Little Women

Harlequin Players Club were back on stage with their production of ‘Little Women’, which was adapted and directed by Laura Elizabeth. Taking these iconic literary characters, and transporting them to war-time Liverpool was a risk, but a risk that paid off well. Laura had a secure understanding of the original novel and this evident in the characters and the plot. The set looked very good and was used well throughout. The Liverpool skyline was depicted on a backdrop, which was used for images and film to be projected on. There was a platform centrally, which was used for different locations throughout. The Liverpool accents were strong throughout, and felt natural. Projection from the cast could have been stronger, as there were moments where you were straining to hear what was being said, especially in the quieter moments of the production. The pace of the production was good, and Laura allowed moments of the play to breathe organically. The blocking throughout was good, with some excellent stage positionings. It was pleasing to see that relationships between the characters had been developed, creating believable bonds. There was a close knit relationship between the sisterly quartet, and it was nice how these relationships developed through the production. The costumes were a strong feature of the production, transporting the audience to war-time Britain. The uniforms were especially good, adding to the authenticity of the production.

Technical aspects were well integrated into the production. Music underscored scenes, adding to the emotion of the scenes. Other sound cues were well sourced and cued well. Lighting was good and was used well throughout the production. The use of projection was imaginatively used throughout, with projections on the stage floor, as well as against the backdrop.

Taking on the role of Josephine March was Holly Jackson. This was a good interpretation of the avid writer of the sisters. Holly gave us a strong Jo, who knew what she wanted, whilst also giving Jo her tomboy attitude. Holly created believable relationships with the other characters, from her close bond with Meg and her will they/won’t they relationship with Laurie. This was a pleasing performance from Holly.

Ashleigh Corcoran played Meg March. This was a confident performance from Ashleigh, as she portrayed her character’s desire to help with the war effort. There was an excellent sisterly bond created with Holly’s Jo, and Ashleigh created a believable relationship with Andrew’s John.

Poppy Dalton played Beth March. Poppy gave an understated performance, and showed the caring side of Beth’s character. Poppy gave a sincere performance as the quieter sister, and her death struck an emotional chord with the audience, due to Poppy’s sincere performance.

Meg Billing played the older version of Amy March. The transition from younger Amy to the older version was done well, with the peg on her nose being used as the identifier for the audience. This was a well thought through performance from Meg, especially her reaction when going back home with Laurie as her new husband. The audience could sense Amy’s trepidation through Meg’s convincing performance.

Jasmine Lambert did well as the younger version of Amy March. She very much embodied the younger sister, wanting to do everything that her older sisters were doing. Well done Jasmine.

Kindah Sanderson played Marmee. Kindah was good as the matriarch of the March family. She was strong when needed, but also showed a vulnerable side to the character.

Tom Lily played Laurie. This was a convincing performance from Tom, who created a believable relationship with Holly. The scene between Tom and Holly when Laurie declares his love was well performed by both. There was a subtle change to Laurie when he appeared later on in the play, suggesting the effects of war, which was nicely handled by Tom.

Scott Watson played Fred Bhaer. Scott’s American accent was consistent in his performance. He came in with a typical American bravado, which was nicely played against the character of Jo. Again, there was a good relationship formed with Holly, as the audience watched Fred and Jo’s romance blossom.

Andrew Rauer played John Brookes. Andrew was confident in this supporting role, creating a believable relationship with Ashleigh. His letter to Meg was delivered well by Andrew, striking an emotional chord with the audience.

Overall, this was a strong production. The staging was strong, the writing was very good, and there were some great performances.

A big thank you to everyone at Harlequin Players Club for their kind invite.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.