The Northwest Catholic Dramateurs will present ‘Little Women’ on stage in West Hartford.

Senior Sophia Cote as Jo. Courtesy photo

Submitted by Bryan Cote

A talented cast of local high schoolers from Northwest Catholic will perform the beloved musical classic “Little Women” at the end of the month. Five seniors will be making their final bows on the Mortensen Stage.

The classic story of the March sisters – directed by Martin Marchitto, musically directed by Daniel Avery and choreographed by Northwest senior Faith Saunders – will be sure to entertain audiences of all ages.

“I love Jo’s character,” said senior Sophia Cote, who plays Jo March. “She’s ambitious, has a quick temper and dreams to go out into the world. Her character inspires me as I graduate from Northwest and try to find my way in the world.”

Senior Sophia Cote A(left) and senior Shannon McNally. Elizabeth Saylor designed their costumes. Courtesy photo

Drama club co-captains, seniors Brady Ladouceur and Shannon McNally, were comedic gold as Cinderella’s sisters in last year’s NWC production, and this year play very different roles – Ladouceur as the beloved March mother, Marmee, and McNally as Aunt March.

Ladouceur said it’s exciting to play a totally different role from last year. “Marmee is a tough but loving mother and a resilient woman. I have taken inspiration from all the amazing motherly figures in my life, and it’s an honor to bring Marmee’s story to life.”

“I could not be more excited to play such a fun character alongside so many talented, lovely people. It’s so special,” said McNally.

Senior Alec Corrado, who is also a drama club co-captain, plays Professor Bhaer after playing the King in Cinderella last year. His character is supposed to be 15 years older than Jo, so Corrado grew a beard for the role. “The professor’s character is one that I’m really glad I have the chance to embody. It’s a role I connect with and understand.”

As for graduating, Corrado said, “Theatre has been one of the biggest parts of my high school experience. I’m sad it’s coming to an end, but forever grateful for the experiences it has given me.”

Senior Alec Corrado (left), senior Sophia Cote. All costumes were designed by Elizabeth Saylor. Courtesy photo

Patrick Hydeck, a junior, plays Theodore Laurence, or “Laurie,” and Collin Molloy, also a junior, plays the quiet and reserved Mr. Brooke.

The story and music of “Little Women” invites to you to figure out which sister you relate to. Are you big-sister Meg played by sophomore Emma Harrison, kind-hearted Beth played by freshman Mia Tonon, self-centered Amy played by freshman Chloe Dismukes, or Cote’s character, aspiring writer Jo March.

“The cast and crew have worked so hard on this – I’m very proud of them,” said Marchitto. “The show is really coming together. We have so many talented performers. It’s going to be beautiful.”

At the show be prepared for lots of excitement and laughs, and also time twists. It opens with an adult Jo directing her Operatic Tragedy then quickly moves back in time when the sisters were younger and rehearsing a play in their attic. The show’s signature song, Astonishing, closes the first act.

More than 50 students on stage and behind the scenes are bringing this show to life. Work on the elaborate set began in January when students and parents came to “workdays” at the school. 

Costume and wig designs are by Elizabeth Saylor who has worked on previous Northwest Catholic shows. 

Show dates are Thursday March 30, Friday March 31, and Saturday April 1 – all at 7 p.m. – and a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday April 2. Tickets can be purchased online by clicking here.

The complete list of cast and crew is also available online.

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