Little Women, the Musical, Comes to EMS Stage

Eastern Mennonite School presents the musical Little Women, January 24, 25 and 26.

Based on Louisa May Alcott’s classic 1869 semi-autobiographical novel, the story focuses on the four March sisters— traditional Meg, played by Afton Rhodes-Lehman ‘20; wild, aspiring writer Jo, played by Maggie Fairfield ‘21; timid Beth played by Meg Beyer ‘20; and romantic Amy, played by Emma Schwertfuehrer ‘20.

The girls interact with their beloved Marmee, played by Ginny Miller ‘20, at home in Concord, Massachusetts, while their father is away serving as a Union Army chaplain during the Civil War. Despite the title, important male characters are also prominent as friends and suitors. Woven amongst the vignettes in which their lives unfold are several recreations of the melodramatic short stories of Jo’s melodramatic short stories involving hats, trolls, a knight, and a swashbuckling hero and villain.

The show is directed by Joy Anderson. Jim Clemens directs the orchestra, and choreography is by Suzanne Trow.

Performances are Friday and Saturday, January 24 and 25 at 7 p.m., and Sunday, January 26 at 3 p.m. in the school’s auditorium. A pay-what-you-will dress rehearsal will take place on Thursday, January 23.

Tickets go on sale January 6. Reserved tickets are $15 for all ages. General admission $12 adults, $10 students/senior citizens.

Eastern Mennonite School is located at 801 Parkwood Drive, Harrisonburg. Access the auditorium from Parkwood Drive. Traveling east off of Route 42, pass the building on the left and turn into the lane. Watch for signs. Proceed to the large lot behind the building.

Call 540-236-6025 with questions.