Little Women | Yvonne Arnaud

Louisa May Alcott’s timeless classic Little Women returns to the stage, once again delighting audiences both new and old. As a lifelong admirer of the story—particularly the beloved 1994 film adaptation starring Winona Ryder—this reviewer entered the theatre with high expectations. Perhaps unfairly so, yet this production rose to the challenge with grace and conviction, leaving a lasting impression on its audience.

Bringing Little Women to life on stage is no small feat. The story weaves together so many layers—love and loss, ambition and restraint, laughter and sorrow—often shifting tone in the space of a single scene. It remains one of the most complete coming-of-age tales ever written, exploring the trials and triumphs of womanhood in a way that transcends generations.

This production is no different, bringing to life the stories of the March family with such poise and dignity that it is a wonder why this show needs to end at all. Natalie Dunne in the role of Jo was simply perfect—capturing the obstinate nature of the character, as well as her fierce devotion to her family, with a gentle ease. From uproars of laughter to tears of joy, Dunne commanded the stage and transported the crowd into the world of the March family.

Perhaps one of the most difficult characters to convey on stage, Jewelle Hutchinson in the role of Amy March was sublime. Whilst all the sisters grow up alongside each other, the greatest transformation comes from Amy as she transitions from childhood to adulthood through the years, whilst her sisters begin the tale already nearing adult life. Hutchinson handled this delicate progression with remarkable sensitivity, balancing youthful petulance with emerging poise, never once losing sight of Amy’s underlying warmth.

The novel was adapted for the stage in this production by Anne-Marie Casey, and boy does it do justice to the story. Casey captured the grace and elegance of Louisa May Alcott’s words to condense them into a short two hours and thirty minutes, without ever feeling rushed or overwhelming. Her script honors the heart of the original, while allowing each sister her moment to shine—a true ensemble piece that celebrates family, forgiveness, and fortitude.

The production design by Ruari Murchison also deserves mention. The set, both simple and evocative, included a few trees, around which the March sisters would navigate signalling to their youthful mannerisms, and the occasional piece of furniture, which fit the warmth of the March family home to the grandeur of European salons seamlessly. Lighting by Mike Robertson was used to beautiful effect—soft, golden hues evoking the nostalgia of memory, and starker tones underscoring the story’s more somber turns. The costuming by Murchison, too, was exquisite, capturing the period with authenticity while never distracting from the performances, hinting at tones reminiscent of the Jane Austen novels.

Under the direction of Loveday Ingram, the production struck a careful balance between sentimentality and sincerity. It would have been easy to lean too heavily into nostalgia, yet this staging felt fresh and alive, offering something new even to those who know every beat of the story by heart. By the time the final curtain fell, there was a palpable sense of affection in the theatre—both for the characters and for the cast who brought them to life. Little Women remains as resonant as ever, reminding us of the enduring power of love, family, and the pursuit of one’s dreams. This production stands as a testament to why Alcott’s work continues to captivate audiences over 150 years later: because it speaks to the humanity in all of us.

Little Women plays at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre until 25th October 2025.

Tickets and More Information

★★★★★ (5*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review