Review: JO - THE LITTLE WOMEN MUSICAL, Theatre Royal Drury Lane
Photo credit: Roger Alacorn
Jo - The Little Women Musical in concert brings Louisa May Alcott’s beloved Little Women to life in a brand-new stage adaptation, which was presented at Theatre Royal Drury Lane last night (25 Jan).
A 27-piece orchestra, conducted by Dan Redfeld, is present on the back half of the stage, with a 10-piece vocal ensemble, and the cast performing in front. The orchestra immediately set the atmosphere, sounding magical as the cast begin the story.
The March sisters are flawlessly portrayed by Kelly Mathieson (Meg), Christine Allado (Jo), Eleanor Grant (Beth) and Sophie Pollono (Amy), instantly stealing every heart in the audience. Their voices blend beautifully, while each also sounding stunning solo.
Stand out performances come from Tobias Turley as Laurie in ‘No Turning Back’, Turley and Sophie Pollono as Amy in the song ‘My Captive Heart’, and Kerry Ellis as Marmee in ‘Between the Earth and the Sky’. Act Two certainly seems stronger musically, but that’s not to take away from the fantastic music in Act One, composed by Dan Redfeld. The show is closed by Christine Allado as Jo singing ‘This is Our Story’, a song full of hope and wonder and a strong reminder that even in the toughest times, things can get better.
The set is minimal, with the main pieces being a sofa, piano and piano stool. Given this show is a musical concert rather than a fully produced musical at this point, this is to be expected and not to be disappointed by. Perhaps not anything to write home about, the costumes are clearly considered with each March sister changing into a second outfit to signify their transition from childhood to adulthood’ Amy’s costumes in particular stand out.
Little Women is a timeless classic, a story loved by every generation since is initial publication in 1868. To bring it to the stage, especially when other stage adaptations of the book exist already, is no easy task. The amount of time, work and consideration that has gone into making Jo - The Little Women Musical pays off tremendously, undoubtedly earning itself a spot in the West End in all its fully produced glory. Hopefully London doesn’t have to wait too long.
Upon arrival at the theatre, we were informed the lift was not working, meaning there was no step-free access to our seats in the Royal Circle. The access team and manager swiftly sorted out alternative seating in the Stalls, despite it being a sold out show, and were incredibly helpful throughout the duration of our visit.
Jo - The Little Women Musical is a stunning new adaptation and a must see for Little Women fans of all ages and walks of life.
***** Five stars
Reviewed by: Kate Soper
