The production reflected the company’s ongoing commitment to professionalism, collaboration, and growth. Guests were welcomed by student greeters and a brand new snack bar, while polished set design, lighting, and costuming elevated the show’s quality to a new level. Every detail, from the student-led backstage operations and makeup artistry to the post-show meet and greet, embodied the spirit of a program that is expanding both its artistic reach and its sense of community.
The evening also highlighted the depth of talent developing at Liberty. When an unexpected change in the cast required understudy Adalyn Maner to step into the role of Amy March just hours before curtain, she delivered a confident, moving performance, a testament to the preparation, teamwork, and dedication cultivated within the PLAYtriot ensemble.
For student assistant director Ciaran Lollar, this production was more than just a performance, it was a learning experience in leadership and creative collaboration.
“This has been one of the best shows I have had the honor to work on. The entire cast and crew put their hearts into it and it truly shows. I'm so glad that I got to be a part of this show. Student directing alongside Mrs. Herring was a blast. I can't wait for the next show.”
Ciaran’s experience illustrates how Liberty’s theatre program empowers students to take ownership of the creative process. By stepping into leadership roles, students gain hands-on experience in direction, problem-solving, and teamwork, skills that extend far beyond the stage.
Behind the scenes, Violet Richards found her own sense of purpose and belonging as deck chief.
“Working as a crew member for Liberty High’s production of Little Women was an amazing experience that I’d be honored to have again. I loved working with so many different people, learning from my teachers, experiencing what it’s like to be backstage for the first time, and most of all, meeting the new friends I made along the way. Everyone was so kind and hardworking. This experience showed me how rewarding it is to be part of a team that brings a show to life.”
Violet’s reflection underscores how the backstage experience, often unseen by audiences, is vital to every production’s success. From managing props to coordinating scene changes, Liberty’s technical crew gains confidence and collaboration skills while ensuring every performance runs smoothly.
On stage, Auria Shamblin, who played Jo March while also serving as the show’s costumer, shared how the production deepened her artistic and personal growth: “Working on Little Women has been an amazing journey as both the costumer and an actor. I have truly built a family with this cast, and I believe we channel that clearly on stage. I am immensely grateful to have worked with a new director who has brought fresh ideas and new energy to our department. I look forward to continuing to grow with Mrs. Herring and our new Auditorium Attendant in our next show, Little Shop of Horrors.”
Auria’s dual role reflects the heart of Liberty Theatre, students learning every aspect of production, from costume design to character development, and discovering the connection between creativity and community.
In addition to Mrs. Herring’s direction, the success of Little Women is also a reflection of the work of staff member Justine Luevano, who serves in the new role at Liberty of Auditorium Attendant, Set Designer, and Stage Manager. Together, Herring and Luevano have formed a powerful partnership, mentoring students and growing their love for theatre while guiding them through every facet of what it takes to bring a production to life. Their collaboration has elevated the PLAYtriot Theatre Company’s standards of creativity, discipline, and teamwork, setting a strong foundation for the program’s continued growth.
For Mrs. Herring, Little Women was both a celebration of Liberty’s past and a launchpad for its future: “Little Women is such a beautiful and beloved story, and I was very excited to get to share it with LHS audiences. It was a full circle moment for the Patriot family, as the very first show ever produced at Liberty was Little Women. For this to be my first show here made it an especially meaningful homecoming. Justine Luevano and I are thrilled to be working with such eager students who have given so much time, energy, hard work, and dedication to their craft. We couldn’t be more thrilled with the outcome and are already looking ahead to what’s next.”
Mrs. Herring’s words reflect the program’s broader mission: to nurture students as artists, leaders, and collaborators who understand that great theatre is built on shared vision, persistence, and heart.
The success of Little Women marks not just the debut of a new director, but the continuation of a growing, student-centered theatre program rooted in excellence, teamwork, and creativity. As the PLAYtriot Theatre Company looks toward its next production, Little Shop of Horrors, Liberty’s theatre community remains committed to building on this momentum, cultivating talent, nurturing leadership, and ensuring that every show strengthens the legacy of performing arts at Liberty High School.
Audiences have another opportunity to experience Little Women this week, with performances at 7:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and a Saturday matinee at 2:00 p.m.