On November 11, after three months of hard work, the cast and crew were ready for the opening night of Little Women. Over 400 tickets were reserved for the weekend across four shows. With hoop skirts on and lights set, the cast and crew waited eagerly backstage. 

Jo opens her novel, “my mind drifts back to that Christmas Eve so long ago when nothing in our little home seemed wrong and nothing outside seemed right.” Many of us in our community have experienced a similar feeling in the past year and longer. The story of Little Women and the cozy, caring atmosphere of the March family home is a reminder of what truly matters.

Like Jo, we have longed for simpler times to return. We have felt the tinge of uncertainty in the face of change. Our students, peers, and children have felt the pangs of growing up in a time when circumstances are beyond their control. The March family faced similar moments of adversity during the Civil War. Families were torn apart, supplies were often scarce, and families relied on each other for support and comfort. Even Aunt March, the often stubborn matron of the family, is able to lend a hand when times are tough and gives opportunities to both Jo and Amy during the story. 

Many cast members are part of the International Thespian Society (ITS) or will soon be inducted based on their merit and excellence in theatre. The denotation of our double-cast system as "Blue" and "Gold" is based on the ITS colors. Each cast, Blue and Gold, bonded over their characters and craft projects to create a truly special show. 

Faculty mentors spent many hours after school teaching students painting, sewing, and coding lighting and sound cues. Student chief officers, Rhea R., Owen H., Idris A., Varuni R., Isabel D., Elizabeth C., Angela D., and Isabella R. spent many hours sharing their knowledge and experience with other students who volunteered to be on their crews for after-school rehearsals. Many younger students had never done a show before and worked hard to learn the skills they needed from their mentors and crew chiefs. 

It was a true community effort as faculty members and volunteers, Mrs. Zickefoose, Mr. Ludwig, Mr. Dunham, Mr. Martinez, and Mrs. Falgout, taught the students all about their roles in making the stage come alive for opening night.

Thank you to all our patrons who experienced the passion and authenticity expressed in our performance of Lousia May Alcott’s beloved story.