“Warmth and charm radiates in this adaptation of Little Women”
Anne-Marie Casey’s stage adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s beloved Little Women, breathes life into the classic tale. Following the 1860’s family, themes of womanhood, ambition and self-discovery translate across the centuries in this relatable and captivating interpretation. Casey infuses the production with warmth and charm whilst staying true to the spirit of the story fans of the novel are so familiar with.
An atmospheric start brings the audience straight into the world of the March Family. Grace Molony’s boisterous and determined Jo March radiates authenticity and charisma. Jade Kennedy plays the sensible Meg March with poise and depth, providing calm in the families chaos. Imogen Elliott finds a delicate balance between Amy’s artistic ambition and her occasional vanity, while Catherine Chalk beautifully embodies the gentle and angelic Beth. Together, they bring the characters to life with grace and elegance.
Supporting the sisters are Honeysuckle Weeks, Marmee, the centre of the family who balances the responsibilities of raising four girls with the hardships of war whilst her husband is away. Belinda Lang’s Aunt March often complicates the family dynamic with her wealth and old-fashioned opinions. Weeks and Lang command the stage with a presence that highlights the contrasting, yet equally strong, maternal influences on the March family. Cillian Lenaghan brings charm and vulnerability to Laurie, while Jack Ashton skillfully transitions between the roles of the earnest John Brooke and the more reflective Professor Bhaer.
One of the standout elements of the production is the thoughtful approach to the passage of time. The use of carols to focus on seasonality and the subtle changes to costumes to display a more mature and more self-determined fashion in each of the sisters shows the attention to detail of the production is at the core of its success. The cleverness of the set seamlessly transitions between the homely environment of the March family and the glitz and glamour of society.
The world building is brilliantly achieved through the different mediums of the production but the pacing of the first act can feel slow at times, with certain scenes lingering longer than needed. This slower pace is balanced by the more dynamic moments in the second act, leaving the audience wanting more.
Enter the world of the March family at The Lowry until Saturday 12th May with tickets on sale here, and catch the production on it’s tour of the UK this spring.