Ephrata High School students get into character as the March sisters for their upcoming performance of "Little Women: The Musical." The show will be performed March 30 and 31.
Director Dave Dierwechter talks to the "Little Women" cast prior to Thursday's rehearsal. This show marks the last time he will direct before his retirement.
The set is ready for the spotlight.
This year's spring musical at Ephrata High School marks a special turning point for two people associated with the production.
"Little Women: The Musical," based on Louisa May Alcott's 19th century novel, will be performed March 30-31. It will be brought to life by director Dave Dierwechter.
For Dierwechter, the musical marks his final production at Ephrata. He has been directing since 2003. Before that, he directed plays at the both the middle school and elementary school level.
"I have been doing this since 1968. This year, I will be retiring," he said. "I love working with the students. It's bittersweet. I'm going to miss it."
For senior Abby Miles, the musical will be her final chance to shine on the Ephrata stage as well.
During her career at the school, Miles has been cast as the lead in every musical. Her final role will be as Jo March, a part that sharply contrasts with other roles she's played.
"Last year, I played Cinderella. Now, I'm playing a character that is very independent — an independent thinker," she said.
Miles encourages everyone to see this year's play.
"It is really emotional. There is really good acting going on," she said.
Alcott's classic stresses the importance of sacrifice and family from the point of view of the March family. There's the warm and loving Marmee; the vivacious Amy; the sweet and dreamy Meg; the tender-hearted Beth; the handsome and charming Laurie; and of course the passionate and funny Jo.
The musical captures all the struggle, romance and deep emotions of Alcott's tale. Jo, Meg, Amy and Beth, guided by their mother Marmee, grow from girls into women, through romance and courtship, illness and loss, loving and letting go.
"People have been telling me they have been crying when they see our scenes. I think that is really cool. I've never made anyone cry before," Miles said.
In addition to Miles, the cast includes Kaitlyn Tothero as Amy March, Mackenzie Ruth as Meg March, Hannah Smith at Beth March, Georgia Miller as Marmee, Brandon Straley as Laurie, Mitchell Sensenig as Professor Bhar and Santina Quaranta as Aunt March.
'Little Women,' a musical for the whole family, will be presented on Friday, March 30, at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, March 31, at 2 and 7:30.
Tickets are $7 for students and children and $10 for adults. Reserved seats are available by calling the theater box office at 721-1592 or by visiting www.easdpa.org. All unsold seats will be available at the box office before each performance.
