Louisa May Alcott’s classic heartwarming story is one of my favourites and centres around the coming of age of the March Sisters and is adapted by Anne-Marie Casey for the stage and directed by Loveday Ingram.
The American Civil War is the backdrop and follows the lives of the four March sisters Meg, Jo, Amy and Beth as they navigate their way through life dealing with love, loss, their different ambitions and the transformation they each go through.
Ruari Murchison’s clever set is simple but so effective. The bare tree trunks on the stage work so well letting us imagine the outdoors and there is even a gentle falling of snow. The clever use of Matthew Buggs atmospheric music helps capture the mood and completely suits the period Little Women is set in. The clever use of lighting and sound helps create the change in seasons.
The story centres around the four sisters Jo (Natalie Dunne) who is rebellious and passionate about her family but more than anything wants to be a writer and not conform to expectations. Older sister Meg (Jade Oswald) is more traditional and desperately wants to conform and marry for love. Amy (Jewelle Hutchinson) is considered spoilt but just wants to learn how to be a lady. Beth (Megan Richards) the youngest anxious sister is devoted to her family. Their Father is away fighting in the war and they all need to learn to adapt to it and the struggles it brings. Marmee (Juliet Aubrey) holds the family together with strength and finds ways to let the sisters individuality shine through.
Aunt March is played deliciously by Belinda Lang with a real glint in her eye and some sharp humour.
Laurie (Perry Williams) is the charming boy next door who brings excitement into their lives and his tutor Mr Brook (Tom Richardson) also doubles up as Professor Bhaer.
It’s a faithful fresh adaptation by Anne-Marie Casey with heart, humour and affection running through it. There is a real chemistry between the cast especially the March sisters and we feel the emotions running through their individual stories.
Reviewer: Ann Smith
Reviewed: 4th November 2025
North Wet End UK Rating:
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