Louisa May Alcott’s timeless novel Little Women is a beloved cornerstone of classic literature, often celebrated for its progressive themes and enduring portrayal of strong, complex women. Over the years, it has inspired countless adaptations, each exploring the story’s emotional depth and themes of gender, identity and independence. In Adelaide, The Hills Musical Company’s Little Women: The Broadway Musical captures the story’s pure essence of sisterhood, resilience and ambition.
Since its founding in 1972, The Hills Musical Company in Adelaide has grown from a grassroots effort to save a local building, into a thriving cornerstone of the Stirling arts community. With a legacy rooted in its award-winning production of Kiss Me, Kate in 1973, HMC now shares the Stirling Community Theatre with other local groups, continuing to deliver acclaimed musical theatre to South Australian audiences.
Vanessa Redmond and Tammy Shields, co-direct this production in collaboration with Dylan Rufus as Musical Director and Ashleigh Rathjen as Choreographer. And what a team this is! From the very first notes of the Overture, it was easy to forget I was watching a local production. Not many companies can boast a polished live orchestra in the local scene!
The beautiful Stirling Institute transports us to the Victorian era, with a grand set that expanded wall to wall. Rathjen’s choreography and positioning made purposeful use of the space for a show with minimal dancing. Her creation of ‘Five Forever,’ however, allowed the cast to exhibit some fun movement.
This musical’s unique trait is the way in which the original March sisters are honoured and given the further character dimension they deserve. The show centres around Jo’s passionate drive to become a writer, and her fierce defiance against the set gender roles. She navigates the reality of womanhood in the 18th century, yet her journey remains ever so relevant today.
Capturing this is Grace Carter, who is exquisite as Jo. Having seen this show before, it is always exciting to witness a fresh approach to the character. Carter’s portrayal is full of heart. She expresses Jo’s fierce independence in Act One, and her emotional depth in Act Two. Her show-stopping rendition of ‘Astonishing,’ can really only be described as such!
The cast has developed a believable March family dynamic that feels warm and genuine. The anchor of the household is Marmee, played by Lucy Trewin, who is both compassionate and steadfast.
Embodying the values of empathy and moral courage, Trewin forges her way into the hearts of the audience. Her epic renditions of ‘Here Alone,’ and later in Act Two, ‘Days of Plenty’ are an incredible display of vocal talent. Both songs impressively showcase the full extent of her soprano range.
The youngest March sister is played by Immi Beattie, a rising performer and one to watch as she soars through the Adelaide scene. Amy March is initially cheeky and precociously self-assured. She’s a child with a flair for theatrics and a strong sense of self-determination. Beattie’s portrayal is an audience’s delight. There were many giggles at her dramatic behaviour, which provided light-hearted relief from the show’s tougher themes. Beattie’s Act Two switch to the well-established and mature Amy serves to highlight her diversity as a performer.
Meg March and Beth March, played by Jasmine Howis and Iris Nissen, also beautifully capture the essence of their characters’ journeys. Nissen’s duet, ‘Some Things Are Meant to Be,’ performed with Carter, is deeply touching. Together they create a moment of sincerity and evoke an emotional response from the audience. (Cue tears and sniffles).
A performer to also commend is Max Maher, cast as Laurie in just his second-ever role! An impressive feat that sees him hold his own as he brings the charming boy-next door to life.
John Frost (Professor Bhaer), Henry Davis (John Brooke), and Gus Smith (Mr Laurence) bring warmth and depth to the story’s key male characters. While the narrative centres on the March women, these roles show how support and love can take many forms.
Susie O’Connell expertly plays the sharp-tongued Aunt March. Never needing to move much, her facial expressions and enunciations are powerful enough to command full attention!
Little Women is a beautifully crafted production from The Hills Musical Company that brings fresh depth to the beloved story. You’ll leave the theatre feeling deeply connected to these timeless characters. And you’ll have a sudden urge to go home and hug your family.
Little Women the Musical runs to 24 May at Stirling Community Theatre, Avenues Road, Stirling SA 5152.
Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1333154
Website: https://www.hillsmusical.org.au/littlewomen/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/hillsmusicalcompany/
Photo credits: Daniel Salmond
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