Women

 
Hannah Churchill

Most of us know the vignettes that make up Little Women.
Amy’s pickled limes. Jo’s selling her hair. Meg’s love of the Ball and Beth’s piano.
The stories are almost as real as those in our own families, especially if you grew up with siblings.
Last night I went to see a one woman show in Theatre Clwyd where actress Hannah Churchill reenacted most of the novel as Jo, hiding away in the attic after Beth’s death. Here she writes her book in her head, playing each sister in turn, only supported by a quiet Laurie, who plays an accompaniment on Beth’s piano

Churchill’s jumping from one character from another works best when Amy and Jo are portrayed which is unsurprising given their powerful personalities. Meg, Beth and Marmie are slightly less successful , but only slightly, as at times the play becomes incredibly moving. (Beth’s illness) and even exciting ( Amy falling through the Ice)
It’s a hard gig really as we all know the story and bringing a fresh look at it must be hard.
So hats off to Hannah Churchill who did a very good job of carrying the story.

I’ve broken the back of my assignment and will finish that today. This afternoon I’m going to the hall to sort out the noticeboards for the open day on Saturday.

22 comments:

  1. I haven't read Little Women since I was one! (Although I'm still little, just a lot older.🧓) I must revisit it.
    Good on you for getting that assignment sorted. A model pupil, indeed! I hope the weather improves for Saturday and that there are crowds of people in attendance. xx

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    1. Anonymous7:01 pm

      Definitely reread it, you get so much more from it as an adult. I like the follow on books too… Karen S

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    2. Or at least see the films or one of them

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  2. Sounds good! I loved "Little Women" when I was a girl.

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    1. Was joba tomboy or was she gender fluid

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  3. As a girl, I adored "Little Women." HC's performance as a one woman show takes real talent. Having your paper nearly completed must feel great.

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    1. It does, I will finish tomorrow . Saturday I’m cooking a barrel load of chillie

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  4. What a job. And what role do you play, Hannah. “Oh, just the one: Megjobethamy.” Congrats (I think) on breaking the back of the assignment.

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    1. She played aunt March , marmie and even Laurie in one moment

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  5. That sounds incredibly challenging! I loved all the Louisa May Alcott books when I was young.
    Elizabeth

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    1. I only know it from the four films ….

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  6. Barbara Anne4:19 pm

    Hannah Chruchill must be a brave actress! I'm so glad you went to see the play and enjoyed it so much. Count me in with those who loved Little Women when I was growing up - and I always cried when Beth died.
    My favorite book from childhood is still The SeDecret Garden"

    Hugs!

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    1. It was claire Danes as beth receiving Her piano that finished me off

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  7. Do you know I can never recall reading Little Women...and I have always been a voracious reader until recently where I cannot seem to become engaged. I might have to look it up. Well done on the study... I am not a self starter and need back up so I admire someone who is. Hope the weather is a great for the weekend.

    Jo in Auckland

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    1. I need to kick myself up the arse where study is involved

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  8. Hope you have a monster turnout for the opening!
    I read Little Women ..maybe I was 55. I think the one woman show would be intriguing.

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    1. I hope a few new faces will turn up …I’ve bought enough chilli ingredients to feed half the village

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  9. You know, I've NEVER read that book. I guess I always thought it was a "girl book" so I never went there when I was young. I really should read it now.

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  10. weaverr7:18 pm

    Just to let you know I am back in the land of the living again!

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    1. Thank goodness….you’ll go on a while longer yet old gal xx

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  11. I started to read it but got distracted - I think the weather may be nice Saturday - could be a light shower - perhaps shorts and wellies and a posy x 🌻

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