‘Little Women’ brings to life the story of family, love and loss

Riverside, Calif. (March 25, 2025) – The 2024-25 theatre season at California Baptist University will close this April with the musical "Little Women."  

Based on the author Louisa May Alcott’s life, the fictional play follows the lives of four sisters: Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy. The girls struggle as a family as they have to work hard and make sacrifices while their dad serves in the Civil War.  

Stacee Willis, adjunct professor of theatre and director of the play, said that casting “Little Women” was a delicate balance of honoring the beloved characters while allowing actors to bring their unique interpretations to the roles. 

"I cast actors who could tell the story in a way that feels real and grounded, rooted in truth, allowing the audience to truly connect with these characters as living, breathing people portraying genuine, heartfelt relationships on stage," she said. 

Willis said that, like any adaptation, the musical version of “Little Women” condenses and reimagines aspects of the novel to fit the structure of a theatrical production. 

"While some events and relationships are slightly adjusted for dramatic effect, the heart of ‘Little Women’ — the themes of family, ambition, love and loss — remains as powerful and timeless as ever," she said.  

A live orchestra will perform, adding depth and richness to the production, Willis said. 

"I wanted the [orchestra] to be integrated into the show in some way, so that not only the actors but our audience could appreciate their talents," she said. 

Rachel D. Rogstad, a theatre and music freshman, plays Beth, the third daughter. 

"I have learned so much about the incredible power of sisterhood, whether blood related or not," Rogstad said. "I have also learned a lot about trusting myself and my impulses when working on stage." 

Working with the cast was the most enjoyable part of the experience for Rogstad. 

"I hope the audience is inspired by this story of resilience and hope in the face of struggle," Rogstad said. "I hope especially the little girls in the audience see all these women who are each strong in their own ways and, through that, know that they can do anything." 

Brooke Maurer, a theatre major, said that she learned through her role of Aunt March that people may have the right intention but are oftentimes misunderstood. 

"Aunt March is often seen as the ‘mean, rich aunt,’ and although it may be true on the outside, I have been able to find a lot of truth within her and realize that her intentions were never bad. She just has a different way of showing love than most," Maurer said. 

Her favorite song from the show was “Some Things Are Meant to Be,” which is sung by Beth and Jo.  

"I have a little sister, so this piece makes me tear up every time because I know the sister bond firsthand," she said.  

She hopes that the audience understands the importance of change and that life may not always go according to plan.

"This story shows such beautiful growth from all of the characters, knowing that life didn't end up how they all believed, but they were able to understand that change is inevitable," Maurer said. "Although life may not go to plan, every moment is a gift from God." 

“Little Women” 
When: 7 p.m. April 4-5 and April 11-12; 2 p.m. April 5 and April 12-13  
Where: Wallace Theatre, California Baptist University, 8432 Magnolia Ave., Riverside, CA, 92504 
For tickets or more information, please click here.