In an era when divisiveness often dominates headlines, East Tennessee State University’s Department of Theatre and Dance is staging a story that focuses on kindness, charity, family and duty.

“This play in particular, and ‘Little Women’ the book, I like to think of each chapter as little morality stories,” said Melissa Shafer, director of ETSU’s production that opens Oct. 23. “It’s about kindness. It’s about charity. It’s about family and duty. Those things are important for us to focus on in this day and age.”

Kate Hamill’s adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s beloved novel brings the March sisters’ journey to vivid theatrical life, following Jo, Meg, Beth and Amy as they navigate growing up, pursuing dreams and staying true to themselves and each other.

An emotional journey

For Natalie Underwood, who plays the headstrong Jo March, the role has been an emotional rollercoaster.

“You have grief, you have loss, you have love and you have friendships,” Underwood said. “It covers all the emotions.”

But beyond the emotional depth, Underwood sees contemporary relevance in this 19th-century tale.

“It’s a classic so things have definitely changed since it was originally published,” she said. “But I hope people realize that it is still relevant today. It’s one of those timeless tales about different roles for women.”

A labor of love

For stage manager Emily Jarrett, working on “Little Women” has been both challenging and deeply personal. It’s her first time in the role, and she’s learning valuable skills while bringing to life a story that shaped her childhood.

“It was my favorite book growing up,” Jarrett said. “It’s a lovely story, and I hope people see that.”

Shafer echoed that sentiment: “It’s a heartwarming story and we have got really talented students.”

Experience it yourself

The production runs Oct. 23-26 at the Martin Center for the Arts’ Bert C. Bach Theatre, offering audiences an intimate theatrical experience that brings the March family’s world to life. Purchase tickets through the Martin Center.  

The Department of Theatre and Dance is part of the Mary B. Martin School of the Arts, an incredible hub for cultural activity.  Learn about the many ways in which life in the region is so rich at etsu.edu/our-region.