced" and "spoiled," becomes more aware of her own personality when confronted with the selfish tantrums of her feeble cousin Colin. The story examines the struggle between common sense and the accepted wisdom of the day. Servants and father appear to do more harm than good when they just accept false ideas coming from the family doctor without question. The children, by their own observations, strengthened by the rationality of Mary's maidservant's younger brother Dickon, break free of the imposed regime and triumph in the end, reinforcing the belief that positive thinking can bring about psychological and physical healing.

Both children are very affected by the simple kindness and understanding of Dickon, who lives a happy life despite being poor and emphasizes the simple benefits of fresh air, exercise and being at one with nature. From this they learn how to be kind. The Secret Garden is as uplifting as it is visually beautiful, a heart-warming story that will fill your spirit with joy.

Ballet Victoria is Vancouver Island's premier professional ballet company, which has been staging routines that stir the imagination with movement for 10 years.

Tickets for The Secret Garden and Other Works are $30 for adults, $27 for seniors and $25 for students.

Call the centre box office at 604391-SHOW (7469) for more information.