The Hoban Theatre Department prepares to bring the play “Little Women” to life on Nov. 15 and 16, presenting a new take on the timeless tale. Four sisters: Jo, Beth, Amy and Meg March illustrate the struggle of becoming women in the 1860s through their world of expectations, determination and change. This version, written by playwright Kate Hamill in 2021, reimagines Louisa May Alcott’s 19th century story through a more feminist lens.
“It really shines a light on what women go through,” director Alex Funk said. “We’ve realized that while a lot has changed since the 1860s, a lot hasn’t. This is still important. Our voices still need to be heard.”
This edition of Little Women also explores ideas of feminine and masculine character traits, specifically through characters such as Jo and Laurie, the boy next door to the March family.
“Jo is much more aggressive and demonstrates the ideals of what men should do. Laurie is a little softer; he demonstrates more of what women are supposed to do,” Funk said.
Junior Roman Delgado, who portrays Laurie, added some personal insight into the message behind his character.
He stated that “Laurie’s story teaches how to handle rejections and relationships with maturity. That’s something everyone can relate to, especially in high school,” Delgado said.
However, putting together a full production isn’t without challenges.
“The hardest part has been timing.” Funk described. “Our rehearsals are short, and everything moves fast. But the students here have handled it incredibly well.”
Behind the scenes, the crew works just as hard as the actors to put on a show with sound, lights, and props.
“If we don’t have the crew, the show is going to come to a raging halt. They are very integral in making sure that things look correct. Even though they’re not on stage performing with the actual actors, they are still a part of the world of the play,” Funk said.
For actors, preparing for the show takes energy outside of practice too.
“Memorization is usually always a hard thing, but once you get your lines memorized, the chemistry between actors and actresses is really fun,” said Delgado.
For many students, the theatre program is more than just an extracurricular, it provides a place for people to be themselves. A sense of belonging truly allows Hoban Theatre to be the best it can be.
“There’s passion, there’s hunger and that’s what makes great theatre. As long as that spirit continues, Hoban’s theatre program will keep growing stronger,” Funk said.
As opening night draws closer, excitement is building for all involved.
“The entire show is to see how teenagers act about 100 or so years ago and see how now it’s really not that different.” Delgado said. Come see Little Women on Nov. 15 and 16 for a chance to see this inspirational story!
Tickets can be purchased here.
