Little Women is a classic tale of family love, tensions and the quest for individuality in times of trouble.
Photo © Nobby Clark
Anne Marie Casey’s adaptation playing at the Theatre Royal Bath begins with promise, but somehow falls away with the women becoming harsh stereotypes.
Directed by Loveday Ingram, the episodic and repetitive nature stalls the energy and empathy that is necessary to find the heart of the girls’ struggles.
Natalie Dunne is Josephine, the headstrong writer who refuses to allow herself to love. Whilst Amelia Gabriel is Beth, whose fate, aside from being the invisible middle child, is very much one without ambition or expectation.
Jewelle Hutchinson plays an irritating and spoilt Amy. Alongside Zoë Clayton-Kelly as Meg.
Perry Williams is the dashing Laurie whilst Tom Richardson plays John Brooke and Professor Bhaer.
Belinda Lang is the formidable Aunt March whilst Juliet Aubrey is Marmee, who wishes for her daughters security and happiness. Ruari Murchison creates a warm Design with atmospheric lighting by Mike Robertson.
The passing seasons are punctuated by song and the feeling that the circle of life, regardless of its struggles, carries on regardless.
