The March sisters are as close as sisters can be, but as they grow up, their relationships begin to change. Jo, the second child, is very reluctant to this change as she wants them all to remain as close as possible all their lives. When Meg, the eldest sister, beings to be courted by a local man, John Brooke, Jo is very upset that Meg would betray her by leaving the family for a husband. Even though Meg assures Jo that she will always love her, Jo is deeply hurt by Meg’s falling in love. Laurie, the March’s neighbor, and Jo’s closest friend, has always been Jo’s confidant, however as he grows older it is clear that his feelings for her have grown romantically. Laurie confesses his love to Jo and asks her to marry him. Jo cannot even comprehend the idea of marrying someone and leaving her family behind, and she rejects his proposal. Laurie, dejected, leaves her and Jo thinks that, in time, he will forget his feelings for her and their friendship will return to the way it was. As she grows up, her ideas of love and life slowly change and we wonder if she ever accept the love of someone outside her family? This wonderful tale of family love, growing older, and being an independent woman has been a classic from its inception in 1868. Mark Adamo’s luscious arias brings a musical poignancy to Louisa May Alcott’s story that is touching, and his unsettling music brings Jo's struggles with the changing world to life and keeps the audience wondering if she will ever change her mind.
Little Women guide sections
