Four sisters, a war, and a boy from next door. In this reimagining of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel, “Little Women” adapted for the stage by Kate Hamill, is a production that will warm the heart, wet the eyes, and touch the mind of anyone who watches. Set during the civil war, the play follows the March sisters, Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy, as they navigate tight budgets, constricting gender roles, and the absence of their father, who is off fighting for the Union. Along the way, they meet Laurie, the privileged and charming kindred spirit who lives with his grandfather in the neighboring estate. As years pass and the siblings discover who they are, they must deal with the changes and heartaches that come with growing up and moving on. 

This show features a very talented cast. Frequent costume and character changes are made throughout the show, and are done flawlessly. Additionally, it is plain to see that each of the actors have connected to their characters on a personal level, and are well-rehearsed and ready to shine onstage. From the moment the cast walks on, you can see their heads are fully in the game. 

One thing that struck this writer about the show were the bonds of sisterly love that are shown throughout. Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy are all very different, and often quarrel, but they all find ways to work together, and you can tell they genuinely care about each other. They banter and create and joke and support one another in a way that only siblings can. 

This show also contains powerful themes about embracing who you are. Jo March is frequently told off for acting too masculine, wasting time on plays and stories, and having no interest in getting a man, but throughout the story, she slowly learns to accept her uniqueness, and use it to help her family and herself. She realizes that she can’t become someone that she isn’t, and that just because her ambitions and habits are different from her siblings, it doesn’t mean that she is unimportant or a failure to her family. 

While “Little Women” grapples with serious subjects, like the war, money, sibling rivalries, and self worth, it is also dotted with funny moments and characters, like formidable Aunt March, a wealthy spinster with a foul-tempered parrot; flighty, bubbly Mrs. Mingott, who is insistent on getting suitors for Meg and Jo; and Amy’s frequent mix-ups and mispronunciations of words. 

This production emphasizes the importance of family. The March family faces many challenges in and outside of their home, but they always have one another to lean on, and seek advice from, be it about the stress of having your own home to look after, the slow rate at which your novel is progressing, or the number of pickled limes that you owe to your classmates. A story of friendship, family, and self-discovery, "Little Women" is a show you won't want to miss! 

Join the March's on May 20-22, 26-27, and the 29th. Thursday-Friday shows begin at 7:30 p.m., and Saturday-Sunday shows begin at 2 p.m. There will also be a virtual performance at 7:30 on the 28th. Book your tickets on the Yorkshire Playhouse box-office!