WHEATLAND – The set is up and almost ready for the Wheatland Thespian Troupe’s presentation of “Little Women” Feb. 20, 21 and 22 at 7 p.m. at the Wheatland High School Auditorium.
The play was written by Marisha Chamberlain based on the novel of the same title by Louisa May Alcott published in 1868. The story is loosely based on Alcott’s own family of her and her three sisters: Anna, Elizabeth and May. It is a much beloved story with countless versions of plays and movies portraying the trials and triumphs of the March family.
This production features several seniors. Nichole Biggs plays the oldest sister Meg, with Lillian Fuentes in the character of Jo. Newcomer senior Courtney Weaver graces the stage as Marmee, the matriarch of the sisters. Aiden Megeath comes in as the Father near the end of the play, but during the scene changes he joins Sabella Douglas and Eleni McKee in singing songs of the Victorian era appropriate for the time period of the play. Underclass performers include Aury Bertoch, Erica Biggs, Jojo Jackson, Leah Eaton, Kavon Powell, Monica Tracy and Ainsley Weaver with cameos by Laura Eaton and Sage Nelson. Backstage crew include Stage Manager Ronan Bertoch with support crew Ella Anderson, Emiliano Bell, Laura Eaton, Sal Fuentes, Shakyra Hershey, Sage Nelson, Zailey Krotz and Chris Sinner.

The cast auditioned and received their scripts before Christmas break and have been rehearsing since early January. They will spend the next two weeks practicing on the stage at the High School and learning how to navigate wearing large hoop skirts.
“It’s been so much fun bringing this piece of American literature to life. I know I’ve learned a lot in the process, and I believe the students have as well,” said drama coach Kalyn Krotz.
At last semester’s State Thespian Festival, the Troupe won first place for their one-act performance of “Sunday Tea with Desireé.” Three students qualified for National Thespian Festival: Zailey Krotz in costume design, Bernie Douglas in original script and Lillian Fuentes in costume construction. Honorable mentions were earned by singers Sabella Douglas and Eleni McKee as well as make-up artist Sarah Laney.
“Little Women” will be performed at the high school auditorium this Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Admission will be by donation and a bake sale will be held during intermission to support the efforts and future productions of the thespian troupe.