WHEN the theatre and the set are as homespun as the story, it's a delight to be taken by surprise at the quality of Little Women The Musical.

The casting of the four March sisters, their mother, aunt and neighbours is precise and satisfying in this production of the beloved American novel which has never been out of print since it was published in 1868.

So their breaking into song feels just as appropriate, especially when the high class vocals match the characters as well as they do. And especially when the production is a reminder of how big a part music plays in the original story of the New England family and their simple lives against the backdrop of the American Civil War.

The transformation of the story into a musical does involve shifting events around a little, but it loses none of its integrity. We still share the March family's passions, joys and heartbreak. I was surprised, but glad, that the performances had the same power as the first reading of Little Women to make us laugh, and to bring a lump to the throat.

The show is a must for anyone who loved the books and would enjoy revisiting the stories and characters.

The production is the European premier of a musical that has been touring in USA since it debuted off Broadway in 2005.

It is being staged in the newest theatre on the Manchester scene, in Hope Mill Theatre, the creation of couple Joseph Houston and William Whelton, who moved to Manchester from London, inspired by Off West End theatres and with a dream of hosting musicals.

The theatre, in a converted mill in Ancoats, with a fine view of The Etihad stadium, is the setting for productions by Katy Lipson for Aria Entertainment. Katy is lead producer on the UK tour of The Addams Family and the 50th anniversary production of HAIR in London, which also opened at Hope Mill Theatre.

Little Women The Musical runs until December 9.