Wild Swan Theater, an award-winning professional family theater company based in Ann Arbor, continues its 32nd anniversary season with an original stage adaptation of "Little Women," the classic novel by Louisa May Alcott. This production returns to the stage for 6 performances on Dec. 8-11.

"Little Women," of course, is the beloved American story of the March sisters, Meg, Jo, Amy and Beth, who are growing up in Civil War-era New England. When their devoted mother Marmee must leave them to visit their ailing father at the warfront, the young women must face life together. Loosely based on the author’s family life, the story explores how each young woman develops her character by overcoming personal weaknesses. It also offers a testimony to the strength of womanhood in the character of the girls’ mother, Marmee (Margaret).

Written by Wild Swan’s co-founder and co-artistic director Hilary Cohen, this production aims to deliver an inspiring message of resourcefulness and perseverance for children in grades 3-12 and their families.

Appearing as the March sisters are Esther Jentzen as Meg, Stacie Hadgikosti as Jo, Madison Deadman as Amy, and Katie Terpstra as Beth. Wild Swan favorite Jeremy Salvatori takes the role of Jo’s suitor, Laurie, and Mark Hammell appears as Mr. Lawrence, Laurie’s wealthy grandfather. Wild Swan’s co-founder and co-artistic director Sandy Ryder is the girls’ stern Aunt March, and company manager Michelle Trame Lanzi appears as Marmee, who leads by her loving example. Wild Swan’s adaptation of the story will feature period costumes designed by Suzanne Young and period music selected and performed by John Patrick. Beth Sandmaier is set designer, and Hilary Cohen directs. American Sign Language interpretation is provided by Erin Schwartz and Jamie Fidler.

Performances of "Little Women" are at Towsley Auditorium, Morris Lawrence Building, and Washtenaw Community College. Performances are Thursday, Dec. 8 at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 9 at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 10 at 2 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 11 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children and seniors. To order tickets, call 734-995-0530 or order through the theater’s website at www.wildswantheater.org.