The Little Theatre Leicester – until 20th September 2025
Reviewed by Amarjeet Singh
4****
Inspired by the life of Louisa May Alcott, Little Women centres around the beloved March sisters, Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy as they navigate the trials of growing up in Civil War-era America. Mr March is away in the war and Marmie March is tending home and taking care of the girls, in Concord, Massachusetts. At its heart is Jo, an aspiring writer struggling to find her voice in a world reluctant to hear it. Penning stories full of adventure, heroics and thrills, her swashbuckling sagas don’t always hit the mark. Urged by her friend Professor Bhaer to write more authentically, Jo begins to draw inspiration from her own life, crafting the story of her family in all its joy, sorrow, and strength, capturing their moments and memories forever.
This adaptation, directed by John Bale, is playful and full of warmth. Little Women becomes something truly special in his hands. For longtime fans of the March sisters, this staging is a heartfelt return; for newcomers, it’s a beautifully assembled introduction. The set design, with its grand ornate staircase, a glowing hearth, piano, and writing desk all evoke an intimate, and homely space. There is also a backdrop screen projecting bookshelves, changing skies and displaying written changes of time, dates and location, indicating the story is progressing. This is a production that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.
Musically, the production sparkles. Led by musical director Grace Bale and with musical staging by Keiran Whelan-Newby, the original score, paired with dynamic movement, adds emotional depth and narrative texture. There are magical moments of mirroring and enchanting ensemble numbers. The vocal harmonies are rich and layered, and pair wonderfully with the action.
Jo, played by Danielle Sanders, is portrayed with fierce intelligence and emotional fortitude. She anchors the story with a performance that is both engaging and energetic. It would be lovely to see her lean into moments of vulnerability and softness to balance the character, but overall, her performance is bold and brilliant with stunning vocals. Meg March played by Rose Bale, Beth March played by Katie Draper, and Amy March, played by Katherine Wadd, embody their characters perfectly. The chemistry among the sisters is palpable; their sibling dynamic, full of teasing, bickering, shared memories, and affection feels lived-in and utterly authentic.
The supporting cast is equally strong. Laurie played by Tim Stokes is portrayed with charm and charisma, moving beyond the familiar trope of ‘boy next door’, he shines throughout the production. Dan Rowberry’s, John Brooke offers an initially menacing then quietly compelling presence, along with Alexandra Elliott’s Marmie, they ground scenes with gentleness and sincerity. Throughout, the ensemble shares a gorgeous harmony, making the familial and romantic relationships feel both believable and touching.
This is a glorious offering of Little Women. It’s stirring, unforgettable and deeply human. It’s also joyfully funny, with plenty of comedic moments both verbal and physical. Whether you’re encountering the March sisters for the first time or reuniting with them after many years, this production embraces you like an old friend.