How Little Women works as a musical is beyond me even though every book, musical and play seems to be adapted into one these days. The show proved to be a splendid tale, thanks to the delightful songs and the talented cast of the Lyric Stage production. Filled with talent and heart, director Michael Serrecchia and his actors delivered a refreshing escape from the real world into the lives of these women.
As a first impression the set leaned into the literary pedigree of Louisa May Alcott’s most famous novel. Stage pieces were primarily the book spines of all her titles with a prominent display of Little Women, the book. A whimsical idea but this kept me from being fully immersed into the compelling story as scenes were acted out in front of or books that served as platforms and steps. Plus, with dual screen projections, the stage often felt crowded once multiple actors, and movable set pieces were in the mix.
The cast moved through the stage with grace which allowed for the narrative to work with a relatively easy pace amid the set. The flow of the show felt effortless in transitions and slight set changes. The flow was certainly helped by the assured tones of the five-piece orchestra led by Music Director Hans Grim which weaved the appropriately convivial score with elegance into the story.
The show hinged on the eldest sister Jo March who was played with astounding poise by Grayson Gardi in her Lyric debut. She carried the show with aplomb and a gorgeous voice.
Delaney Wenger was a versatile dynamo who delivered both comedic and dramatic chops with ease. Krista Sprankle served well as she show’s heart as sister Amy and Lily Hogge turned her performance as Beth into a striking counterpoint to Gardi’s Jo.
As Laurie and Mr. Brooke, Colin Willett and Luke Weber delivered their parts with earnest charm.I was torn on the chemistry between Gardi’s Jo and Cameron Vargas’ Professor Bhaer. Vargas’ performance was resolute with a distinguished composure and subtlety, but as a pair, Gardi and Vargas never quite uncovered the depth Jo and the professor needed.
As the more matured characters, Sarah Powell brought warmth to Marmee, the mother to the March women. Michael Robinson was a proper curmudgeon turned friendly as Mr. Laurence and Catherine Carpenter Cox served up fab glamour as Aunt March.
With its slight bumps, Little Women was still a heartfelt and satisfying experience to see unfold. Serrecchia led his actors into top notch performances as did Grim and his music direction all which brought joyous life to Allan Knee’s story and Jason Howland and Mindi Dickstein’s music and lyrics.
The show runs through Feb. 22.