Watford Borough Council together with Watford Palace Theatre is inviting residents to discover, or rediscover, the magic of ‘Little Women’ with the initiative One Book, One Town, One Play (OTOBOP) this October.

First launched in 2020 as part of the ‘Watford Together’ campaign, which connected people around Watford through arts during the covid pandemic, OTOBOP will focus this time on Louisa May Alcott’s timeless classic ‘Little Women’. Originally published in 1896, the book was an immediate critical and commercial success becoming one of the best loved novels of all time. It has been adapted into several films and plays and is the perfect story to bring a community together.

This year, participants will not only be able to connect through the written word but also on stage with Watford Palace Theatre’s production of the novel by playwright Anne-Marie Casey which runs from 11-22 October. Following the matinee performance on the 16 October, OTOBOP participants can join the playwright and director Brigid Larmour for a lively Q&A, discussing their intention behind the adaptation and faithfulness to the original story, key themes and the reasoning behind set and directorial decisions.

Participants who choose to read or reread the book are being invited to take part in an exclusive book club on the 2 November hosted by Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor and Helen Nicel, Head of Watford Writers Club. Attendees will be able to discuss the themes in the books and how they have stood the test of time. The book is available for purchase from bookstores, such as Waterstones or available to loan from your local libraries.

Brigid Larmour, Artistic Director and Anne-Marie Casey, Adaptor, said: “We are delighted that Watford Borough Council are partnering with Watford Palace Theatre on the One Town, One Book, One Play initiative. ‘Little Women’ remains one of the best loved novels of all time and has brought endless pleasure to countless readers since then. It celebrates friendship, family and community and we thank Watford Borough Council for this collaboration and the opportunity to introduce it to a new audience.”

For more information, please visit www.watford.gov.uk/onebook

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