by Louella Moreland

Kings Players is presenting Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women on the Temple Theatre stage this summer. The play, dramatized by Don L. Swartz, is one of the many adaptations of the timeless and enduring classic about the March sisters’ journey from childhood to maturity during the American Civil War.

Audiences of all generations will enjoy acquainting, or reacquainting, themselves with the March sisters. Meg, the eldest, kind and mature for her age is played by Regine Rainey. Kylee Robinson delights as Jo, the high-spirited tomboy, whose lively spirit and drive to succeed is balanced by a warm and loving heart. Gentle Beth, whose short life touches the soul, is portrayed by Kenzie McCullough. Lorelai Kline plays young Amy, the rather self-centered, spoiled the beauty of the March family in the first act, while Berri Gilbert plays a more mature Amy in the second act.

The March girls in “Little Women”

While Father is absent during the war, their beloved Marmee, portrayed by Rebecca Jensen, dispenses advice with wisdom and love, keeping the family strong. The rather crotchety and wealthy Aunt March is played by Jeanne Ball, who graced the Kings Players stage earlier this year in Too Soon for Daisies. Eden Brock plays the March’s housekeeper, Hannah, part servant, part family.

Rounding out the cast are three dedicated male actors undaunted by the strong females. Stephen Dexheimer plays Theodore (Laurie) Laurence the next door neighbor who wants so desperately to be a part of the March family that he falls in love with all four girls at one time or another. His tutor Mr. Brooke played by Stephan DesJardins, courts and marries Meg. Finishing out the cast is Hugh Neely as Professor Bhaer, the German gentleman Jo meets in New York who encourages her to change her focus from writing sensational stories to write about what is near to her heart.

The play runs July 27, 28 and August 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19. Friday and Saturday show times are 7:30, Sunday matinees start at 2:00. Temple Theatre is located at 514 E. Visalia Street, Hanford, CA. Tickets are available at www.kingsplayers.net or you may call 559-582-7241 for reservations. Seating is limited so book tickets early. Little Women is produced by special arrangement with Eldridge Publishing Company.

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