Much I do about nothing *

This was our second foray to Emerson Stage to see "Much I do about nothing" play and considering the overwhelming success of "Little Women" we were both really looking forward to this play. As usual, I explained this classic Shakespeare’s comedic play of love, misunderstanding and obstacles.

However, to my surprise and disappointment, Emerson College modernized the play by placing in in the middle of 1960, with main characters as sports jocks! There were too much of constant movement of scene decorations that left you dizzy, and while the furniture was moved, two hippie characters proclaimed strange, monologues about growing feminist and civil rights movement. Talk about confusing!!!

Gwyneth insisted on sitting through the entire play, just to make sure that Claudio and Hero would get together, but later admitted that musicals are better than some famous Shakespearean play.

Little Women * * * * *

Our first foray into the musical was "Little Women" based on Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel, on a small, cozy stage at Emerson College. This was the first time we have come to this small stage and because we were a bit late, we ended up sitting right in the front row! There is no "stage" per say and all the actors were signing just in front of us.

It was phenomenal! I had low expectations for a college musical and thought that we might need to sneak out earlier. The singing was wonderful, the costumes very detailed and the actress that played Jo was Gwyneth's favorite. As always I tried to explain the story to Gwyneth before hand, and surprisingly, she was able to follow most of it and emotionally connect to major characters. When one of the sisters dies, Gwyneth was ready to cry.

It was a pretty long production of about 2 hours, but Gwyneth didn't even want to get up during the intermission, as she was afraid she would miss something.

I would highly recommend this musical for a 5year old! Gwyneth keeps asking when can we go again to see Jo.