Fish Creek, Wisconsin — Peninsula Players Theatre will host a Pre-Show Seminar with Dr. Valerie Murrenus Pilmaier, Associate Professor of English, Humanities and Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies at the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay, in conjunction with its production of “Little Women The Broadway Musical” book by Allan Knee, music by Jason Howland, lyrics by Mindi Dickstein, based on Louisa May Alcott’s novel. The seminar will be held on Friday, August 15, at 6:30 p.m. in the theater. Pilmaier will speak about the novel’s enduring themes of identity, independence and sisterhood through a feminist literary lens. Admission to the Pre-Show Seminar is free, and tickets to the 8:00 p.m. performance are available at www.peninsulaplayers.com or through the Box Office.
Pilmaier earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh, and later received her MA and PhD in British Literature from Marquette University. In addition to her role as associate professor at UW – Green Bay, she also serves as assessment coordinator.
Although “Little Women” was written in 1868, its relevance and resonance remain strong, as evidenced by numerous adaptations, including the most recent 2019 film. When Alcott was asked to write a book for young women, she drew from her childhood and the close relationship with her three sisters. Alcott’s father was an educator and encouraged his children to find enjoyment in learning, and, much like her character Jo March, Alcott developed a deep love for reading and writing. Alcott was also a leading pillar of the women’s suffrage movement in both the United States and Europe. She encouraged women to be strong, independent and educated, which is clear in her characters. She was also the first woman registered to vote in Concord, Connecticut, the town where “Little Women” is set.
“Little Women The Broadway Musical” performs at Peninsula Players Theatre Tuesdays through Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 7:30 p.m., except on Sunday, August 17 at 2:00 p.m., and is sponsored by Alibi Marina and Harbor Guest House with support from The Cordon Family Foundation. The audience pavilion’s side panels, doors, and vents will remain open throughout the summer season. Patrons should dress for the weather and be prepared for shifting temperatures and breezes off the bay. Peninsula Players Theatre is a smoke-free campus. Smoking is prohibited on the grounds at all times. Audience members are invited to come early for a pre-show beverage or snack at the Luna Bar and Canteen. The grounds open 90 minutes before the show. Contact the Box Office at (920) 868-3287 for more information on free seminars, post-show discussion, or to purchase tickets or visit www.peninsulaplayers.com.
