Music Theater Works presents a new stage version of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel Little Women at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts (Northlight Theater)in Skokie, Illinois. In 19th century New England, ambitious Jo, traditional Meg, gentle Beth, and spirited Amy, grow up balancing their sisterly bonds with their distinct personalities. With their father away at war, the March sisters are raised and nurtured by their wise and selfless Marmee.
In a time marked by societal expectations, their love and shared feminine strength bind them through hardships, friendships, romantic entanglements, and inevitable losses. Captivating readers for generations, this beloved, autobiographical classic shines in an all new stage adaptation. It is a tale of family, resilience, and a young writer who perseveres to her own path in the world.
Little Women is one of those examples of a timeless story that everyone adores over and over again. Northlight Theater’s new version of the beloved novel is an absolute delight from start to finish. It all comes down to the perfect cast of performers who bring all the story and characters to life in a refreshing perspective.
Knowing that these sisters are based on real people, makes this heartwarming story even more touching. It is emotionally gratifying to witness how they bonded with one another on stage, and how loyal they are to each other. The different personalities of the women, and how they are all portrayed, shows us how different each woman is in our present world.
Tyler Meredith shines as Jo March, who narrates the story of herself as a blooming writer, her mother, sisters, and friend Laurie, as they try to stay strong during the Civil War, without their father and little financial means. Janyce Caraballo (Meg) is the calm and eldest sister, who hopes to find a husband and settle down with children.
Demetra Dee plays Beth, the quiet, kind and sweet sister who loves being at home with her family. Yourtana Sulaiman is Amy, the youngest March sister who is smart, yet enjoys materialistic things and hopes to grow up quickly. Lucy Carapetyania is Marmee, the March family’s caring mother, who is the glue keeping the family together. John Drea (Laurie) and Erik Hellman (John/Friedrich) round out the cast as the male friend and romantic interests.
I attended a special evening performance of Little Women on Friday, December 13. This specific evening was special because the theater offered a relaxed and sensory friendly performance. As I am a special educator, I felt a deeper connection and appreciation for inclusive theater for everyone.
According to Northlight Theater, “The typical rules of the theater for audience members are relaxed. Relaxed performances are designed to make everyone feel safe and welcome at our theater. While these performances include changes to better support individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities, everyone is welcome to attend a relaxed performance.”
Adjustments of note:
*Lower sound level.
*House lights will remain on at all times at a low level.
*Designated quiet area for patrons who need to step away from the performance.
*Patrons are free to walk around and talk during the performance.
*Cell phone usage and light noisemaking are allowed.
Besides the wonderful cast, the script, simple set design, and lovely period costumes, all contributed to the deeply moving play.
Little Women is only running through January 5. Make sure to bring along everyone this holiday season who is dear to you. Bring your sisters, mothers, aunts, and friends, to enjoy this beautiful journey of storytelling together.
Photos: 2024 Northlight Theater
To purchase tickets, visit the Northlight Theater website.
Running November 29, 2024 – January 5, 2025
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