The 2026 spring musical, Little Women, was performed April 23–25 in the Daren Performing Arts Center. Based on Louisa May Alcott’s semi-autobiographical novel, the musical follows the lives of the four March sisters—traditional Meg, wild and aspiring writer Jo, timid Beth, and romantic Amy—and their beloved mother, Marmee, while their father serves away in the Civil War. As the sisters pursue their personal aspirations, their relationships are tested by both growth and tragedy.
Theater Director Andy Brown ‘14 chose the musical because it offered students the opportunity to engage with classic American literature through a medium they connect with. “As a story of young women finding their way in the world, it felt particularly fitting for a cast of young actresses and actors, and the cast very much found ways to make the story their own,” he said.
The production also gave many newer performers the chance to find their place on stage, regardless of experience or age.
“The role brought out my outgoing, confident side, as I was encouraged to push boundaries and try new things on stage. I wouldn’t have been able to go this far without the support system of the cast and crew, and the motivation of working with such talented actors and actresses. Even though I was the youngest cast member, I felt very included with the rest of the group and was still able to be part of the jokes and fun with the cast. This reflects immensely on the Williams community, for which I am so grateful,” said Zoelle Boor ’30, who played Aunt March.
With a show featuring a wide range of characters, every interaction helps bring the story to life and allows performers to make each role their own.
“My favorite part of the show was getting to have little moments aside from the main focus of the scene, where there are tiny character interactions that bring the story to life, especially with Zara Asim ’26 [Meg March/Clarissa],” said Juliana Ocampo ’29, who played the dual roles of Amy March and Troll.
As with any production, there are many roles behind the scenes that make the performance possible. Crew members work tirelessly to prepare each show, especially given the wide variety of productions Williams stages throughout the year.
“I love the range of shows we’ve had at Williams. From plays to musicals, they all get set up very differently, which gives each show its own individuality. Being able to build a whole set, including the sound and light systems, is really rewarding when it all comes together in the short few months we have between shows,” said Emily Smith ’27, Assistant Stage Manager and Sound Board Operator for the production.
Productions like Little Women reflect the collaborative spirit of the Williams theater program, where students take on a wide range of roles and responsibilities to bring each show to life. From first-time performers finding confidence on stage to experienced crew members refining technical elements behind the scenes, the musical highlighted the creativity, dedication, and shared effort that define performing arts at Williams.
Cast (listed alphabetically):
Zara Asim ‘26 – Meg March/Clarissa
Ace Bairos ‘27 – Mr. John Brooke/Braxton
Zoelle Boor ‘30 – Aunt March
Orchid Burns ‘27 – Mr. Laurence/Knight
Sydney Caplan ‘26 – Jo March/Hag
Eliana Cicchiello ‘29 – Mrs. Kirk
Raymond Dolan ‘28 – Professor Bhaer
Juliana Ocampo ‘29 – Amy March/Troll
Hogan Porter ‘28 – Laurie Laurence/Rodrigo
Nora Simonelli ‘28 – Beth March/Rodrigo 2
Sadie Susskind ‘26 – Marmee March
Production Crew:
Director: Mr. Andrew Brown ‘14
Music Director: Mr. Jeff Cregeur
Choreographer: Ms. Bo Parish
Stage Manager & Light Board: Sophia Behm ‘27
Assistant Stage Manager & Sound Board: Emily Smith ‘27
Run Crew: Thomas Carpenter ‘27, Paul Petersen ‘27
Lights & Scenic Set Up: Sophia Behm ‘27, Thomas Carpenter ‘27, Paul Petersen ‘27, Emily Smith ‘27
House Manager: Julia Battista ‘26
