Quote of the Day: Alcott was an icon – a model of grit with an unstoppable brain and wide-ranging creativity. She proved that women’s stories can change the world. That’s a powerful legacy. Lauren Gunderson on her new adaptation of Little Women, from an interview with Wendy Weckwerth, Dramaturg at the Guthrie Theater, printed in the playbill for Little Women. 

George Keller (Marmee), May Heinecke (Beth), Isabella Star LaBlanc (Louisa/Jo), Audrey
Parker (Amy), and Stephanie Anne Bertumen (Meg) in Little Women at the Guthrie Theater, thru 6/21/26. Photo: Dan Norman

I was one of those girls who read Little Women in about 6th grade, for the first time, and reread it several more times. Although, I haven’t read it recently. I identified with Jo, naturally, since she was the writer and liked to dramatize stories with her sisters, and added their neighbor and friend Laurie once they got acquainted. I loved the stories of sisters growing up together, playing, learning, fighting, complaining, and having a loving mother who allowed them to do all those things. It’s an endearing story. I’ve watched many film and stage adaptations. I found Lauren Gunderson’s latest adaptation of this beloved story delightful and tender, rich and meaningful. She captures the feeling of living inside the book and experiencing the story as it unfolds. Sometimes the characters act out the scenes, and other times stop for a moment while someone speaks as if they’re reading the words from the page, letting the moment sink in as we imagine the emotions behind the words and actions.

The cast of Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women at the Guthrie Theater, thru 6/21/26. Photo: Dan Norman

Isabella Star LaBlanc is a strong and confident Jo March. As the lights to up, she greets us as Louisa May Alcott herself, the author never let society dictate what her life would be. She tells us that the publishers want a book about girls, and that she isn’t interested. As she contemplates the possibility, however, she looks to her own life, her own family and the bond she shared with her own sisters, the heartaches and struggles, and the story begins.

May Heinecke (Beth), Audrey Parker (Amy), Isabella Star LaBlanc (Louisa/Jo), and
Stephanie Anne Bertumen (Meg) in Little Women at the Guthrie Theater, thru 6/21/26. Photo: Dan Norman

Stephanie Anne Bertumen plays Meg, the eldest and the first to leave the nest. I really felt for Jo as she tries to stop the romance between Meg and John from happening. She sees him as someone who will take her sister away, changing their family dynamic. But, you can’t stay young forever. Children grow up and stop playing. They fall in love and form new families. 

May Heinecke plays the sweet Beth, the one at the people, shy and introverted. She has a special place in Jo’s heart, but she can’t save her from everything. Audrey Parker plays a charming and energetic Amy, the youngest, the artist, and a little spoiled. She’s always trying to keep up, weasel her way into be invited, and throwing a fit when she doesn’t get her way. But she, too, grows up, and finds her own path.

George Keller (Marmee), May Heinecke (Beth), Isabella Star LaBlanc (Louisa/Jo), Audrey Parker (Amy), and Stephanie Anne Bertumen (Meg) in Little Women at the Guthrie Theater, thru 6/21/26. Photo: Dan Norman

Daniel Petzold plays Laurie, the lonely boy who lives next door with his rich grandfather. He looks longingly over the fence at the four siblings who have each other. When he finally gets the courage to talk to Jo at a party, their friendship quickly forms and he’s one of the family. Petzold gave Laurie so much spirit and emotion. He was a delight to watch. 

George Keller plays Marmee, the girls’ mother, who is the glue to the family. Bill McCallum pops in as both Mr. March and Mr. Laurence, giving the two characters distinction. I really felt for him as Mr. Laurence during certain moments in the play. Logan Lang is the awkward and lovable John Brooks, and Joe Bigelow is the quiet and kind Professor Friedrich Bhaer. All characters that make the story complete.

Joe Bigelow (Friedrich) and Isabella Star LaBlanc (Louisa/Jo) in Little Women at the Guthrie Theater, thru 6/21/26. Photo: Dan Norman

The set, designed by Junghyun Georgia Lee, has a unique quality of including both outdoor and indoor elements. The floor is covered in green, like grass or moss. Specific set pieces are scattered throughout, a piano towards the back, a couple of chests, and a couch. All used to represent each scene. Director Jackson Gay makes great use of the large thrust stage and it’s well-placed set pieces. The actors move in and around it, face each other, or out, and give us a strong sense of where they are. It was fascinating to watch. Also, they use space above the stage for lights, leaves, pedals, or other features that give you a sense of the seasons or setting.

Gorgeous period costuming by Jessica Ford. Lighting design by Paul Whataker. Sound designer/composer is Matthew M. Nielson. Something I’ve noticed about Lauren Gunderson’s plays is the use of music. It draws me into the story in a deeper way with well-chosen melodies and songs. Of course, it’s pivotal for Beth’s character, but it enhances other scenes and characters, too. All the elements worked beautifully together to create this stunning show.

You can see Little Women, new stage adaptation by Laurne Gunderson, directed by Jackson Gay at the Guthrie Theater through June 21, 2026. For those of you who know the story well, I think you will enjoy this new adaptation that includes bits of the author’s life. And, for those who have never seen it, this will be a lovely introduction to a classic story that lifts up women, sisterhood, strength, and independence.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Do you know the story of Little Women? Do you identify with any of the characters? Write about a moment of feeling empowered by something you’ve experienced.