Little Women

In 2004 the novel written by Louisa May Alcott, which follows the lives of four sisters, was turned into a musical adapted from the book by Allan Knee, with lyrics by Mindi Dickstein, and music by Jason Howland.  The story follows the lives of four sisters and involves love, romance and ambition.  This was the first time I have ever experienced “Little Women”, having never read the novel nor seen the film.

What an experience this production was – congratulations must go to everyone involved.  All the performers were characters in their own right throughout the performance whether they were principals or company.

Lisa Simpson was simply brilliant as Jo March.  This is a lady with an incredibly superb voice and brilliant stage presence.  Every single one of her musical numbers was terrific.  I particularly liked “Small Umbrella in the Rain” with Phil Yeadon as Prof Fritz Bhaer and “Take a Chance on Me” with Ben Tomlinson as Laurie.  Both of these gentlemen are worthy of mention for their fabulous stage presence and singing voices too.

Helen Wrigglesworth as Meg, Brogan Hollindrake as Beth and Lydia Bradd as Amy, the other three sisters all complimented the piece with beautiful singing voices.

Overseeing the whole family was Laura Judge as Marmee – the backbone of the family – and her solo “Here Alone” was absolutely beautiful.  I’m sure there wasn’t a dry eye in the house at the end of this solo.

Christine Castle as Aunt March played the character with timely perfection, and her duet “Could You?” with Jo (Lisa Simpson) was superbly delivered.

Stephen Jamieson excelled in the role of Mr Laurence.  His duet “Off to Massechusetts” with Beth (Brogan Hollingdrake) made you realise that this stiff and stern elderly man had a much softer side!

Chris Slater as John Brooke (Laurie’s tutor) showed his emotional side in his duet with Meg (Helen Wrigglesworth) “More Than I Am”.

The musical numbers just kept on coming through this production.  They were simply stunning, and the Musical Director, Tom Kyle, must be congratulated for the superb direction of his orchestra.

The stunning set was designed by Peter Stebbings, and the Company were fully utilised throughout the production with extremely swift scene changes.  Lighting effects and sound superbly enhanced the production.

Donna Woodman is the very talented choreographer who ensured that the cast stayed on their skates on stage!  I’m sure this was no mean feat given the amount of space to work in given the copious amount of excellent props to work around!

“Little Women” is yet another outstanding triumph by this very talented company and Royston Bayfield the Director must be applauded for this first rate, top class production. 

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