Louisa May Alcott’s beloved ‘Little Women’ is back, telling the celebrated and heartwarming story of four sisters, their mother and their friends as they navigate the twists and turns of life and what it has to offer.
The stage is set as a quaint living room, adorned with a twinkling Christmas tree and centrepiece piano. This set is unobtrusive yet provides a whimsical feel, adding to the theme of the sisters’ hopes and dreams in the first Act of the show. Fitting props and staging create two main scenes – in the first Act, the March’s home and surrounding areas and in the second Act, the addition of bookcases show time has passed and sets the scene for Jo working at the boarding house. Lighting is used beautifully throughout the play, particularly when paired with the fake snow falling in the ice-skating scene. The actors sing in harmony during scene transitions and the piano is often played on stage which adds to the stylistic tone of the show.
The casting of this production is spot on, with the chemistry between the four sisters and with Laurie shining through. The blocking throughout is dynamic and helps the audience to fully believe the sisters’ strong bond. Comical moments are made through speech, movement and bold facial expressions, creating fully developed characters. Jo’s movement and physicality was standout and Grace Molony embodied the headstrong, fearless character. She continued to make a strong impact throughout as the protagonist and gave meaningful insight into the layers of Jo’s character. Molony and Cillian Lenaghan perform well together and allow the audience to feel the palpability and realness of Jo and Laurie’s relationship. When their relationship comes to a head, the audience is so invested in the couple that it makes for a heart wrenching moment. Lenaghan encapsulates Laurie’s fun loving and charming spirit.
Jade Kennedy shone as Meg and created an endearing yet uncharacteristically comedic character. Her scenes with Molony and later with Jack Ashton as John Brooke were particularly honest. Imogen Elliot portrayed the complex Amy well and had the most notable transition between Amy’s characters over the years, making her character’s growth clear to the audience. Catherine Chalk as Beth was charming, her shorter time on stage memorable through her adept performance.
Belinda Lang as Aunt March provided excellent comedy throughout, and her moments were memorable. Her delivery, intonation and wit were welcome on stage particularly when the play was transitioning from more serious moments. Her character was a welcome tool in keeping the momentum of the story.
While this coming-of-age tale has a fairly linear plot, the story is refreshed by the charming characters and their chemistry on stage. This tale of a family’s little life and their family ‘Little Women’ continues to charm and remind audiences of the importance of enjoying the little things and being grateful, a sentiment that is well required in today’s world.
Little Women is showing at Richmond Theatre until 7th June before it continues to Leeds and Plymouth. Tickets and more information can be found at: https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/little-women/richmond-theatre/
Reviewer: Maani Way
Reviewed: 3rd June 2025
North West End UK Rating: