By Evan Fitzpatrick
Student blogger, Evan Fitzpatrick comments on the original source material for the Broadway musical Little Women, playing March 22-24 at The Hanover Theatre & Conservatory for the Performing Arts
In life, we are all storytellers whether we realize it or not. When we engage in conversation, whether electronic or in person, we share experiences and connect best with others when our vulnerability is authentic and our stories are honest.
Based on the novel by Louisa May Alcott written in 1868, Little Women is a beloved, classic story set at the Orchard House in Concord, Massachusetts that has stood the test of time. It focuses on the four March sisters finding their way in colonial America. Centered on Jo played by Hannah Taylor, the second oldest sister in the family continually resists conforming to society’s expectations in an “astonishing” way. These characters are modeled after Alcott’s real-life sisters. Learn more about Noa Harris who plays the youngest sister “Amy March” in the national tour and was recently interviewed by Kevin Baldwin in METRMAG ahead of her arrival to Worcester.
I think the audience will be struck by the humanity of the show, the universal truths about societal expectations and the discovery of who we are if we choose a divergent path. After reading the book, it’s no wonder that Greta Gerwig, now of the “Barbie” movie acclaim, directed the film adaptation of Little Women modernizing its themes of independence and individuality. Audiences of the touring production coming to The Hanover Theatre should expect to see a closer adaptation to the book itself.
Humanity will always value conviction, strength, character and integrity. As theater-goers, we will cheer for the characters who stay true to themselves even if that truth requires that they challenge convention. As we watch, we owe it to Jo, Meg, Beth and Amy, to think about ways we should challenge commonly-held beliefs to stay true to ourselves no matter how “astonishing” this may seem.
I’m looking forward to seeing Little Women at The Hanover Theatre running March 22-24, 2024.
