Marblehead Little Theatre's 'Little Women' Captivates Audiences

Never fear, the March sisters will guide your way.

Marblehead Little Theatre brings the pages of Louisa May Alcott’s classic 1868 novel, Little Women, to the stage. The story follows the March sisters - Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy - transitioning to womanhood during the American Civil War.

Audiences enjoyed every minute of Marblehead Little Theatre’s Little Women, a beautiful musical about sisterly love. Little Women has resonated with audiences of several generations, particularly women, for its inspiring themes about pursuing your dreams.

Samantha Leone, Olivia Christopher, Bridget Saunders, and Sophie Mintsiveris accomplished standout performances as the four March sisters. The actresses splendidly reflected their characters' personalities, relationships, and songs. Each sister wants to conquer ambitious dreams in their sparse world.

Leone is fierce as Jo, who guides her own way. She is an aspiring writer who refuses to conform to societal expectations. Her songs are commendable, particularly ‘Astonishing,’ and ‘The Fire Within,’ each distinguishing her evolution in the story.

I have never felt a more powerful family dynamic than that of the March’s. Their relationships felt strong and real. Kaitlyn Eggers does a spectacular job as Marmie March, the girls’ devoted mother. She is always running around and stopping her daughter's fights. Her song, ‘Days of Plenty’ is a moving piece, defining Marmie’s unwavering support and the depth of a mother’s love.

As Jo navigates her path, she is pursued romantically by Theodore ‘Laurie’ Laurence (Kyle Doherty). Doherty captures Laurie’s quirky and youthful energy while allowing his character to mature throughout the story.

The supporting cast also contributed greatly to the production. No small part ever exists in the theater. Victoria Weinstein is hilarious as the proper Aunt March. Doug Hill (Mr. Laurence), David Picariello (Mr. John Brooks/Braxton), and Andrew Hankinson (Professor Bhaer) brought charm and depth to their roles. The audience marveled at Jo’s humorous retelling of one of her stories, featuring playful performances.

Marblehead Little Theatre continues to outdo itself with its inventive stage work. For this production, the stage is altered at a new angle. When entering the theater, audiences are met with Andrew Barnett’s set design recreating the March family home. It’s a cozy home with comfy couches, a piano at the wall, and an attic space filled with many of Jo’s creative ideas.

What would theater be without a technical crew? Kate Doucette’s period-accurate dresses further enhanced the historical setting. A live pit orchestra accompanied the performers in their upbeat songs. ‘Five Forever’ is my favorite. More great pieces include ‘Our Finest Dreams,’ ‘Some Things Are Meant to Be,’ and ‘Take a Chance.’

Alexandra Deitrich has a deep love for the story of Little Women. Her direction excels with this story’s powerful message about change and maturity. The March sisters grow into respectable young women, eventually learning how to understand one another better.

Alcott’s novel was ahead of its time, advocating for women's independence when women of that period had few rights. Not only that, but Little Women is also a show about love, whether it be romantic, between family, or for yourself. I didn’t expect Little Women to be so emotional in the second act. Nobody ever knows what will happen in life, so enjoy every moment.

The same goes for live theater. You know that theater saying, ‘break a leg?’ An incident like that actually happened onstage, except to the leg of a couch. The couch leg broke, sending an actress plummeting off the back and onto the floor during the performance! Thankfully, she was uninjured and kept going, but the show had to pause to replace the couch. The cast embraced this fumble, laughing it off with the audience, and continued with the show.

Currently, all performances of Marblehead Little Theatre’s Little Women are sold out. Little Women is a marvelous show for the whole family. Bravo to the entire cast for a wonderful production!