Little Women – The Lowry Theatre, Salford

Writer: Louisa May Alcott

Director: Loveday Ingram

Loveday Ingram’s faithful and heartfelt production of Little Womencurrently playing at The Lowry Theatre in Salford brings Louisa May Alcott’s cherished classic to the stage with warmth, wit, and tenderness. It’s a lovingly rendered adaptation that honours the spirit of the novel, capturing the essence of the March sisters’ journey from childhood to womanhood with a keen sense of intimacy and emotional truth.

One of the standout features of this production is Ruari Murchison’s beautifully sensitive set design. The space is cleverly utilised to evoke both the cosy domesticity of the March family home and the wider world into which the sisters tentatively step. This intimate setting enhances the storytelling, drawing the audience into the heart of the action and allowing a deep emotional connection to the characters’ individual journeys and collective growth.

The cast deliver outstanding performances, especially in their creation of an effortless sibling chemistry between the four March sisters. Their dynamic feels entirely believable, full of affection, exasperation, and that unmistakable sisterly bond. Grace Molony shines as the irrepressible Jo March, balancing boisterous ambition with moments of moving vulnerability. Her energy is infectious, and she anchors the production with a performance that is both fierce and tender. Jade Kennedy is a delight as Meg, bringing charm and subtle comic timing to the role, eliciting laughter with something as simple and perfectly executed as a raised eyebrow. Imogen Elliott captures Amy’s youthful naivety with spirit and conviction, while Catherine Chalk gives a touching and sincere portrayal of the gentle Beth. Belinda Lang brings sharp wit and a commanding presence to the role of Aunt March, while Honeysuckle Weeks offers a grounded and compassionate portrayal of Marmee, steering the sisters with both strength and sensitivity.

However, one of the production’s shortcomings is the pacing, which sadly seems to lose momentum as the story unfolds. Some transitions between scenes feel unnecessarily drawn out whilst moments that ought to carry significant emotional weight, particularly Beth’s death, feel somewhat rushed. As a result, this crucial scene lacks the resonance it holds in the novel, which may leave some audience members feeling slightly short-changed.

Musically, Matthew Bugg’s understated score serves the piece well. The songs are charming and well-integrated into the fabric of the story, helping to maintain a gentle emotional undercurrent without ever overwhelming the narrative. While the musical numbers may not linger long in the memory, they are beautifully performed and contribute to the overall warmth of the production.

Ultimately, thisLittle Womenis a heartfelt and respectful homage to Alcott’s beloved novel. Though the direction occasionally lacks a sense of dynamism, the production is carried by a strong ensemble of performances. It is a quietly compelling production that reminds us why the story of the March sisters continues to resonate so deeply.

Runs until 12 April 2025