Performers Passionate About ‘Little Women’

Being part of the cast of Urbana High School’s fall production of “Little Women” was the kind of senior high school experience that any student hopes for – thought provoking, influential and gratifying.

This musical version, based on Louisa May Alcott’s novel, incorporates emotionally charged songs that add a refreshing layer to a classic story.

“‘Little Women’ was a very special experience. The show is set during the Civil War but is still so relevant to our lives today, telling an extraordinary story of an ordinary household,” said Maggie Shea, a UHS sophomore who portrayed Beth. “It’s simple, but elegant. Performing it never failed to fill me with happiness. It’s an art form and a show I feel truly passionate about, and sharing what we had worked so hard to create was always an incredible feeling.”

Originally, the run was only intended to last Nov. 5-9, but director Tim Broeker decided to submit the show to the Illinois High School Theatre Festival. This process requires a panel of judges to attend one of the performances, followed by a talk-back session with the cast and crew.

When “Little Women” was accepted, the preparation began. The festival’s theme this year – “Ignite the Passion Within” – appropriately describes what the show evokes from audience members and performers alike.
The cast, crew, and production staff then moved to Foellinger Auditorium at the University of Illinois for a Saturday, Jan. 10, performance.

Senior Jack Wright, who portrayed Professor Bhaer, said, “‘Little Women’ was one of my favorite shows to perform. It’s always bittersweet to end a show, but after taking this one – which meant so much to me – to TheatreFest, it was especially so. I’m sad to see it go, but I can’t wait for the next one.”

The experience also drew attention from the Urbana community, The News-Gazette, and local online magazine Smile Politely.