The Open Air Theatre’s production of “The Secret Garden” had its opening night on a gloriously warm summer evening, with no wuthering to be heard. It’s surprising that this enchanting venue hasn’t adapted Frances Hodgson Burnett’s 1911 novel before, as the setting feels practically tailor-made for it. The natural surroundings even allow for the possibility of a real robin joining the performance.

This new adaptation by Holly Robinson and Anna Himali Howard (who also directs) retains the Edwardian setting while introducing thoughtful revisions. Mary Lennox (Hannah Khalique-Brown), the young heroine, arrives in Yorkshire from India, carrying the baggage of colonial entitlement following her parents’ death from cholera.

Revisiting Burnett’s “A Little Princess” raised questions about the racial identity of its protagonist, and this adaptation takes a similar approach. Mary and her cousin Colin (Theo Angel) are the children of Indian sisters married to white British men, belonging to the ruling class yet distinct.

The first half of the play is somewhat bogged down by an all-company narration with lines often delivered in unison, dictating the audience’s thoughts and feelings. The second half, however, is stronger and lighter, though the production would benefit from a quicker pace and a 15-minute reduction in length (ending at 10:15pm isn’t ideal for families).

This adaptation also critiques Burnett’s treatment of disability and her theosophical and Christian Science influences. The character Dickon (played by disabled actor Brydie Service), described as “a creature of the moors,” walks with a stick due to a childhood illness. Colin’s wheelchair, modern-looking, symbolizes dignity and freedom, enabling a fulfilling life. Archibald Craven (Jack Humphrey) suffers from “palsies,” and his brother Dr. Harold Craven (George Fletcher) has a stammer. Disabilities aren’t seen as tragedies, and empathy, a relatively new concept in Burnett’s time, is emphasized.

The spiritual aspect remains intact. Sharan Phull, dressed in a red sari, represents the Robin and the protective spirit of the late Lata Craven. “The Magic” is depicted through interpretive dance, promoting self-empowerment and physical well-being.

Khalique-Brown and Angel convincingly portray children, with Khalique-Brown’s Mary strong-willed and Angel’s Colin cherubic when he chooses to be. Molly Hewitt-Richards shines as the no-nonsense housemaid Martha, Amanda Hardingue’s Mrs. Medlock mellows believably, and Richard Clews provides charm as Ben Weatherstaff.

Leslie Travers’s set design features plants made from paper streamers and garlands, relying on Jai Mojaria’s warm-hued lighting for atmosphere after sunset. The homespun animal representations, such as a jumper becoming a fox, add a whimsical touch. The most striking visual is Mary’s transformation from a dour navy-blue dress to a pink frock, symbolizing her character’s growth.

While the production is innovative and vibrant, it could benefit from more directorial refinement to fully showcase Robinson and Howard’s sensitive adaptation. Nonetheless, the few tears shed at the end were not due to hay fever.

“The Secret Garden” runs at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre until 20 July. Book tickets on London Theatre.