Director Madelyn Dorta might be a bit insane, a trifle arrogant, for sure she’s very talented. After all, taking on such an iconic work as that of Little Women, the Civil War Era coming of age tale, is a monumental challenge in that the immensely popular novel has been adapted for stage many, many times beginning in 1912 as well as seven film adaptations with super stars like Katherine Hepburn, Saoirse Ronan, Elizabeth Taylor, Emma Watson, Laura Dern and Meryl Streep in various roles from Jo to Aunt March, not to mention the TV adaptations. How do a cast and crew from Moline , Illinois compete? Quite well, actually.
Playcrafters’ current production of Little Women is impressive from the moment you enter the stage area and see the elaborate set designed by the multi-talented Roger Pavey, Jr. and executed by an army of builders which makes maximum use of space, including an attic garret where Jo retreats to pursue her passion for writing. Set dressing led by Kathy Graham and her team is equally impressive and although there are a few small but understandable anachronisms, they are so small, most won’t even notice them.
Heading up this accomplished cast as the excitable tomboy, Jo, is Kassidy Holdridge whose effervescent exuberance virtually explodes on the stage. Is it any wonder then that the young Laurie, the grandson of a wealthy neighbor, here portrayed by Thayne Lamb, falls head-over-heels for the vivacious Jo?
Bringing in strong support in the roles of Meg, Beth and Amy, are Shyan DeVoss, Bella Hernandez, and Emma Terronez, respectively. Hernandez, making her debut at Playcrafters, is particularly notable in that while she is only a senior at Pleasant Valley High School , she has 22 shows under her belt and that experience serves her well.
Appearing as Marmee is Janessa Ormsby. Although she brought in a good performance, I had a bit of trouble accepting her in this role because her attractive, youthful appearance made it somewhat difficult to accept her as a Victorian Era matron with teenaged children. She easily could have played one of the March sisters.
That aside, this show is well worth seeing. It’s like snuggling up in front of a cozy fire with your best friend and a hot cup of cocoa – even during a July heat wave.
Little Women continues at Playcrafters Barn Theatre, 4950 36th Avenue in Moline, Friday and Saturday, July 28 and 29 at 7:30 pm and Sunday, July 30 at 3:00 pm.
I’m Chris Hicks…break a leg.