PRESS CONTACT:
Elizabeth Sauter
Promotions & Engagement Committee
Riverwalk Theatre
(616) 834-4821
[email protected]
Riverwalk Theatre Presents Little Women—A Bold New Adaptation of a Classic
Lansing, MI — Riverwalk Theatre’s season continues with Little Women, a modern and dynamic retelling of Louisa May Alcott’s beloved novel. Directed by Mary Job, this version, adapted by Kate Hamill, offers a fresh look at the March sisters as they navigate growing up, ambition, and family dynamics in the midst of the Civil War. With its exploration of gender identity and self-discovery, this production challenges traditional narratives while honoring the timeless spirit of the original story.
Synopsis: Jo March, the headstrong and ambitious protagonist, struggles to find her place in a world that offers few opportunities for women like her. As the Civil War rages on, Jo and her three sisters must navigate the complexities of growing up, dealing with family tensions, and defining what it means to be a woman in a restrictive society. This adaptation highlights Jo’s internal conflict—not only resisting the societal pressures placed on women but also questioning her own gender identity as she pursues her dreams of becoming a great writer.
Director Mary Job explains, “This production is about growth—personal evolution, not just growing up. The characters explore who they are and who they want to become.” Job’s version of Little Women focuses on the emotional costs of being different and how each sister’s individual path to womanhood carries unique struggles, making it a call to women everywhere to challenge the constraints of society and be bold enough to live their truth.”
The cast features an ensemble of talented actors, with particular attention given to the March sisters’ natural sibling chemistry; Job praises the authenticity with which the actresses portray the March sisters. “The bond between these actresses is so organic. You really feel like they’ve grown up together.”
The creative team includes scenic designer Jeff Miller, costume designer Lark Burger, lighting designer Code Skalmowski, and sound designer Nathan Tykocki. “It’s been a wonderful collaboration,” Job says. “Each person has contributed to the vision, making this production something truly special.”
Anna Hill, who plays Jo March, adds, “Jo is determined to take control of her destiny, no matter what the world tells her she should be. This is a story of growth, of change, and of family — it's been incredible to bring that to life on stage.”
And to paraphrase Heath Sartorius, who plays Theodore “Laurie” Laurence, this show stays true to the novel with fresh twists for a little something for everyone.
In the spirit of the March family's generosity in Little Women, we are coming together to give back to our community. Though the March family may not have had much, they always found ways to share what they could, and we are inspired to do the same. We invite you to join us in making a difference by donating non-perishable food and personal essentials to support our neighbors in need.
From now through the run of Little Women, Riverwalk Theatre will be collecting donations for the Greater Lansing Food Bank. You can drop off items when attending a performance, during rehearsals or meetings, or simply visit us during our regular business hours because together, these small acts of kindness can make a big difference, helping to lighten the load for those who need it most.
Cast List:
• Jo March – Anna Hill
• Meg March – Maria Berry
• Beth March – Storm Hawthorne
• Amy March – Rachael Steffens
• Marmee – Betsy Karinen
• Laurie Laurence – Heath Sartorius
• Hannah/Mrs. Mingott – Joyce Kramer-Cox
• Aunt March – Sandra Thomasson
• John Brooks/Mr. Dashwood – Ndegwa McCloud
• Mr. Lawrence/Mr. March/Doctor – Mike Sobocinski
• Messenger – Tara Corbin
Director: Mary Job
Tickets:
$20 Adult
$15 Senior/Student/Military
$10 Child (under 12 years)
Show Dates:
• Thursday, November 6 & 13 @ 7:00 p.m.
• Friday, November 7 & 14 & Saturday, November 8 & 15 @ 8:00 p.m.
• Sunday, November 9 & 16 @ 2:00 p.m.
You may make a reservation by purchasing tickets online https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=288585,
in person at the Riverwalk Theatre Box Office, Box office hours are 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.
Or by calling Riverwalk Theatre at (517) 482- 5700.
Elizabeth Sauter
Promotions & Engagement Committee
Riverwalk Theatre
(616) 834-4821
[email protected]
Riverwalk Theatre Presents Little Women—A Bold New Adaptation of a Classic
Lansing, MI — Riverwalk Theatre’s season continues with Little Women, a modern and dynamic retelling of Louisa May Alcott’s beloved novel. Directed by Mary Job, this version, adapted by Kate Hamill, offers a fresh look at the March sisters as they navigate growing up, ambition, and family dynamics in the midst of the Civil War. With its exploration of gender identity and self-discovery, this production challenges traditional narratives while honoring the timeless spirit of the original story.
Synopsis: Jo March, the headstrong and ambitious protagonist, struggles to find her place in a world that offers few opportunities for women like her. As the Civil War rages on, Jo and her three sisters must navigate the complexities of growing up, dealing with family tensions, and defining what it means to be a woman in a restrictive society. This adaptation highlights Jo’s internal conflict—not only resisting the societal pressures placed on women but also questioning her own gender identity as she pursues her dreams of becoming a great writer.
Director Mary Job explains, “This production is about growth—personal evolution, not just growing up. The characters explore who they are and who they want to become.” Job’s version of Little Women focuses on the emotional costs of being different and how each sister’s individual path to womanhood carries unique struggles, making it a call to women everywhere to challenge the constraints of society and be bold enough to live their truth.”
The cast features an ensemble of talented actors, with particular attention given to the March sisters’ natural sibling chemistry; Job praises the authenticity with which the actresses portray the March sisters. “The bond between these actresses is so organic. You really feel like they’ve grown up together.”
The creative team includes scenic designer Jeff Miller, costume designer Lark Burger, lighting designer Code Skalmowski, and sound designer Nathan Tykocki. “It’s been a wonderful collaboration,” Job says. “Each person has contributed to the vision, making this production something truly special.”
Anna Hill, who plays Jo March, adds, “Jo is determined to take control of her destiny, no matter what the world tells her she should be. This is a story of growth, of change, and of family — it's been incredible to bring that to life on stage.”
And to paraphrase Heath Sartorius, who plays Theodore “Laurie” Laurence, this show stays true to the novel with fresh twists for a little something for everyone.
In the spirit of the March family's generosity in Little Women, we are coming together to give back to our community. Though the March family may not have had much, they always found ways to share what they could, and we are inspired to do the same. We invite you to join us in making a difference by donating non-perishable food and personal essentials to support our neighbors in need.
From now through the run of Little Women, Riverwalk Theatre will be collecting donations for the Greater Lansing Food Bank. You can drop off items when attending a performance, during rehearsals or meetings, or simply visit us during our regular business hours because together, these small acts of kindness can make a big difference, helping to lighten the load for those who need it most.
Cast List:
• Jo March – Anna Hill
• Meg March – Maria Berry
• Beth March – Storm Hawthorne
• Amy March – Rachael Steffens
• Marmee – Betsy Karinen
• Laurie Laurence – Heath Sartorius
• Hannah/Mrs. Mingott – Joyce Kramer-Cox
• Aunt March – Sandra Thomasson
• John Brooks/Mr. Dashwood – Ndegwa McCloud
• Mr. Lawrence/Mr. March/Doctor – Mike Sobocinski
• Messenger – Tara Corbin
Director: Mary Job
Tickets:
$20 Adult
$15 Senior/Student/Military
$10 Child (under 12 years)
Show Dates:
• Thursday, November 6 & 13 @ 7:00 p.m.
• Friday, November 7 & 14 & Saturday, November 8 & 15 @ 8:00 p.m.
• Sunday, November 9 & 16 @ 2:00 p.m.
You may make a reservation by purchasing tickets online https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=288585,
in person at the Riverwalk Theatre Box Office, Box office hours are 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.
Or by calling Riverwalk Theatre at (517) 482- 5700.
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