As the curtain kept rising from the night of January 28th and until February 1st, the lives of the March sisters came to life in the heartfelt rendition that graced the Brookfield Central Stage. For viewers who were not aware of the show, all the necessary information was contained in the program received upon entry. Little Women, a musical based on the novel by Louisa May Alcott, follows four young sisters as they navigate life amidst the Civil War and their own internal battles for love, status, or passion. Despite the little time between the fall musical and the winter one, the cast and crew created a nostalgic and truly accomplished production. 

Inside Brookfield Central’s own Black Box Theater, set designers Chris Forgie and Tabb Patz worked together to create a wonderful masterpiece. The set was multifaceted, allowing for scenes in highly furnished rooms like the Marches’ house or sparser, more upscale decor for scenes in ballrooms. Numerous personal touches made the space feel authentic, such as an 150 year old Potbelly Stove.

In addition to the wonderful set, the talent at Brookfield Central was astounding. Bella Bloxham, who played Jo March, portrayed her role so beautifully and painfully raw that it moved many audience members to tears. Furthermore, the acting of Addi Brennan, Malena Sorrentino, Adara Neilson, Brooklyn Hoffe, Max Martin, Michael Foster, and many others in the wonderfully talented ensemble all contributed to a rendition that serves as a reminder of how Alcott’s novel transcends time. 

And let’s not forget the amazing run crew and costume crew who made these productions all possible. The scene changes were smooth and effortless, and the costumes transported all who wore and saw them right back to the 1800s. 

Brookfield Central is so lucky to have two back-to-back musicals during the school year. The students, parents, and faculty who make up this amazing production should be nothing less than thrilled with the 5-star masterpiece of a musical they put together.