A Star is Born

By David Stephens HOMETOWN NEWS Louisa May Alcott's classic work of literature, Little Women, tells the story of The Marches, a family used to hard toil and suffering. While Father March is away with the Union Army, Marmee March tends to her four daughters Meg, Jo, Amy, and Beth as they live through good times and bad. Even while pledging to remain together for their entire lives, the sisters learn that life's circumstances will alter even the best - laid plans. During a four - day run from April 24 - 27, Little Women came to life at Chesnee High School and a star was born. Miranda Gilbert, a 16 - year - old sophomore in the lead role of Jo March, was absolutely dazzling as her singing talent and acting ability took audience members through a whole gamut of emotions from laughter to at times being on the verge of tears. A particular highlight of the play was the duet of Gilbert and Buddy Messer as Professor Bhaer performing the closing musical number of "Small Umbrella in the Rain." Gilbert's performance, supported by the superb singing talent of Stevi Watson and Ryann Willard, along with a first - rate cast, crew, and orchestra had the audience on their feet in a standing ovation at the play's performance end. Contributing to the show's success as well was the innovative multi-tiered set design and the authentic period costumes worn by the performers. After the show Miranda Gilbert quickly diverted any attention from her to others. She said, "I feel really good about the show, but everyone on the crew and cast did their best. Without them and that effort, none of this happens." Director Kim Willard said of the show, "This play looks deceptively simple, but trust me, it is not. Everyone involved from the cast and crew to the orchestra went above and beyond to make this a positive show. Our kids are not content to be just successful or satisfied; they want to be astonishing and inspiring."