By Mary Penrod
Based on Louisa May Alcott’s classic tale of family, togetherness, and enduring hope, Little Women is a reminder of what’s truly important when heartache and loss are too often the reality. With a soaring score by Jason Howland, lyrics by Mindi Dickstein, and a book by Allan Knee, Little Women is a treat for the ears and a balm for the soul.
West Valley Arts’ production is brimming with talent. The directing team, designers, and acting ensemble are stacked with expertise and experience. Jim Christian (Director) and Karin Gittins (Music Director) have weaved together the perfect balance of vision and artistry. The stage pictures, vocal diction and harmonies, and flow of the production are well executed, and Set Designer Brad Shelton’s minimalistic set provides an unobtrusive pallet for Christian to assemble his vision. Christian has a storied reputation for his expertly directed productions and Little Women is no exception.
The acting ensemble provides rich, nuanced performances. From scene one, Lindsea Garside (Jo March) captivates. Garside handles the challenging score with ease, expertly maneuvering the ebb and flow of Howland’s score. She is equally impressive as an actor. Garside is grounded, rooted to a place of truth. She has a captivating and charismatic presence that gives Jo March a sense of complexity, fire, and passion that is refreshing and familiar. This is complemented by Kelsey Nichols (Costume Design) and Savannah Finley (Hair and Makeup) designs. The costumes and hair choices reflect the more rebellious distinction Jo has from her sisters. Jo is her own person who bucks against the norm for the sake of individualism and the pursuit of happiness. She is the symbol of being true to one’s self regardless of time, place, or convention. Garside is equally matched by the rest of the March sisters, played by Madison McGuire (Meg March), Mia Hansen (Amy March), Ellie Hughes, (Beth March). Each sister is distinct and thoughtfully played. They are strong singers and skillfully handle the libretto with sincerity and poise. Hughes’ turn as Beth is both sweet and tragic, and I found myself tearing up several times during her thoughtful and intimate moments with Jo. I believed the bonds of sisterhood shared between them and was often emotionally affected by their relationship. Melinda Welch (Marme) and Wanda Copier (Aunt March) round out the March family. Welch handles the calm and endearing role of Marme with a steady calmness and dignity, while Copier finds the comedy in the stern and worldly Aunt March.
Ricky Dowse (Laurie) is charming as the young and, at times, naïve Laurie, while Ben Lowell (John Brooke) and Josh Egbert, (Professor Bhaer) handsomely round out the March sisters’ love interests. Both are strong actors with fine voices. And yet, both show a vulnerability that is endearing and complex. Finally, I found Nick Cash (Mr. Laurence) particularly endearing. Although Mr. Laurence is a more minor role, Cash finds a way to expose an otherwise stern man’s softer, more compassionate center.
Perhaps the most relevant aspect of this wonderfully realized production is the sentiment that “nothing is too painful to survive” when we have each other. In the era of COVID, political strife, and separateness, Little Women considers what is essential. It reminds us of the power of connection, the necessity of familial bonds, and the enduring nature of hope and compassion.
This West Valley Arts’ production should not be missed. They consistently produce some of the best theatre in the Salt Lake Valley. Professional talent, expert storytelling, and affordability (the ticket prices are the most reasonable in town) make Little Women an obvious choice for the perfect night out at the theatre. Buy your tickets: Go see it!
West Valley Arts presents Little Women, Music by Jason Howland, Lyrics by Mindi Dickstein, Book by Allan Knee.
West Valley Performing Arts Center, 3333 S, Decker Lake Dr, West Valley City, UT 84119
April 21 – May 14, 2022
Tickets : $20-25.00 (Check out their Facebook profile for discount codes)
Contact: 801-965-5140, harmanboxoffice@wvc-ut.gov
Box Office Hours: Wednesday – Saturday 10:00 AM-8:00 PM
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