Jo - The Little Women Musical

Theatre Royal Drury Lane - New Musical Concert (One night only)

London witnessed the bones of an enchanting new musical. Christine Allado was the perfect vessel to introduce the charming Jo March. The star-studded cast delivered quite a show.

Back in May, we had the exciting release of the 'Jo The Little Women Musical' on listening platforms. Since then, this new musical has been making noise, flooding social media and stealing hearts. Last night, for just the one night, a London audience was lucky to witness the world premiere concert of Jo, The Little Women Musical. Since then, I haven't stopped thinking about the emotions this show made me experience. It grasped my heart and nourished it with musical theatre goodness.

If you haven't heard of this show yet, and if you're a theatre lover, then I'm surprised you haven't heard anything yet. This show places a spotlight on the character 'Jo March' from the Louisa May Alcott novel 'Little Women'. We follow her journey, fall in love with her and her family. Now... I've been living under a rock, as this review is coming from a person who has NOT read Little Women... I know CRAZY. However, this keeps the story's charm and appeal burning bright, because now all I want to do is read the book, watch the film adaptations, and fill my brain with all things Little Women. It is incredible how much love and care have gone into this musical; the score is playful, the characters have their own relatable qualities, and the story keeps you locked into the moment. Once you entered the doors of the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, it felt as though we were escorted back in time; the excitement filled the building, and it was well-received. Dan Redfeld carefully crafted the music, and the music and lyrics are also delicately constructed by Christina Harding and John Gabriel Koladziej. Considering it was a concert that was put on its feet so quickly, it's incredible how much impact it has made.

Photo by: Roger Alacorn

Each cast member brought this show to life and offered a variety of qualities. The characters are so set apart that each audience member can relate to one of them, if not more than one. As soon as each actor took the stage, they embodied their character and grabbed the hearts of the audience. Christine Allado as Jo March teaches her audience to stay true to who they are and follow the paths that bring them joy. She was a brilliant casting choice to display Jo's empowering and colourful female character. In contrast, Kelly Mathieson works so well with Allado; their voices create this incredible mixture and show a different kind of female power. Mathieson shows a young lady who is driven by her heart and a maternal, strong spirit. Her voice shows a gentle and elegant quality. She shows off her incredible ability to hit some sparkly high notes. Tobias Turley, as 'Laurie', brings a playful quality, and his kooky character brings out the fun qualities of the March sisters. The whole cast creates a strong, warm, and family-led group of characters. This is the most wholesome musical you will see and is great for the whole family. I could discuss these characters for ages and ages, so many incredible acting and writing choices. Well directed by JoAnn M Hunter. We cannot forget to mention our craziest and funniest character, who makes the audience chuckle as soon as she enters the stage, Aunt March, played by Tracie Bennett. What a character.

It is fantastic and an honour to have witnessed the beginning of this musical. It is going to go far because so much love and passion have gone into it. This show has brought back a classical style of musical, and it sets itself apart from other new musicals because of this. It makes you escape the world we are in now and enter a world of imagination. It is a tranquil escape. Being able to sit at the end and hear the orchestra playing sections of the music as everyone was leaving, keeping that mood high until the moment you leave the theatre. Every single second was well planned and crafted. There were technical difficulties, but they were minor. They didn't take you away from this beautiful, musical world. I can't believe it was only one night. I wish I could go again and see more. But, alas, I'm sure it'll be back to steal more hearts. What a welcome! Jo March, London must have you back for more soon.

Just imagine what a full production would be like! Theatre Royal Drury Lane is the perfect home for this style...

Photo by: Roger Alacorn