Northern Kentucky University theater season launched Sept. 29 with a premiere of the musical “Little Women,” based on Louisa May Alcott’s 1868 novel.

The story focuses on the lives of the four March sisters and occurs against the backdrop of the American Civil War.

“I read the book when I was little,” said sophomore counseling and human services major Lydia Wall. “I didn’t know what to expect, it being a musical, but I liked it.”

The musical entertains with romance, humor, drama and a little bit of action. NKU’s musical lasts 2 1/2 hours and contains 23 songs. It includes a cast of 11 and a 12-member live orchestra. Sandra Forman directs, with musical direction by Jamey Strawn.

Jo March, an aspiring writer and Beth March, the gentle sister, steal the heart of the audience when they sing their emotional duet “Some Things Are Meant To Be,” while Aunt March, the cruel witch, makes the entire audience laugh with rapid eye-movements, gestures and a fancy costume.

When asked about her favorite character, Wall said, “I like Jo. I guess because she knows what she wants and she is not afraid to be different.”

A plain white house, designed by Ronald A. Shaw is the background of the stage. The furniture includes a couple of couches, wood desks, a chimney and a piano that take the audience back to the 1860s.

Costume Designer Joy Glabraith, did an excellent job designing the wardrobe. The long dresses with bishop sleeves, flounced skirts, frock coats, blazers and vests truly reflect the Victorian Era and the poverty of the March sisters.

Lighting directed by Weston Wilkerson and sound by Rob Kerby complement the musical as well as the characters.

The premiere was a success and received a standing ovation. According to NKU’s box office, “Little Women” almost sold out the opening night and it is still selling.

“Come see the show,” said Harli Cooper, a junior theatre and dance major said. “Great story with a great cast equals good night of entertainment.”

“Little Women” shows at 8 p.m. Oct 5-9 in the Corbett Theater. Tickets can be purchased online at http://bit.ly/oTyAkF or at the box office in Fine Arts Center Room 259 between noon and 5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

For more information, visit the website or call 859-572-5464.