LITTLE WOMEN

 

A first time directorial role for both ladies, who I am sure benefitted from the input of their Creative Director and more experienced members of the cast – however, that does not take away from the fact that they created a very good production.  The book was one of my absolute favourites, and seeing it brought to the stage reminded me of its charm, with pointers to relationships and overcoming problems. 

The set was very well-thought out and once again scene changes were choreographed and carried out with precision by the stage manager and her assistant.  The set was redolent of the era, and very nicely dressed, with the flickering fire holding the interest during action and set changes, along with well-chosen background music – giving a real nod to the overall feel of the piece 

Costumes were mostly in keeping with the era – fairly muted colours, but good-looking.  Hair was mostly good, although I felt Beth’s needed to be tidier around her face, as it obscured her face somewhat, and I do need to see faces, especially when they are promising so much expression.  Mr March looked extremely well-turned out, considering his actual age and the age of the man he was playing.

Marmee (Tracey McNevin) as the lynchpin of the family was very much the matriarch, both stern, forgiving and loving, whilst keeping everything completely natural – a lovely portrayal.

Aunt March (Sue Jones) was so bleak, showing a harsh and gloomy character, a real contrast to the other ladies of the cast, well done!

Hannah (Debbie Cavanagh) had the right blend of deference for a retainer and the familiarity that comes with length of service. 

Laurie (Mark Eyles), a first role I believe, and whilst he got the rather withdrawn and quite young man well, I needed a little more projection and confidence at times, to really make his mark.  That said I got the essence of the young and slightly unsure man, who was being brought out of himself by the irrepressible Jo.

Mr Brooke (Marc Rolfe) a lovely characterisation which, showing understanding of the passion and gentleness of the man – delivered with confidence and aplomb.

Mr Lawrence (Phil Baker) – showed his undoubted experience of the ‘forbidding’ gentleman, gradually softening in his attitudes under the auspices of the girls!  Good to see Phil back on stage.

Mr March (Nico Whitney-Bamford) – such a different role for Nico, and one which (although small) he accomplished at short notice with great aplomb – I was very impressed.

Finally, but importantly – the Little Women, a lovely family unit featuring all the nuances of sisters, their love and arguments well-played out, with them being typically girly when required, and responsibility creeping in too.  Jo (Katie Barton), strong and vocal, perhaps a little too loud at times, but a good foil to the other ‘girls’ and Laurie, who was able to be ‘young’ when with Jo.  Meg (Carla Kedzierski) more measured in her opinions, but blossoming when challenged by Aunt March, and growing to understand her feelings for Mr Brooke, whilst trying to manage the others.  Beth (Carly Shotbolt) was very much the young girl protected by her sisters, she acted the scarlet fever episode well, and was very charming.  With Amy (Ella Sarti) portraying a young girl at that inbetween age, wanting to be included in the more adult pursuits, not considered old enough, very well-achieved.   

What shone through was the closeness of the cast, and their interaction.  A very enjoyable evening, our thanks to Vicky and Emma for hosting us and providing important information around the play and the cast.

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