Pennsylvania Playhouse’s production of Kate Hamill’s adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s 19th century novel “Little Women” is bristling with energy and filled with heart.
Engaging and satisfying. the play based on the beloved story of the March sisters, is on stage through Dec. 21 at Pennnsylvania Playhouse, 390 Illick’s Mill Road, Bethlehem.
Anchoring the story is the delightful Mia Zappacosta, whose spirited and brash Jo March is the heart of the show. Zappacosta brings relentless energy to the character who defies the Victorian conventions that were expected of women at the time. Zappacosta’s Jo is appealingly headstrong and bold as she defiantly focuses on her goal of becoming a writer, as well as humorously awkward when she is forced to dress “like a lady” for a party. Emma Funderburk is sweetly wan, but with a strong inner will, as the sickly Beth March. Funderbunk makes Beth, the stoic peacemaker whose behind the scenes’ efforts brings about positive changes.
Rivaling Zappacosta’s Jo in energy level, is Angella Brown as the spoiled and overly theatrical Amy March. Brown’s Amy is a self-absorbed whirlwind who often clashes with Jo and their conflicts create on-stage sparks.
Bryanna Pye rounds out the sisters as the world weary Meg March who is caring and practical, and always the voice of calm.
Alec Gould is impetuous and charming as Laury Laurence, the well-to-do boy-next-door. Gould also brings lots of energy to the role of the playful man-child, and he and Zappacosta’s Jo have a dynamic chemistry.
Krista Metter skillfully plays both the solid, loving and supportive Marmee March and the sharp-tongued and judgemental Aunt March.
Bringing to life Meg’s stiff suitor John Brooks, Shawn McCoy makes the character standoffish but agreeable.
Charlie Dalrymple does triple duty as the gruff but kind Mr. Laurence; the injured and angry Mr. March and the doctor who treats Beth.
Nana Nyanor gives a bit of spirit to the small role of the family’s no-nonsense maid Hannah.
Melissa Miller directs,
Costume designer Safran Astra has created a palette of attractive and fussy 19th century outfits, with particular emphasis on Jo’s unconventional outfits,
Scenic and lighting designer Brett Oliveira’s set encompasses a huge wall that moves back and forth to change scenes from the March’s comfortable home (complete with a cozy fireplace and an anachronistic portrait of the four sisters over the mantel) to the Laurence home and outdoors. It’s a little clunky moving at times, but effective.
The Dec. 12 performance will feature understudies Sarah Wright as Jo, Gianna Kegler as Beth; Seye Dada as Laurie; Daniel VanArsdale as John Brooks and Amy Oselkin as Hannah.
Tickets are $25 for adults; $22 for seniors and $15 for students. The playhouse offers "pay what you are able" for the performance Dec. 13.
Performances are 7:30 p.m. Dec. 12, 13, 19 and 20; and 3 p.m. Dec. 14 and 21.
For information, call 610-865-6665, or go to www.paplayhouse.org/.