Colonial Chorus Players' "A Little Women Christmas": An Endearing Radio Show

We may not have much, but we have each other.

Colonial Chorus Players presents a radio-show adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel, “A Little Women Christmas.” Adapted by producer Jennifer Estabrooks, the story centers on a year in the life of the March sisters. As the family struggles through war, poverty, and sickness, they never lose their love for one another.

I have not seen many radio plays before, and watching “A Little Women Christmas” at Colonial Chorus Players is truly like taking a step back in time. The theater fully stages a 1940s-style radio show with vintage microphones, costumes, and clever sound effects. “A Little Women Christmas” is an endearing tale about family, tradition, and holidays.

The cast of “Little Women Christmas” has a unique task in their performance. They don’t physically act out scenes, but act through their voices. Voice acting is a different world entirely, though you must embrace it through rigorous vocal work. They commit to the radio-show format with expressive voices and fully embody their characters.

Katie Mulno (Jo), Kat Plano (Meg), Shannon Fay (Beth), and Gaby Estabrooks (Amy) play the four March sisters. All four actresses give standout performances. The March sisters are iconic characters for their distinct personalities and dynamics. I laughed several times at their sisterly teasing, but the sisters' love for one another is strong. That shouldn’t be forgotten.

Sue Brother plays the haughty, opinionated, and stern Aunt March. I have seen Brother in other CCP shows and she is always very animated in her performances. She was well cast in this part, as Brother has sharp comedic timing, an expressive countenance, and a larger-than-life personality on the microphone.

The supporting cast also contributes to the story. Katie Broach provides a warm love as the girls’ mother, Marmee. She is always there for her daughters.

Jo is pursued by Theodore ‘Laurie’ Laurence, played by Alexander Slocum, who gives a charming performance as the young man.

David Murgo (Mr. Laurence), Peter Cavicchio (John Brooke), Martin Brother (Mr. Keighley), and Scott Estabrooks (Skippy) also play other characters in the radio show. As I always say, no small part exists in the theater.

This show wouldn’t be possible without its amazing technical crew. David Bilodeau designed the stage to resemble a 1940s radio show, while Laura Dillon supplied period costumes to actors. A neon “applause” sign hangs on the stage; audiences are instructed to clap whenever it lights up.

With radio shows, someone was always in charge of making the sound effects. Scott Estabrooks (Skippy) executes live sound effects onstage. Whether he’s slamming doors, tapping shoes against the desk, rustling papers, or creating ambient noises, Estabrooks adds a playful atmosphere that captures the magic of old-time radio shows.

I could tell that director Laura J. Bilodeau has a strong love for “Little Women.” She highlights the nostalgic charm of the classic story, and I really liked the show’s style. Everything feels authentic, and Bilodeau strives to create a fun atmosphere for all audiences.

“Little Women” has a strong moral at its core. Not only does it challenge gender norms about women, but it’s a story about being grateful for what you have, especially around the holidays. The play also radiates themes about gratitude, generosity, and the value of family. The show makes for a delightful outing with your own family.

“A Little Women Christmas” at Colonial Chorus Players is an endearing show to start the holiday season. There are some surprises scattered throughout the tale. Catch a show at Colonial Chorus Players Dec. 5 through Dec. 7. Tickets are available online: https://www.ccp1961.org/tickets.html