“Little Women” is set to open Thursday, Oct. 23, at the Bert C. Theatre in the ETSU Martin Center for the Arts. The production is Kate Hamill’s adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s novel of the same name.
First published in 1868, the novel follows the March sisters’ lives from girlhood to womanhood. The sisters, Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy, are raised by their mother during the American Civil War. As the girls grow up, each has a distinct storyline and personality type. Each sister’s individuality allows audiences to find themselves within the characters, popularizing the story.
“Hamill’s adaptation of Alcott’s classic novel ‘Little Women’ explores themes of social roles, acceptance, and unconditional love,” Director Melissa Shafer shares. “’Little Women,’ the novel and the play, is a morality tale about treating others with dignity, kindness and love. It is a warm and welcome message in our modern times.”
Shafer’s production will perform on Thursday, Oct. 23, Friday, Oct. 24, and Saturday, Oct. 25 at 7:30 P.M. The production will close with its last showing on Sunday, Oct. 26 at 2 P.M.
Shafer suggests buying tickets in advance because seating is limited and shows often sell out. General admission tickets are $20, and ETSU Student tickets are $10. Purchases can be made through the Martin Center Box Office or through the link on the Department of Theatre and Dance website at https://www.etsu.edu/martin-center/events-tickets/theatre_dancedepartment.php.
Following “Little Women,” the Department of Theatre and Dance will put on “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” This musical comedy focuses on a fictional spelling bee featuring six child contestants, exploring themes of competition, identity, and isolation. The production will open on Wednesday, Nov. 19, and run through Sunday, Nov. 23. For this show, General Admission tickets are $25, and ETSU Student tickets cost $15.
