Little Women
at Tri-School

Reviewed on November 7, 2015

Jackson Maxwell
Mission Viejo High School
Submitted for publication to OC Register

Tri-School's ‘Little Women' delights

Jackson Maxwell is a Junior at Mission Viejo High School


Tri-School Theater's marvelous production of "Little Women," a musical adaptation of Alcott's classic novel, follows a mother and her four daughters as they tackle the issues of adulthood, responsibility, hardship, love, and finding their own purpose.

Immediately engaging is actress Alexandra Worden, as Jo, the ambitious young protagonist and aspiring writer, whose captivating movements and powerful vocals underscore her character's unwavering determination to take on the world around her. From reciting her "blood and guts" stories to agreeing to marry the eccentric Professor Bhaer, played by Brandon Martinez, Worden successfully transitions between rebellious, daring teenager to mature, intelligent young woman. Her sonorous soprano, however, is most sensational during "Some Things Are Meant To Be," wherein her terminally ill sister Beth (Gianna Gazich) bids farewell as she prepares for her imminent departure from this world. Integrating passionate emotion into her resonant vibrato, Gazich makes this sentimental number a highlight of the show.

Similarly vocal in character and voice is Steve Wehner as Laurie, the lovestruck schoolboy from the neighborhood whose quick, juvenile way of speaking accentuates the immaturity of the character without seeming unnaturally hurried. Similarly childish is Joanna Juarez as Young Amy, whose perfectly vexing immaturity contrasts with the newfound sophistication and sensibility of Older Amy, played by Allyson San Roman.

Strutting onstage with a flawlessly upright posture and distinctively disdainful tone of voice, Annabelle Soto is laughably ludicrous as Aunt March, the overbearing and judgmental relative of the sisters who prides herself on training them to become "sensible" adults. Despite her relatively small role, she becomes one of the most memorable acts of the performance through a well-developed character, successfully demonstrating the relationship between the Aunt's austerity and the inner love for the girls that motivates her to care for their well-being.

As Marmee, the matriarch of the family, Vitoria Villalobos glides gently across the stage, maintaining a motherly sweetness that conveys a beyond-her-years maturity. Especially during "Here Alone," in which she writes a response to her husband's letter from the battlefield, her tenderness shines through while she caresses the letter as if it were her husband there with her.

Tri-School's production grasps at more than a few heartstrings through its brilliant blend of vehement vocals and complex characterization, creating an emotional journey that illuminates a classic coming-of-age story in a fresh, new light.

Jackson Maxwell
Mission Viejo High School
Submitted for publication to OC Register

Tri-School's ‘Little Women' delights

Jackson Maxwell is a Junior at Mission Viejo High School


Tri-School Theater's marvelous production of "Little Women," a musical adaptation of Alcott's classic novel, follows a mother and her four daughters as they tackle the issues of adulthood, responsibility, hardship, love, and finding their own purpose.

Immediately engaging is actress Alexandra Worden, as Jo, the ambitious young protagonist and aspiring writer, whose captivating movements and powerful vocals underscore her character's unwavering determination to take on the world around her. From reciting her "blood and guts" stories to agreeing to marry the eccentric Professor Bhaer, played by Brandon Martinez, Worden successfully transitions between rebellious, daring teenager to mature, intelligent young woman. Her sonorous soprano, however, is most sensational during "Some Things Are Meant To Be," wherein her terminally ill sister Beth (Gianna Gazich) bids farewell as she prepares for her imminent departure from this world. Integrating passionate emotion into her resonant vibrato, Gazich makes this sentimental number a highlight of the show.

Similarly vocal in character and voice is Steve Wehner as Laurie, the lovestruck schoolboy from the neighborhood whose quick, juvenile way of speaking accentuates the immaturity of the character without seeming unnaturally hurried. Similarly childish is Joanna Juarez as Young Amy, whose perfectly vexing immaturity contrasts with the newfound sophistication and sensibility of Older Amy, played by Allyson San Roman.

Strutting onstage with a flawlessly upright posture and distinctively disdainful tone of voice, Annabelle Soto is laughably ludicrous as Aunt March, the overbearing and judgmental relative of the sisters who prides herself on training them to become "sensible" adults. Despite her relatively small role, she becomes one of the most memorable acts of the performance through a well-developed character, successfully demonstrating the relationship between the Aunt's austerity and the inner love for the girls that motivates her to care for their well-being.

As Marmee, the matriarch of the family, Vitoria Villalobos glides gently across the stage, maintaining a motherly sweetness that conveys a beyond-her-years maturity. Especially during "Here Alone," in which she writes a response to her husband's letter from the battlefield, her tenderness shines through while she caresses the letter as if it were her husband there with her.

Tri-School's production grasps at more than a few heartstrings through its brilliant blend of vehement vocals and complex characterization, creating an emotional journey that illuminates a classic coming-of-age story in a fresh, new light.

Faith Quigley
Santa Margarita Catholic
Submitted for publication to OC Register

Tri- School Theatre delights in ‘Little Women'

Faith Quigley is a Junior at Santa Margarita Catholic High School


In 1866 New York men hold all of the power in the career world, yet one young woman is determined to change this and overcome the status quo. As the show begins she passionately belts out ‘An Operatic Tragedy' to a distinguished professor, as an ensemble of story book characters bring the story to the stage.

Commanding the stage Alexandra Worden plays the determined and direct Jo March. As she crusades to achieve her goals of being a published author she overcomes tragedy, discovers the importance of the family unit, and despite all odds falls in love. Worden truly develops her character on stage from her defiant marching across the stage in her solo "Astonishing," to her soothing and sorrowful solo in act two "The Fire Within Me" where she extends one arm into the sky and holds the other over her heart in raw heartbreak over the loss of her sister Beth, Gianna Gazich.

Other members of the March family also bring spirit to the show. From the peevish character of Young Amy played by Joanna Juarez, to the nurturing matriarch Marmee, Vitoria Villalobos, the March family comes together to create a cohesive and inspiring family unit that is celebrated in songs such as "Five Forever," "Off the Massachusetts- Reprise," and "Days of Plenty." The courageous family is perfectly balanced in the romantic and delicate gestures of Meg, Haley Fuchs, and the pretentious upright posture and swift character walk of Aunt March, Annabelle Soto.

Gianna Gazich is capable of bringing chills and sniffles to an audience as her character Beth bellows out in her and Worden's duet "Some Things are Meant to Be." Never failing to carry soft and comforting facial expressions and moving in a gentle and delicate manner across the stage. Gazich also offers up magnificent talent on the piano as she sings and plays "Off to Massachusetts" with her crotchety neighbor Mr. Laurence, played by Patrick Aimone.

Another notable performance is found in the jovial and charmingly awkward Laurie, played by Steve Wehner. Laurie brings not only a refreshing dose of comical delight, but astonishes in vocal ability, showcased in his solo "Take a Chance on Me" and dances aptly despite his aloof character embodiment.

All in all, ‘Little Women' delights and showcases breathtaking vocals in unison with passionate theatrics to inspire excellence and bring joy to the audience.

Faith Quigley
Santa Margarita Catholic
Submitted for publication to OC Register

Tri- School Theatre delights in ‘Little Women'

Faith Quigley is a Junior at Santa Margarita Catholic High School


In 1866 New York men hold all of the power in the career world, yet one young woman is determined to change this and overcome the status quo. As the show begins she passionately belts out ‘An Operatic Tragedy' to a distinguished professor, as an ensemble of story book characters bring the story to the stage.

Commanding the stage Alexandra Worden plays the determined and direct Jo March. As she crusades to achieve her goals of being a published author she overcomes tragedy, discovers the importance of the family unit, and despite all odds falls in love. Worden truly develops her character on stage from her defiant marching across the stage in her solo "Astonishing," to her soothing and sorrowful solo in act two "The Fire Within Me" where she extends one arm into the sky and holds the other over her heart in raw heartbreak over the loss of her sister Beth, Gianna Gazich.

Other members of the March family also bring spirit to the show. From the peevish character of Young Amy played by Joanna Juarez, to the nurturing matriarch Marmee, Vitoria Villalobos, the March family comes together to create a cohesive and inspiring family unit that is celebrated in songs such as "Five Forever," "Off the Massachusetts- Reprise," and "Days of Plenty." The courageous family is perfectly balanced in the romantic and delicate gestures of Meg, Haley Fuchs, and the pretentious upright posture and swift character walk of Aunt March, Annabelle Soto.

Gianna Gazich is capable of bringing chills and sniffles to an audience as her character Beth bellows out in her and Worden's duet "Some Things are Meant to Be." Never failing to carry soft and comforting facial expressions and moving in a gentle and delicate manner across the stage. Gazich also offers up magnificent talent on the piano as she sings and plays "Off to Massachusetts" with her crotchety neighbor Mr. Laurence, played by Patrick Aimone.

Another notable performance is found in the jovial and charmingly awkward Laurie, played by Steve Wehner. Laurie brings not only a refreshing dose of comical delight, but astonishes in vocal ability, showcased in his solo "Take a Chance on Me" and dances aptly despite his aloof character embodiment.

All in all, ‘Little Women' delights and showcases breathtaking vocals in unison with passionate theatrics to inspire excellence and bring joy to the audience.

Gillian Tatreau
Huntington Beach-APA
Submitted for publication to OC Cappies Facebook

Sister love prevails in Tri-School's ‘Little Women'


Gillian Tatreau is a Senior at Huntington Beach APA


From ice-skating misadventures to marriage proposals, the cast of Tri-School's ‘Little Women' truly captures the heart of Louisa May Alcott's famous novel with their fantastic production. The four March sisters come of age with the help of their beloved Marmee in their home in Concord Massachusetts during the Civil War.

The March sisters deliver song after song of beautiful vocals with enchanting poise. The entire cast infuses love and grace into every song and dialogue exchange, without leaving out any of the fun. The enthusiasm and energy reverberated throughout the cast.

Never once faltering, Alexandra Worden as Jo exemplifies the strong character through her beautiful vocals and dominating presence. Worden masterfully brings both spitfire and compassion to her portrayal of the aspiring writer. The apparent growth in maturity in Jo's character drew Worden's talent to the forefront, as she delved into the character with energy and grace, while maintaining Jo's signature spark.

Steve Wehner portrays Laurie, the lovable boy-next-door with a touch of flustered charm. His high range and clear vocals were exemplified in songs such as "Take a Chance on Me" and "Five Forever." Taking a different approach than the conventional, Wehner's character is much more immature and his love for Jo is reminiscent of a first crush instead of a full-fledged romance.

Providing a sweet antithesis to the rest of the family, Gianna Gazich's Beth provides a grounding point and moral center for the family. Gazich's vocals in "Some Things Are Meant To Be" were chillingly beautiful. Her interactions with Patrick Aimone's aloof Mr. Lawrence prove her character's innocence and beauty.

Marmee, played by Vitoria Villalobos, provides a charming and mature center for the family and her solo in "Here Alone" perfectly captures her strength and poise as the caring mother of four young girls. Without her husband, Marmee has to be the pillar of strength for her children and Villalobos perfectly captures that strength and elegance with maturity and grace.

The ensemble of ballroom dancers exemplified the spirit of the time period and was executed with both energy and precision. The other characters, including Caitlin Crawley's Mrs. Kirk, followed the rest of the character's verve, energy, enthusiasm, and talent.

Ending the production with one last song that ties the show together, reinforces the idea that family is our greatest strength, for love never dies.

Gillian Tatreau
Huntington Beach-APA
Submitted for publication to OC Cappies Facebook

Sister love prevails in Tri-School's ‘Little Women'


Gillian Tatreau is a Senior at Huntington Beach APA


From ice-skating misadventures to marriage proposals, the cast of Tri-School's ‘Little Women' truly captures the heart of Louisa May Alcott's famous novel with their fantastic production. The four March sisters come of age with the help of their beloved Marmee in their home in Concord Massachusetts during the Civil War.

The March sisters deliver song after song of beautiful vocals with enchanting poise. The entire cast infuses love and grace into every song and dialogue exchange, without leaving out any of the fun. The enthusiasm and energy reverberated throughout the cast.

Never once faltering, Alexandra Worden as Jo exemplifies the strong character through her beautiful vocals and dominating presence. Worden masterfully brings both spitfire and compassion to her portrayal of the aspiring writer. The apparent growth in maturity in Jo's character drew Worden's talent to the forefront, as she delved into the character with energy and grace, while maintaining Jo's signature spark.

Steve Wehner portrays Laurie, the lovable boy-next-door with a touch of flustered charm. His high range and clear vocals were exemplified in songs such as "Take a Chance on Me" and "Five Forever." Taking a different approach than the conventional, Wehner's character is much more immature and his love for Jo is reminiscent of a first crush instead of a full-fledged romance.

Providing a sweet antithesis to the rest of the family, Gianna Gazich's Beth provides a grounding point and moral center for the family. Gazich's vocals in "Some Things Are Meant To Be" were chillingly beautiful. Her interactions with Patrick Aimone's aloof Mr. Lawrence prove her character's innocence and beauty.

Marmee, played by Vitoria Villalobos, provides a charming and mature center for the family and her solo in "Here Alone" perfectly captures her strength and poise as the caring mother of four young girls. Without her husband, Marmee has to be the pillar of strength for her children and Villalobos perfectly captures that strength and elegance with maturity and grace.

The ensemble of ballroom dancers exemplified the spirit of the time period and was executed with both energy and precision. The other characters, including Caitlin Crawley's Mrs. Kirk, followed the rest of the character's verve, energy, enthusiasm, and talent.

Ending the production with one last song that ties the show together, reinforces the idea that family is our greatest strength, for love never dies.