The sights, sounds and smells of summer and Christmas in 1860s America will surround showgoers at a pioneering piece of drama coming to Sheringham next month.

Eastern Daily Press: Gretel Brice coaches daughters Megan and Matilda in their roles as Jo and Beth in Little Women. Picture: Richard BatsonGretel Brice coaches daughters Megan and Matilda in their roles as Jo and Beth in Little Women. Picture: Richard Batson (Image: Archant)

A stage musical version of the classic tale Little Women showcases the talents of young actors learning their craft.

And the production - a premiere in East Anglia - will see the whole theatre filled with costumed characters, music, and aromas to suit the period and seasons from the moment the audience enters Sheringham Little Theatre to when they leave.

Director Gretel Brice said: 'We are trying to make it a fully interactive experience, which is a first for the region.'

Louisa May Alcott's novel is set during the American Civil War and focuses on the four March sisters, living with their determined mother while their father is away at war. The musical version is also intermingled with fantasy stories penned by one of the girls, Jo, an aspiring writer.

The 10-strong cast, who play 18 different roles, are all at drama school or have recently qualified, and most have been involved with the theatre's youth programme.

The director added: 'The cast are friends getting back together again after their training.

'The show is a real test, because they are playing a range of characters, both in the real world and the fantasy one created by Jo. 'They are all doing brilliantly, learning about in-depth character work, and teamwork too through supporting each other.'

Sheringham's version of the show, which has run on Broadway, also has a strong family feel as Gretel's daughters Megan and Matilda play sisters Jo and Beth.

Gretel, 49, who lives near Happisburgh, has shown her own strength by getting actively involved with her passions of theatre and dance while battling with ovarian cancer.

Little Women runs from July 5-7 at Sheringham Little Theatre and at St George's Theatre, Great Yarmouth on July 8. Gretel does youth and family drama work at both venues.

For more information and to book tickets at www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com, 01263 822347, or www.stgeorgestheatre.com, 01493 331484.