Bare Productions has returned to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival this year with their production of ‘Little Women’. A musical adaption of the classic novel by Louisa May Alcott with Music by Jason Howland, Lyrics by Mindi Dickstein, and a book by Allan Knee. This musical tells the story of the March sisters (Jo, Meg, Amy, and Beth) and how they navigate their journeys as girls growing into women during the American Civil War. ‘Little Women’ is directed by Jo Heinemeier, with Hannah Fleming as Musical Director and Charlotte JohnsonWalker as Production Manager. The production is playing at Paradise in Augustines (Venue 152) from 14th-19th August.
The venue for the piece is an intimate one and adds to the sense of domesticity. It is as though the audience has been invited into the March home. The set is effectively simple, with only the necessary props, a chair and a piano that switches into a bookcase. It reflects Jo March’s creativity and wild imagination as well as conveying the March’s poor financial situation. The rest of the space is cleverly utilised by having the actors move through the aisles during scenes which enhances the overall homeliness whilst strengthening the connection between the audience and the characters. It also makes the scenes where Jo’s stories come to life an exhilarating experience.
The direction of Jo Heinemeier is simply brilliant. The plot itself focuses on Jo March’s perspective, but Heinemeier’s meticulous work results in each sister’s story being nuanced and compelling. Amy and Laurie’s inevitable marriage is set up beautifully with subtle glances and smiles upon their early encounters which turns what’s often criticised as a sudden switch of affection into a seed of love that was always present and growing and merely blooms in the final act.
Heinemeier’s direction is complemented by an excellent ensemble. The casting for this show is spot on. Hannah Childs is extraordinary in the role of Jo. She plays the role with a natural charm and enthralling ambition that’s perfect for the young writer. Anna Spence also does a wonderful job portraying Amy’s similarly ambitious attitudes that ultimately cool once she finds her place as a woman in high society. Another standout is Christine Mills who plays Marmee. She gives a deeply moving performance as a grieving mother, and her lovely vibrato is reminiscent of Gertrude Lawrence. The more intimate scenes between the sisters and their suitors are also very endearing. All couples have a sweet, unique chemistry that makes the audience sincerely root for their love. Then of course the tragic end for Beth evoked tears from many. That is the great strength of this cast; their ability to capture the
hearts of their audience completely so that one minute they’ll be laughing and the next, they’re weeping.
The high quality of acting is paired with an equal standard of singing which makes this piece of musical theatre a pleasure to watch. Hannah Fleming’s musical direction has resulted in gorgeously blended harmonies as well as plenty of enjoyable moments where the distinct personalities of each character shines through in song. Colin Cairncross and Charlotte Smith’s rendition of ‘Off to Massachusetts’ – a duet between Beth and Mr. Laurence – is a delightful moment. Additionally, Audrey Jones’s comical portrayal of Aunt March is at its best during the number ‘Could You?’.
The company’s love and appreciation for the story they’re telling is so wonderfully clear in every scene. It’s a true gift to watch a performance where everyone is wholeheartedly devoted to embodying these beloved characters and honouring the famous narrative. Anyone who holds the tale of ‘Little Women’ dear to their heart will adore this production, and anyone who is unfamiliar with it will be inspired to better acquaint themselves. This is a real showcase of Scottish talent and a piece of Musical Theatre not to be missed.
Currently playing till 19th August, get tickets below –
Theatre Scotland 
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