Trinity Hall's Queen's Court Company (QCC) is preparing to astound audiences with their upcoming production of “Little Women,” based on Louisa May Alcott’s beloved novel. The play, which will run from November 21 through November 23, is led by director Ellen Phillips, who holds a special regard for this adaptation. “Many students have asked me again and again if we could perform this lovely story,” shares Phillips. “The incredible movie Greta Gerwig adapted and directed is one of my favorite films. I have always told my students that when I find a script that comes close to that movie, I will do it. That time is now, and I am so excited!”
This adaptation by Kate Hamill captures the spirit of the original work, exploring themes of love, family, friendship and the meaning of true happiness. The story follows the four March sisters Jo, Meg, Beth and Amy as they transition from childhood to adulthood during the American Civil War. Each sister’s struggles, ambition and relationships are explored throughout the play, along with the challenges of societal expectations for women in the 19th century. According to Delaney Corrigan ‘26, who brings the character of Marmie to life on stage, “This truly is a timeless story. Even though it was written and takes place back in 1868, many of the messages about family and staying true to yourself still apply today.”
An impressive crew of talented students has been working diligently to bring this classic story to life on stage. Maggie Havens ‘26, co-head of the Crowning Crew, has been leading students in the creation of timely costume pieces. Havens, along with crew members, researched the film, studied the time period and analyzed color schemes in order to accurately portray various classes within the production. Prior to selecting fabrics from a local warehouse, Havens studied character personalities in order to get inspiration for each person’s costume, while working closely with actors to ensure designs are authentic representations of characters being brought to life.
Meanwhile, the sets crew, led by senior Scarlett Ferranti ‘25, has been working hard to transform the stage into the March family home, including a sitting room, multiple bedrooms, an office and more. The process of researching set pieces from the time period, to sketching set designs, to working on multiple projects at once, has been a collaborative and intricate process, and the crew’s hard work and dedication have proven to be an integral component of the student-led team.
Kate Schweikert ‘26, who plays the role of Beth March and serves as choreographer, details why audiences should look forward to this particular production. “This story is so special because it is such a classic and yet stands the test of time. “Little Women” was written in the 1860s, but it has applied to every woman, girl, and family throughout time. Everyone can see themselves as one of the March women. That’s what makes this story so special; the fact that it still matters just as much today as it did when it was written. It is important for people to see this show because they will connect with it, and they will feel something. And that’s really the powerful thing about art — it makes us feel connected to the world around us.”
“Little Women” will take the stage on Thursday, November 21 and Friday, November 22 at 7:30 p.m., and Saturday, November 23 at 2:30 p.m. at Brookdale Community College Performing Arts Center. Ticket reservations for all performances are available here.