By Afshin Razi
Some stories never really go out of style, and Little Women is one of them. American novelist Louisa May Alcott’s classic coming-of-age story was published in two parts in 1868 and 1869, drawing heavily from her own life with her sisters. Set during the Civil War era, it follows Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy March as they navigate growing up, chase their dreams, and hold tight to family as the world shifts around them, exploring themes of ambition, sisterhood, love, and self-discovery.
Over the years, the story has been adapted numerous times for film and television, a testament to its lasting appeal and universal themes. The musical adaptation, with a book by Allan Knee, music by Jason Howland, and lyrics by Mindi Dickstein, premiered on Broadway in 2005 after an extensive development process. What has helped the show endure is its focus on character over spectacle. It is a piece that relies on connection, on relationships, and on the emotional journeys of its central figures. Mount St. Joseph University’s production of Little Women: the Musical leans into those strengths, offering a clear and sincere take on a story that continues to resonate with audiences.
A Jo March That Pops Off the Page
Like the novel, we experience the world of Little Women through Jo March’s journey as a writer, using her imagination to infuse the stage with theatricality and energy while remaining grounded in the relationships that give the story its lasting resonance. Marisa Larson is delightful as Jo March. As the driving force of the piece, Jo requires presence and precision, and Larson understands exactly what the role demands. This is not your typical Victorian heroine. She is bold, headstrong, and reaching for something more, and Larson captures just that. The role’s big Act I number, “Astonishing,” provides the perfect showcase for Jo’s fire and determination, and Larson rises to the occasion. Her performance is funny and emotionally immediate, anchoring the production and keeping the story moving forward.
Cohesive Ensemble Elevates the Production
Jocelyn Snider’s Meg brings a steady warmth. Her “More Than I Am” serves as a gentle statement of self-worth. Sarah Barton’s Beth is the show’s quiet center, and her performance carries a sense of restraint that allows the character’s emotional weight to land naturally, especially in “Some Things Are Meant to Be.” As Amy March, Chrissy Biggins handles the role’s crucial arc with a clear sense of progression, growing from youthful mischief into a more grounded emotional maturity. Her evolution feels earned, and she makes that progression both believable and enjoyable to watch. Flynn Delaney’s Laurie adds an easy charm and boyish appeal, bringing a natural ease to the role that makes his presence consistently engaging, particularly in “Take a Chance on Me.”
The production is further strengthened across its supporting roles, with Sarah Haverbusch bringing a calm, reassuring presence to Marmee, Zachary Young offering a grounded counterweight as Professor Bhaer, and Zoe Nienaber making a strong impression as Aunt March, her performance adding a welcome touch of authority and sharpness that rounds out the world of the play.
A Creative Team That Lets the Story Breathe
In Little Women, pacing is everything. Under director Lauren Carr, the storytelling stays clean and forward, and choreographer Kate Stark keeps the movement purposeful and aligned with the narrative.
Lighting by Matt Hollstegge and costumes by Caroline Stine round out an inviting period world, helping to establish a consistent visual language that supports both the intimacy and scope of the piece.
Musically, Howland and Dickstein’s writing blends traditional Broadway sweep with more contemporary, character-first storytelling. With music director Erin McCamley leading a compact live orchestra, that blend feels immediate and intimate, maintaining a strong musical throughline.
Final Verdict
This production is a welcome reminder that Little Women can still land with charm and power when a cast commits to its human-scale storytelling. This is a thoughtful interpretation that highlights the strength of the characters and the care behind its execution.
Tickets to Little Women
Little Women runs March 19, 20, 21, 27, and 28, 2026 in the University Theatre at Mount St. Joseph University. Tickets are available through the MSJ Theatre Arts box office at 513-244-4387 or online at https://msjtheatre.booktix.com/
