Production Review: Just Little Women

Last time I did a review, I was hoping that the trend of seeing stuff on it's closing night wouldn't stick. It seems that my fears were well founded as I also saw this on it's closing night. But it won't be the last chance you have to see the show. More on that in a bit.

Before we get into things, I must disclose that I do know some members of the production personally. Indeed, if you stay tuned to Hazbin on Broadway, you may see them around. But I would hope that if you read my blog, you know me well enough that I don't say what I don't mean.

If the title looks familiar, it should! This musical was based, in part, on Louisa May Alcott's famous book Little Women. Here, though, I also must confess that I've never actually read the underlying work (I'm horribly underread as a poet, but it is what it is).

All set? To the review!

Pictured: The poster for the production I'm talking about. Should be obvious from the context but yet here we are.

Just Little Women is a coming-of-age tale of four Staten Island sisters in a rock band. We begin just before a turning point in the band's success at a holiday party and also meet some of the sisters' neighbors who will become a found family. This is all of the plot I want to discuss, as I don't want to spoil the production. While I saw this on its closing night, Space Cowgirl Productions has noted that this is only the beginning of this show's run and that a cast recording is also forthcoming. So, if you want to figure out where the rest of the plot goes, you'll have to see it yourself!

But I think I can talk about some of the themes that Just Little Women brings up without spoiling the plot. To start, the the show heavily explores intra-sibling relationships and how they can be both messy yet full of love. The sisters constantly have difficulties that resonate with anyone with siblings will be sure to understand. Indeed, the show inspired me to call my sibling and make sure to let them know that, though we have our differences, I do still love them.

Pictured: Party on!

Another theme that comes up is the importance of found family and how the bonds we choose to form often become just as important and consequential as the ones we are born into. As we move into a season dedicated to giving thanks, I know that I'm thankful of the found family that I'm surrounded by. I truly don't know where I'd be without them.

Overall, Just Little Women is a powerhouse of emotion and nuanced storytelling. If you get the chance, you should definitely see it. You'll be happy you did.

Pictured: Take a bow! You deserve it.