Brookfield Residents Among Cast and Crew of “Little Women”

In “Little Women” the Broadway musical, one of the most beloved tales in American literature soars to the stage with its familiar characters, touching story and memorable score.

Acacia Theatre Company will present the adaptation of the Louisa May Alcott classic July 10-19 in Concordia University Wisconsin’s Todd Wehr Auditorium, 12800 North Lake Shore Drive in Mequon, Wis. Among the cast and crew will be Brookfield, Wis. residents Filippo Carini, Danette Buikema, Michael D. DeLong and Lauren Carini.

The remarkable March women – Meg, Jo, Beth, Amy and Marmee – come to life in this semi-autobiographical story about growing up in New England during the Civil War. With book by Allan Knee, music by Jason Howland and lyrics by Mindi Dickstein, it is a timeless tale of the power of family, friendship and romance.

Buikema will play Marmee. Filippo Carini will play Professor Bhaer. DeLong will play Mr. Lawrence. Lauren Carini is the assistant stage manager and properties mistress.

From its 2005 staging on Broadway to its subsequent national tour, this family-friendly telling of the classic novel has captured the hearts of young and old.

“It’s a beautiful story about the love of family,” said Acacia’s Artistic Director Janet Bouman Peterson, who is directing the production. “You see the Marches go through their little fights, through death, war, love and all that goes with those things. You experience the special bond that brings them even more joy during the good times and sees them through heartbreak and new challenges. That’s why it’s such a popular story.”

The powerful score – from Jo’s sing-your-heart out anthem “Astonishing” to Marmee’s stirring “Days of Plenty” – is the type of traditional Broadway fare that has the audience leaving the theatre humming.

Performances will be given at 8 p.m. on July 10, 8 p.m. on July 11, 3 p.m. on July 12, 8 p.m. on July 16, 8 p.m. on July 17, 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. on July 18 and 3 p.m. on July 19.

Tickets cost $15, or $13 for senior citizens, full-time clergy and full-time students. Tickets may be purchased by calling (414) 744-5995 or visiting www.acaciatheatre.com.

Founded in 1980, Acacia Theatre Company is an independent, non-profit, interdenominational group of dramatic artists who share a common desire to integrate art and faith by presenting theatre from a Judeo-Christian worldview. Through uplifting, quality entertainment, Acacia provides occasion for thanksgiving, growth and enjoyment, and the opportunity for Christians and non-Christians to consider their lives in relation to God. More information is available at www.acaciatheatre.com.