With deadline season in full swing, opportunities for morale-boosting relaxation may seem frightfully scant. But fear not, friends: The Just So Society is kicking off its spring season with a production of Little Women: The Musical, an adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic coming-of-age book of the same name.
The “little women” featured in the tale are four sisters living in Massachusetts during the Civil War. The story follows Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy March as they attempt to navigate all the challenges of growing up that we’re all familiar with – responsibility, love, friendship and family.
Of particular interest is tomboy Jo’s pursuit of her dream of becoming a famous writer, an aspect that appealed to the production team. Speaking to The Stand, co-director Kate Stamoulis called Jo the “original independent woman”. She explained that the female-centric story was a big reason behind their choice of musical, as they saw it as an opportunity to involve more women in musical theatre in St Andrews both onstage and off. It is refreshing to see such an unashamedly feminine production – from the story, to the mostly female cast and crew and to the delicate artwork created for its promotion.
The show is being performed at the StAge (for those unaware, this is what we call 601 when using the seats and, well, stage), which co-director Molly Ketcheson noted is just small enough to create an intimate performance, that I imagine will help sweep the audience up in the world of the March family. Stamoulis credits the themes of family and friendship with helping the cast bond so well, which can only help in a show so much more about characters than action, as Ketcheson said.
I’m sure that anyone who has read the book will agree that it is a heart-warming story that will touch the hearts of even the most cynical. A perfect distraction then, for those of us drowning a little under the wave of work that has suddenly swept over the town. After all, Amy says in the book, “I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.” Little Women: The Musical is sure to be a wholesome respite: come along for a night of strong female characters, enchanting musical numbers and a classic tale of dreams, family, and, of course, romance.
Little Women: The Musical goes up on the StAge (the Union) on Tuesday 12th and Thursday 14th at 7:30pm and Wednesday at 6:00pm. Tickets are £7 and can be reserved by emailing littlewomenboxoffice@gmail.com. Check out their Facebook page here for updates and behind-the-scenes content.
