The novel “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott comes alive in the new Broadway musical adaptation, opening August 2, 2019 at the Park Ballroom in Paso Robles, home of Wine Country Theatre.  Perfect for the whole family, this high-energy production is directed by Kelli M Poward, with musical direction by Jeff Mar and choreography by Shirley Kirkes-Mar. Winner of three Drama Desk Awards and having earned a Tony Award nomination, the musical soars with vibrant song and dance.

With book by Allan Knee, music by Jason Howland and lyrics by Mindi Dickstein, the musical is based on the Louisa May Alcott novel, which follows the adventures of Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy March as they grow up in Civil War America. Jo longs to publish a novel. Meg longs for a fiancé. Beth longs for a piano. Amy longs to be admired. As relevant today as when it was written, this timeless tale has been given new life as an exhilarating new musical filled with glorious song, dancing and a few tears. Jason Howland’s score celebrates personal discovery and a young America finding its voice and coming of age in a time of challenge and transformation.

“This is a timeless tale about the power of family, friendship, romance and individuality”, states Wine Country Theatre’s Executive Director, Cynthia Anthony. “Alcott’s novel is still very relevant. The music and lyrics are modern in style and the heroine, Jo, is a contemporary character, even though she first came to life in the novel published over 100 years ago”, Anthony said. 

Featuring a cast of 14, the musical represents some of the finest local talent. Veronica Surber, recently seen as the lead in Wine Country Theatre’s  hit production of Next to Normal, plays the remarkable character of Jo. Libby Parker, seen as Gypsy Rose Lee in Gypsy plays shy Beth.  Tara Brinkman is hopelessly romantic Meg and sassy young Amy is played by Ella Gomez. Local favorites Joseph Whittington, Kathleen Kravets, Marjorie Hamon, James Brescia, Garrett Larsen, Geoff Higgins, Lindsey Taylor, Libby Higgins, Edgar de la Cruz, and newcomer Allan Cossentine round out this energetic and enthusiastic cast. 

A familiar story so dear to us growing up, we appreciate strong women facing challenges, embracing sisterhood, making us long to be more, and believing that “…sometimes when you dream, your dreams come true.”

The shows run from August 2 through August 18.  Performances are 7:30 p.m.  every Friday and Saturday, with a 2:00 p.m. matinee performance every Sunday with an additional Saturday matinee on August 17. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for students. Groups of 8 or more are $20 each.  Wine, beer, snacks, cheese plates, coffee, soda, and desserts are available for purchase. Tickets are available at my805tix.com or via the theatre website, winecountrytheatre.com.  

For more info on Wine Country Theatres’ production of Little Women, the Broadway Musical visit winecountrytheatre.com.