Within one modest household, storybook characters leap from one aspiring young author’s written words as she bellows them passionately to anyone who will listen, a strong-willed mother watches over her disparate children, and a lonely yet optimistic young man and his cantankerous grandfather grow to treasure each one of these little women as they face the obstacles of missing a loved one, working to leave a mark on the world, and wanting to grow up already in Century High School’s production of  “Little Women: The Broadway Musical”.

Based on the novel by Louisa May Alcott, this classic story opened on Broadway in 2005, enlivened by songs by Jason Howland and Mindi Dickstein. Set in the Civil War era in New York City, frequent flashbacks bring the story back in time to the March household in Concord, Massachusetts, where Jo’s tenacity and vehement goal of becoming a famous writer spur her actions and feelings toward her beloved family and newfound friends.

With a mere ten-person cast and the additional challenge of using the black-box theater style, the performers needed to consistently utilize powerful facial expressions and movements to keep their characters distinctive—this they did meticulously. Scene after scene, the performers developed their characters by interacting with each other and reacting to occurrences in the scene in a way that emphasized the most definitive aspects of their characters’ personalities. By the curtain call, a strong unity was formed between all of the characters, each one’s idiosyncrasies fusing into a golden bond that inevitably brought tears to the audience members’ eyes. It was this unity that anchored the production.

Mallorie Stern’s interpretation of Jo was phenomenal. Slashing across the stage in a whirl of high-energy audaciousness and spunk, Stern was on top of every line and vocal, using her movement and face to portray the unconventional young spirit that is Jo March. A nice accompaniment to Stern was Griffin DeLisle (Laurie) who, with a big smile and innocent disposition, delivered spot-on vocals. Yet another notable mention goes to Jack DelNunzio (Professor Bhaer), who maintained an accurate German accent, holding it through the challenging number “Small Umbrella in the Rain”.

Every performer featured in this musical was sensational. Kylie Cooley brought a hilariously bombastic Aunt March to life with a poised brashness and more than several sassy eye-rolls. Cassie Saunders (Beth) delivered one flawless high note after another while maintaining a reserved and sweet-tempered presence. Cody Fandel (Mr. Laurence) did a wonderful job of portraying an aloof gentleman with little spurts of happiness that transitioned his character into a lovable father figure.

Though some technological aspects of the show hit some roadblocks (such as a faulty microphone and forgotten set change) the actors and tech crew recovered quickly and seamlessly. The costumes were extremely impressive, detailed, and time-period appropriate, vivifying the story and the significance of the historical aspect of the plot.

Overall, “Little Women: The Broadway Musical” was a pleasure to experience and displayed the commendable talents of the performers and tech crew of Century High School.

by Devon Burke of Annapolis