The four March sisters, played by, from left, Casey Griffin as Beth, Karianna Merrill as Meg, Janelle Raven as Jo, and Maria Groover as Amy, talk in a scene from the musical production of “Little Women” at Community Little Theatre in Auburn. Submitted photo by DNA Photography
AUBURN — In an entertainment world where classic novels become iconic movies and then transform into musicals, Louisa May Alcott’s “Little Women” has placed its marker in that camp with a resounding bang. Adding to that legacy is the Community Little Theatre, which is currently performing this fun, poignant and rousing music-filled tale of four sisters growing up in mid-19th century America.
Wonderfully compelling songs — lyrics by Mindi Dickstein, music by Jason Howland — highlight this fast-paced production in two acts that plays like a CliffsNotes version of the novel.
Justin Morin as John Brooke asks Meg, played by Karianna Merrill, if she will marry him when he returns from the war in a scene from the musical production of “Little Women” at Community Little Theatre in Auburn. Submitted photo by DNA Photography
What distinguishes this uniquely expressive story is the collection of songs, the lyrics and melodies, which rise above the usual show-tune genre. Additionally, the high points of the novel are woven seamlessly together, from Jo’s passion to become a published writer, to the Moffatt’s Valentine Ball where Meg’s burgeoning romance begins, to Laurie’s crush on Jo, to his later infatuation with Amy, and to the devastating Illness that befalls Beth.
Under the fine direction of Brandon Chaloux, the cast is stellar from top to bottom, many playing dual roles in the frenetic action scenes. Meanwhile, Musical Director Paul G. Caron’s accompaniment uplifts the wonderful vocal talents of everyone, and eye-popping choreography by Jamie Watson complete the tour de force.
Visually stunning, the costumes by designer Susan Fortier are a veritable fashion show of gorgeous gowns and period attire. Each scene outdoes the previous one for beauty and purpose.
The set, designed by Chaloux, is used to great dramatic effect. An elevated “attic” behind the sparse floor-level stage commands attention throughout. Vignettes in which the lives of the March family unfold are intercut with several recreations of the melodramatic short stories Jo writes in her attic studio. These scenes evoke the magic of Peter Pan or Grimms’ Fairy Tales.
Janelle Raven is simply terrific as Jo March, the aspiring writer with the fire to write “blood and guts” stories even though her work is repeatedly rejected. She sparkles as the sister who is determined to make good, and give her sisters and mother Marmee everything they’ve ever wanted. Her strong and evocative voice delivers her numbers with deep conviction and amazing range.
Janelle Raven as Josephine “Jo” March in a scene from the musical production of “Little Women” at Community Little Theatre in Auburn. Submitted photo by DNA Photography
Her sisters are: Beth, played by Casey Griffin, who is both timid and musically inclined; Meg, played by Karianna Merrill, who is a governess and very traditional; and Amy, played by Maria Groover, a romantic and an aspiring painter. Together they form a tight-knit sisterhood of support, squabbles and sibling jealousies that rings true in any time period. Together, and separately, they give voice to the many wonderful songs that develop the story of their growth. Captivating solos, duets and ensemble choral numbers stir the heart and blood as each cast member’s talent is spotlighted.
The girls’ mother, Marmee, played by Bee Tyler, is wonderful as the sounding board, voice of reason and steadying hand in the family. Marmee’s touching sensitivity to each of her daughters’ personalities is balanced by a gentle but firm disciplinary hand. Her solo, “Here Alone,” is a touching and beautiful explication of her plight as the single parent, while her husband is away as a chaplain in the Union Army.
Bee Tyler as Marmee and L. John Van Norden as Mr. Lawrence in a scene from the musical production of “Little Women” at Community Little Theatre in Auburn. Submitted photo by DNA Photography
The household is complete with the presence of Professor Bhaer, played by Edward Angelo, a boarder in the March home and mentor/friend to Jo. He continues to encourage Jo’s writing efforts, but tries to guide her away from the “blood and guts” swashbuckling tales she favors for writing more from herself and her own experience.
Aunt March, played by Jennifer Groover, is perfect as the wealthy, haughty aunt who leverages her station in an effort to transform Jo from tomboy to social lady, promising a European trip in exchange for Jo’s commitment to make that change. Groover also plays Mrs. Kirk later in Act 2.
Next-door neighbor Mr. Lawrence, played by L. John Van Norden, initially enters the picture as a Simon Legree figure, contemptuous of the poor March family and intent on marginalizing the daughters, particularly Jo. But his recently arrived grandson, Theodore “Laurie” Lawrence, played by Ethan Rombalski, is eager to befriend the Marches, particularly Jo, and slowly Mr. Lawrence softens as the story unfolds.
Mr. John Brooke, played by Justin Morin, is the tutor to Laurie and is introduced at the Annie Moffatt Valentine’s Ball. This prestigious social event finds Meg and Jo invited. But Amy is devastated when she finds she cannot go, as she was not invited, and she spitefully burns Jo’s manuscript after they have left.
At the ball, Meg’s reluctance at not being facile in the social graces surfaces because she doesn’t know how to respond if she is asked to dance. “Just say ‘I’d be delighted,’” Marmee coaches. When John Brooke accidentally picks up Meg’s dance card, he asks her to dance. Meg’s “I’d be delighted” initiates what will become their romance.
With all the characters now in play, Act 1 ends with Laurie and Jo awkwardly confronting what might be a more intimate relationship, singing two numbers, “Take A Chance (reprise)” and “Astonishing.”
The beginning of Act 2’s “Weekly Volcano Press” number features the actors playing new characters, including Tyler as the Hag, Rombalski as Rodrigo, Griffin as Rodrigo 2, Maria Groover as The Troll, Merrill as Clarissa, Morin as Sir Braxton Prendergast and Van Norden as The Knight. The intense action and character switches here are magical and enthralling.
The remainder of the scenes, without going into too much detail, wring reality out of what was youthful exuberance and exploration. They bring maturity to all concerned as Jo finds her author’s voice and true love in series of wonderfully crafted songs performed by this truly multi-talented cast.
If you are not familiar with Louisa May Alcott’s novel, you will be treated to the essence of her timeless story in a delightful musical version. If you know Alcott’s novel, you’ll be doubly pleased by the Community Little Theatre performance. Either way, you will surely marvel at finding such a stunning all-around professional production available to you in your own back yard.
Community Little Theatre is at 30 Academy St. in Auburn. For more information, call (207) 783-0958; e-mail at info@laclt.com; or reach the box office at boxoffice@laclt.com.
Remaining performances are Thursday-Saturday, April 27-29, at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, April 30, at 2 p.m.
Ticket prices (including all fees) are $22 for adults, $19 for seniors, and $14 for students. Tickets are available online at www.laclt.com/box-office or by calling 207-783-0958.
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