The Broadway Musical “Little Women” was performed at the Gussman Concert Hall on March 28 at 8 p.m. The TU theatre cast took the Broadway script and its understanding of the beloved book and created a performance that will be hard to forget.
“Little Women” follows the March sisters as they age from childhood to adults.
Chuyi Wen/Collegian
The musical took on the story of the March girls and their lives leading up to the writing of “Little Women.” The stage set was grand and encompassed every inch of its space, drawing the audience into the story. The phenomenal actress and singer Nicole Billups played spirited Jo and began the musical singing about her dramatic story; this set the tone for wild theatrics and plenty of light humor throughout the musical.
At times the pit orchestra overpowered even the most robust voices on stage, but the actors held their own fairly well. The actresses and actors took great care to fit their voices to the characters and not simply go through the motions. From Beth’s delicate voice, played by Tabitha Littlefield, to Aunt March’s scraggy one, played by Caitlin Cash, the diversity of tones was impressive.
The March girls, Jo, Beth, Meg and Amy March, act out their “operactic tragedy,” setting the tone for the musical.
Chuyi Wen/Collegian
Cody McCoy performed the rather ditzy and energetic Laurie with such poise and dedication that some audience members clapped enthusiastically just for his performances. Laurie’s grandfather, Mr. Laurence, played by Ryan Box, was well fleshed out. His limping with a cane was slightly melodramatic, but the character talked and looked elderly with skillful stage makeup.
Perhaps the most memorable scene was Beth’s last song. Taken to Cape Cod, Beth and Jo flew a kite together to forget some of their troubles. As Beth talked of never making plans for the future and being ready to leave, a wind caught the homemade kite and blew it away. Beth’s voice was one to make any audience member a little teary-eyed.
Chris Jett brought the character Professor Bhaer to life. The character’s singing and mannerisms made this “prince charming” more of a believable human being that a knight in shining armor. Truly, the musical was made magnificent because of Jo’s strong and clear voice. It carried over all other sounds and anchored the musical, making it full of hope and life.
