Little Women by Louise May Alcott was one of my favorite books I read as a child. The Colonial Playhouse in Aldan is offering this gem on their stage right now.
The cast of Little Women shines at Colonial Playhouse.
This version is by Kevin Cunningham and I’m puzzled if it is indeed meant for the stage. I can honestly say I don’t remember sitting through as many scene changes at the theatre before. I wish one of the veteran directors at Colonial had offered advice to the show’s director Kate Sapsis on how she could have cut down the amount of scene changes along with using lighting instead in certain instances.
That being said, Sapsis’ direction of the superb cast is flawless. They all work beautifully off of each other tugging at your heart strings along the way. Hannah Leifheit and Patrick O’Neill do a nice job as Louisa May Alcott (Lu) and Thomas Niles, Jr.
Natalie Sidlow is outstanding as Jo, the tomboy who anchors this cast. Brooklyn Elia, Melody Graham and Melissa Tillman are terrific as sisters Meg, Beth and Amy.
Shari Rosen-Kelly is perfect as their mom Marmee. Kathryn Ganime-Leech does her usual good job as Hannah. Andrew Shepard shines as Laurie along with Rich Szymczak as Mr. Brooke and Nick Squeri in multiple roles.
Liz McCallum was fun as Aunt March and Gabe Walsh-Shore as Prof. Bhaer rounded out the great cast.
The Production staff which includes many Colonial veterans did their usual fine job and the costumes were stunning.
Make sure you see this play. There are only six performances left on Nov. 21, 22, 23, 28, 29 and 30.
Colonial Playhouse is at 522 West Magnolia Ave., Aldan, PA. Call 610-622-5773 or visit www.colonialplayhouse.net.