The Memorial High School theatre department is proud to present the play “Little Women.” The production, which features a small cast and focuses on character work, will be performed for the public Thursday through Saturday at 7 p.m. at the high school auditorium. There is also a 2 p.m. Saturday show for the swing cast.
Theatre teacher Zachary Jackson picked this play because he wanted a well-known act for the audience that also highlights his cast’s strengths.
“I knew we have a lot of very strong female actors, and this show requires that,” Jackson said. “So I wanted to play our strengths that we have. I also knew that I would be having an assistant director with us, and I thought it would be a fun process for her to be able to work on this show as well.”
Junior Phebe Atkins plays the lead role of Jo March, a fiercely independent writer who challenges the societal norms of her time during the 1860s.
“I would describe my character as being very determined, ambitious, and I would say she is very knowing of what she wants,” Atkins said.
When asked about her favorite part of playing the role, Atkins said, “I really like just being on stage and getting to act as a family with the other girls. I think that’s really fun.”
Junior Mackenzie Edwards plays the role of Meg March, a graceful and responsible figure who embodies traditional ideals of family life.
“My favorite part is definitely putting emotions into my lines and really thinking about her motivations and just getting into being the character,” Edwards said.
The other sisters also enjoy their characters for many reasons. Madi Graham, a sophomore playing the shy, reserved sister Beth, likes the tragic ending of her character because when Beth passes away, “I think it’s really beautiful.” Sophomore Scarlett O’Harra plays the sister Amy and enjoys performing fun, sisterly arguments with Jo.
Rounding out the main cast is Junior Isaac Ferguson, who performs the role of Laurie Laurence. Laurie is introduced as the charming, wealthy boy next door who is initially lonely and somewhat spoiled. However throughout the play he becomes a fundamental part of the March family lives.
Ferguson described his role as an initially immature and childish young man.
“I would say he comes off as cocky, but kind of charming although he is also emotionally immature,” Ferguson said.
Throughout the setting up and planning process for the upcoming production, the theatre department has benefited greatly from the assistance of Macy Davis. Serving as both the assistant director and student teacher within the department, Jackson said Davis has provided valuable assistance and support throughout the entire production. Her help has significantly helped prepare the entire cast for the play.
