Afternoon Tea Room, Browns Covent Garden – 22 May 2025
Reviewed by Joanna Huggett
5*****
Last night, my partner and I had the absolute pleasure of attending the official London Album Release Party for Jo, the new musical adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s beloved novel Little Women. The event took place at the elegant Brown’s in Covent Garden, a venue that proved as charming and welcoming as the story itself. From the moment we arrived, we were met with exceptional hospitality—the staff were incredibly accommodating, the atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the evening felt like a true celebration of artistry and storytelling.
The event was hosted to mark the London release of the studio album for Jo, a musical that reimagines Alcott’s timeless coming-of-age tale through a fresh and deeply emotive score composed by Dan Redfeld. We were fortunate to hear from several key creatives involved in the project: Brian Purcell, the show’s producer; Dan Redfeld, the composer; and Nigel Wright, co-music producer of the album. Each spoke with great passion about the journey of bringing this musical to life—from the initial inspiration through to recording and production. Their insights added a meaningful layer to the experience and highlighted the deep care and dedication behind every note.
The evening included a sneak preview of two recorded tracks, played on screen, followed by two captivating live performances. It was during these moments that the magic of Jo truly came alive. The music, composed by Dan Redfeld, struck us immediately with its beauty—it’s stirring, melodic, and wonderfully expressive, capturing the spirit of the characters and the emotional arcs of the story with remarkable grace.
Among the standout moments of the night were the live performances. Sophie Pollono, who plays Amy, delivered a heartwarming performance that resonated deeply with the audience. She conveyed Amy’s complexities with warmth and authenticity, creating an instant connection. Equally impressive was Chris Mann, who plays Laurie. His performance was both powerful and nuanced, showcasing not only his vocal talent but also his ability to inhabit the character with emotional depth.
Several other cast members were in attendance, lending the evening a celebratory, family-like energy. There was a strong sense of camaraderie and excitement in the room—everyone present seemed to feel that they were witnessing something truly special.
We left the event feeling uplifted and incredibly excited about the future of Jo. With such stunning music and heartfelt performances, we are confident that the show will be a success when it reaches the West End—and we absolutely hope it does. My teenage daughters, both fans of Little Women, would be enchanted by this musical. It’s a beautiful adaptation that breathes new life into the classic story while preserving the essence that has made it beloved for generations.
We eagerly await news of its theatrical release, and we’ll be first in line when it opens!