The timeless classic, “Little Women,” is the 2022 Adams State University Theatre annual holiday show. Jenna Neilsen, director, chose the heartwarming, coming-of-age tale for many reasons. “Part of this American classic is set during Christmastime and I appreciate the breadth and strength of the female characters.”
“Little Women” is about finding out who you are and how we can find our identity with family support. “This adaptation focuses on this theme and how your family support system shapes you into who you are,” Neilsen added.
Just like the novel, the play focuses on the four March sisters, Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy; their mom, Marmee, and the family friend Laurie. “The adaptation is set in the 1860s and audience members familiar with the Louisa May Alcott novel, as well as those new to the story, will connect to the sisters and their wonderful glory, good and bad.”
“Little Women,” by Kate Hamill, examines issues still relevant in the 21st century. “The characters reflect on what it means to be a man or woman and examines social gender expectations, particularly through Laurie and Jo, but through all the characters.”
The 11-person cast includes Meg’s love interest, Mr. Brooks, and Laurie’s grandfather, Mr. Lawrence, and Mr. March. Set during the Civil War with Mr. March fighting for the Union Army, “Little Women” takes place in a small, quaint home in a big city in a big country.
“The story is about embracing who you are even when it is hard and society tells you there are easier choices to be made,” Neilsen said. “You can find your voice and become who you are meant to be.”
The heart of the set, designed by senior theatre major Alanna Wood as part of her thesis project, is the March home. “Even when they go out into the world, home is always there to come back to,” Neilsen added. Jamie Bulzami, plays Jo, for her senior acting thesis. The lights and sound are also designed by theatre students.
“I grew up with the March girls and I want a whole other generation to grow up with these little women,” Neilsen added. “I encourage people who grew to love the March sisters in the book, to experience them again in this play and those who are unfamiliar with the story to discover their charm and close ties.”
The play runs about two hours, including a 10-minute intermission. “The show is good for the whole family. The March sisters are not always well-behaved as they grow up to be women and that is a healthy role model for little girls,” Neilsen said.
As Jo March is encouraged to write the tale of Beth, “Little Women is not a great epic but a small, quiet story that must be told.”
The play opens at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2, and public performances continue at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 9 and 10; with a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday, Dec. 4.
Tickets are $13 for general admission and free for AS&F. Ordering tickets has never been easier. Visit Little Women Tickets. Tickets can also be reserved through the box office at 719-587-8499 between 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. All AS&F tickets for faculty, staff, and students must be reserved directly through the box office.
