Chesil Theatre, Winchester Meg, Josephine, Amy and Beth are the little women with vastly different personalities who, together with their mother, keep the home fires burning while their preacher father serves with the Union Army during the American Civil War.

Grace Durber was outstanding as the manipulative, artistic beauty, Amy, sharing a credible chemistry with Michael Leckie (who was charming and playful as neighbour Laurie), while Charlie Hellard (Meg’s gentle suitor) was subtly alluring.

With mixed levels of acting experience among the cast, the cohesive, slick pace was commendable, although would have benefitted from more dynamics at times.

This stage adaptation was enhanced by creative staging on different physical levels, excellent sound effects (including specially recorded beautiful a cappella singing) and atmospheric lighting.

Anne Waggott