The cast of LITTLE WOMEN. Photo Credit: Nobby Clark
With strong performances, clever staging, and a warm, engaging atmosphere, this charming and faithful stage adaptation of LITTLE WOMEN brings the March sisters’ story vividly to life.
Since its publication in 1868–1869, Louisa May Alcott’s novel about the about the fates and fortunes of four sisters has become regarded as one of the great “coming of age” novels for young women. Alongside George Elliot’s MILL ON THE FLOSS, it paints a picture of womanhood fracturing from the accepted norms, as women start to push away from a traditional role and adopt a more feminist stance.
Set during the American Civil War, this new stage adaptation of LITTLE WOMEN by Anne-Marie Casey retains all the charm of the original novel. The narrative warmly draws the audience into the home life of the March family and the different roles the sisters will eventually assume; the wife, the mother, the invalid and the adventurer.
The cast of LITTLE WOMEN. Photo Credit: Nobby Clark
Amy (Imogen Elliott) is the typical spoiled child, prone to tantrums and acts of spite. Meg (Jade Kennedy), the governess, is the solid, dependable guiding hand to her younger siblings. Beth (Catherine Chalk) is the gentle soul, no scholar, but the very embodiment of goodness. Her death scene in the second act of the play is understated, powerful and sensitive. Finally, there is Jo, or Josephine as her aunt calls her. The adventurer, always with her head in a book or busy writing her own stories, she is determined to carve her own path. Grace Molony portrays her with a sharpness of character that is strident but not abrasive.
Their male counterparts are also well cast. Laurie (Cillan Lebaghan), the rejected suitor turned lovable rogue, ultimately marries Amy. Jack Ashton plays both John Brooke and Professor Bhaer, bringing warmth and nuance to both roles. Overall, the ensemble cast are convincing, lively, and portray the relationships with depth and authenticity.
The cast of LITTLE WOMEN. Photo Credit: Nobby Clark
Two theatre veterans also deserve special mention: Honeysuckle Weeks as Marmee and Belinda Lang as Aunt March. While both actresses are impressive, Lang’s Aunt March, has some of the best lines, delivered with perfectly timed deadpan wit. Marmee, who could easily fade into the background, becomes the emotional anchor of the piece in the hands of Weeks. Both are captivating whenever they are on stage.
Mike Robertson’s lighting design is atmospheric and beautifully executed, and Ruari Murchison’s versatile set design elevates the production. The inclusion of the carols to convey the passage of time is a nice touch that enhances the cosy, intimate feel of the play.
Directed by Loveday Ingram, this touring production clearly benefits from a deep understanding of the novel’s subtleties. Together with Casey, she has successfully brought LITTLE WOMEN from page to stage. The production oozes charm without being mawkish, conveys the female narrative of the time without preaching and above all, moves at a joyous pace that holds the audience’s attention throughout. A thoroughly enjoyable evening’s entertainment.
LITTLE WOMEN runs at The Lowry, Salford, until 12 April 2025
Gillian has a Masters degree in Film Theory and a background in music journalism. A veteran of gig promotion, she loves nothing more than a darkened room, a packet of Revels and a good play. By day she works in medico-legal administration, by night she escapes into theatre for relaxation.
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