Laura Benanti’s Moving Take on “Little Women” Highlights New Musical Adaptation of Alcott’s Classic
2 mins readTony Award winner Laura Benanti brings heartfelt warmth to the role of Marmee March in the studio recording of Jo – The Little Women Musical. A newly released video showcases Benanti performing the moving song “Little Women,” offering listeners a glimpse into the sweeping score inspired by Louisa May Alcott’s timeless novel.
The album, which brings together a blend of Broadway, West End, and international talent, was recorded at London’s Abbey Road Studios and officially released worldwide on May 23 through Center Stage Records. It’s available to stream across major platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes, and Amazon Music. The project features music by Dan Redfeld with a book and lyrics by Christina Harding and John Gabriel Koladziej. Redfeld co-produced the recording with Nigel Wright, alongside executive producer Brian Purcell.
In addition to Benanti, the cast includes Grammy nominee Christine Allado as Jo March, Tony winner Christine Ebersole as Aunt March, Olivier nominee Julian Ovenden as Father, Tony nominee Bob Gunton as Grandfather, Kelly Mathieson as Meg March, Sophie Pollono as Amy March, Eleanor Grant as Beth March, Rob Houchen as Theodore “Laurie” Laurence, Chris Mann as Professor Bhaer, Liam Tamne as John Brooke, Tobias Turley as Fred Vaughn, and Miyuki Miyagi as Sallie Gardiner.
Composer Dan Redfeld described the album as a complete musical experience, praising the cast and orchestra for capturing the spirit of Alcott’s story. A semi-staged concert presentation of Jo – The Little Women Musical is also planned for a future engagement in London, directed by JoAnn M. Hunter.
The release marks a new interpretation of Alcott’s classic tale. Fans may recall that a different version of Little Women, with music by Jason Howland, lyrics by Mindi Dickstein, and a book by Allan Knee, opened on Broadway in 2005 and earned Sutton Foster a Tony nomination for her portrayal of Jo.
Watch the full performance above and learn more about the project at JotheMusical.com.
