EMA Review: LITTLE WOMEN: THE MUSICAL Scrumptious ★★★★ 1/2
- Erik Engman
- 22 minutes ago
- 3 min read
By Erik Engman
Author, Clown and Improvisation Teacher, Theatre Critic EatMoreArtVegas.com
IG: ErikReviewsVegas
In 1868, Louisa May Alcott’s publisher suggested she write a novel for girls. Alcott hesitated, as she preferred writing for boys, but took on the task. She wrote a novel loosely based on her and her sisters. Much to her surprise, it was an immediate success. Little Women was born. Alcott’s book champions the ambition and individualism of young girls, and challenged the norms of traditional attitudes towards marriage at that time.
Her novel has spawned multiple film, stage, and television adaptations. Little Women: The Musical (book by Allan Knee, Music by Jason Howland, Lyrics by Mindi Dickstein) is one such adaptation, and I’m happy to say it’s a fantastic one. The story follows the lives of the March girls as they transition from girlhood into adulthood, through triumph and tragedy. Director Alec TerBerg captures the magic of the book and easily draws us into the world of these girls. I was, frankly, surprised at how moved I was by the production. TerBerg crafted the show with the exact mood and charm it needed.
It helped that he had an amazing, top-notch cast. Chloe Jaramillo is absolutely amazing as the ambitious, headstrong Jo. Her powerful voice and passion easily bring to life one of the most iconic women in literary fiction. She’s so good. I loved watching Britni Favero, as the romantic older sister, Meg, transitioning from loyal sister to loving wife. Selena Caballero as the timid Beth gives the role a quiet calm, even in the face of tragedy. The scene with the kite is a definite highlight. And finally there’s Kyleigh Keith as the younger sister Amy, who absolutely steals the show whenever she’s on. I just loved her performance, balancing the brattiness alongside a deep longing for her own identity. She’s a definite talent.
Mary Beth Zentner as the mother, Marnee, beautifully portrays the steadfast matriarch of the family, while also revealing a tender vulnerability, especially in the song “Days of Plenty.” Gina Kirk’s portrayal of the rich Aunt March is perfect with her strict and snooty attitude. Rowan Johns as the fickle best friend Laurie plays the role with a light-hearted charm. Edgar Andrew Torrens as John Brooke gave a solid performance and was a good match for Meg. James Claflin was so charming as Mr. Laurence, going from gruff to fatherly with ease. I loved his scenes with Beth. And finally, there’s Philip Robinson as Professor Bhaer who just blew me away with his performance. I never gave this character much thought, but with his acting and that second act song “How I Am”, I completely identified with his character.
The set was wonderful. It was mainly the March household, but upon further inspection it was an amalgam of different aspects of their lives. I wanted to spend more time just taking in all the different parts. The lighting by Lighting Designer Michael Jarett was fantastic, matching the mood in subtle ways that added to the tone of each scene and song. The costumes by Teri Gerring and Lars Palmer along with wigs by Claire Hilscher were great and brought me into the time period perfectly.
I wasn’t sure going in if we really needed a musical of Little Women, but I was very pleased. This is a very beautiful production, with amazing performers. Whether you have always been a fan of the book or are completely new to the story you will love this coming-of-age tale. By the end I was so invested in the lives of the March family that I’m now going to go and read the book for the first time in years. Bring your kids. Bring your parents. Bring your family. This is a great treat to start the holiday season.
What: Little Women: The Musical
When: October 22 - November 15, Wednesdays to Saturdays, 7:30 pm, Saturdays 2:00, no show on Halloween
Where: Summerlin Library and Performing Arts Center, 1771 Inner Circle Drive
Tickets: Adults $38, Seniors $33, Students $28,
RATING: Scrumptious ★★★★ 1/2
Director/Choreographer: Alec TerBerg; Musical Director: Shauna Oblad; Production Manager: Jenn Haley; Lighting Designer: Michael Jarett; Costume Designers: Teri Gerring and Lars Palmer; Wig Designer: Chaire Hilscher
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