The Gorham High School (GHS) theater department has been working tirelessly to make sure that this year’s production of “Little Women” will be one of the best they’ve ever done. Opening on November 12, the talented cast is ready to show their hard work to the community.

“Little Women” is based on the 1868 novel by Louisa May Alcott and was adapted as a play by Marisha Chamberlain. It’s set outside of Boston during the Civil War and follows a year in the life of the March family. Throughout the story, the sisters deal with triumphs and setbacks that help shape them into the adults they’ll eventually become.

Because of COVID-19 restrictions, an in-person show wasn’t possible last fall. While precautions still have to be taken this year, like wearing masks during every rehearsal, the entire cast and crew is ecstatic for the chance to perform in front of a live audience again.

One of the biggest COVID-related changes this year is double-casting. Some roles have two students cast as the same character so in the event that someone has to unexpectedly quarantine, the show will still go on.

Beth March, the second youngest sister, is one of the double-cast roles. She is played by Kaylin Brown and Erin Abrams. Each actress also has an ensemble role to rehearse for. If all goes as planned, they will both play Beth in at least one show.

“Playing Beth is truly a joy,” said Brown. “On my days off from playing Beth, I get to perform in the ensemble. It’s actually a really cool experience to be double-cast, and I find I have learned a lot from my cast buddy.”

Aside from Beth, four other characters have been double cast. Josie Tierney-Fife, a teacher at GHS and the director of the play, said that while this is a challenge for the actors, they’ve all embraced the opportunity to experience the new rehearsal process.

“We are very excited to do this in-person and welcome a real life audience to MPAC again,” said Tierney- Fife. “It’s such a fun show and I really hope people can come out and see it.”

“Little Women” will debut Friday, November 12 at 7:30 p.m. at Gorham High School. There will be shows at 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday the 13th, followed by a final show at 2:30 p.m. on the 14th. Tickets will be sold at the door.