Sinclair’s Theatre Department presents Louisa May Alcott’s “Little Women”

Tick, tick, tick.

The sound of a clock offered a reminder that time never stops, carrying childhood into adulthood and ordinary moments into treasured memories.

In Sinclair’s Black Box Theatre, this recurring theme helped shape the experience of Little Women, presented by Sinclair’s Theatre Department from Oct. 9 to 17.

**A ‘Little Women’ sign welcoming people as they pass by the theatre.** HANNAH KICHLINE

Upon entering the theatre, audience members encountered dim lighting that cast a soft glow across the room. A painted portrait of the March sisters rested above a fireplace illuminated by a vibrant orange, flickering light. Nearby, a table set for five and a single flower vase on the piano added warmth to the setting. At 7 p.m., the pre-show announcement invited everyone to “settle in and join the March sisters,” welcoming the audience into the family’s world.

Based on Louisa May Alcott’s beloved novel, “Little Women” follows sisters Meg (Allison Byron), Jo (Ryan Ford), Beth (Zella Younce) and Amy March (Alida Ohrman) as they navigated growing up during the Civil War. Each sister had different dreams and ambitions, but their relationships remained the center of the story as they encountered loss, growing up and learning to appreciate what they already had.

“We want so badly we don’t see what we have,” Beth March said.

The story is based on Alcott and her sisters’ coming of age during the Civil War, creating Jo March from her own individuality, rather than an idealized stereotype.

Alida Ohrman, who played Amy March, brought this individuality through her seemingly endless energy, endearing characterization and clear pronunciation. Even when Jo corrected her, Amy’s youthful confidence and stubbornness felt real as her character captured the charm of the youngest sister determined to make herself heard. Amy especially made sure everyone could hear her when Laurie and Jo grew too close for her liking.

Isaiah Autajay’s (Laurie Lawrence) charming presence was immediately apparent, whether he was hiding under a table, engaging in a sword fight with Jo or gathering the courage to propose. Autajay brought warmth and humor to Laurie, making his interactions feel natural.

A picture from a showing of ‘Little Women’ in Pittsburg last year. ONSTAGEPITTSBURG.COM.

The performance had laughter, songs, some not-so-smooth dances and fight scenes that made the audience fall in love with the story and the characters in it.

The supporting performances and theatrical details strengthened the production. Ryan Hester took on five roles, demonstrating versatility across the story. One of these roles included the Parrot puppet that accompanied Aunt March. Complete with a moving beak and wings, the carefully crafted puppet added personality and a touch of theatrical magic.

Full gowns, wigs and moving set pieces established the historical setting, while onstage costume changes kept the audience connected to the unfolding story. The movable set made transitions smooth and practical. Even the piano transformed with a simple interior adjustment.

As the play came to a close, Jo returned to writing. The ticking clock that had accompanied the audience’s journey served as a reminder that time continues moving, even after the curtain falls. The March sisters grew older, their lives changed and moments passed, but Jo’s writing preserved the memories.

Tick, tick, tick.

Time moves on, but stories like “Little Women” will remain forever.

Lisa Pinsenschaum, reporter

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