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Wheaton Drama's 'Little Women' basks in warm glow of family

Times were tough for the four sisters of the March family. Money was tight, and the girls did what they could to help their mom while their dad served as a parson in the Union Army.

“Little Women” tells the story of the four sisters Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy and the childhood experiences that shape them. The classic novel by Louisa May Alcott delves into issues of feminism and morality, yet remains warm, loving and touching.

Wheaton Drama's production of the story brings the family feelings to stage.

As the cast and crew prepare to open the show at 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 19, for a run that continues through Sunday, Dec. 12, Director Larry Boller shares his thoughts about the play adapted by Marian De Forest from Alcott's novel:

"Had enough of cynicism and caustic wit? Hungry for a warm smile, for a loving family, for an old-fashioned courtship?Wheaton Drama's latest, the classic #8220;Little Women,#8221; may be just your cup of tea.As adapted for the stage, #8220;Little Women#8221; originates in the March home during the Civil War. Louisa May Alcott's immortal tomboy Jo and her three sisters wait for their mother to return from her work at the hospital. It is Christmas, and the March girls expect little under the tree this year except perhaps a letter from their father, who has volunteered his services as a parson for the military.Despite the melancholy nature of one touching scene, this show is very light and sunny. It deserves, and has earned in its multiple screen presentations, a PG rating. Bring the children, glory in the period gowns, the airy romances and the happy endings.If you love Frank Capra and characters ready to be embraced, this show is for you. As Jo grows up, gains respect as a writer and falls in love when she least expects to do so, be prepared to care for her and her wonderful family.Wheaton Drama's long-standing tradition of offering affordable family entertainment in the Western suburbs continues with Little Women."

Daniel Scobey, left, as Professor Bhaer talks with Jo, played by Traci A. Cidlik, along with Chris Milburn as Laurie, Kelly Lamich as Amy, Jonas Davidow as John Brooke, and Melissa Rosenberg as Meg in “Little Women.” Courtesy of Steven Merkel
Chris Milburn as Laurie, left, Zach Gibson as Mr. March, and Nicole Wilson as Beth in Wheaton Drama’s production of “Little Women.” The stage adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s novel opens Friday, Nov. 19, at Playhouse 111 in Wheaton. Courtesy of Steven Merkel
Director Larry Boller

If you go

<p>What: “Little Women,” staged by Wheaton Drama</p>

<p>When: 8 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and 3 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 19 to Dec. 12; no show on Thanksgiving, Nov. 25</p>

<p>Where: Playhouse 111, 111 N. Hale St., Wheaton</p>

<p>Tickets: $16; $13 Thursdays</p>

<p>Info: (630) 260-1820 or wheatondrama.org</p>