I think it's better that beth didn't die in the play. People who haven't read or seen "Little Women" don't need to know the details of the story, they only need to see Maya act.
The moral of this episode: when wanting to act out a sickly character, stay outside in the rain for hours until you are actually sick.
A fool proof and entirely safe technique! XD
@Amu and Kakashi that's because the manga started in 1976 (the white eyes were usually used to create a very dramatic feel). It went on an long hiatus and as of 2008 is being continued with the intention of completion.