News Summary
Broadway San Diego’s Civic Theatre is hosting the Tony Award-winning musical ‘Suffs’, highlighting the women’s suffrage movement. Created by Shaina Taub, this production runs until October 5 and features an all-female cast portraying key figures like Mary Chapman Catt and Alice Paul. The musical captures the struggles and triumphs of suffragists, emphasizing the inclusion of Black women’s narratives. With engaging performances and powerful themes, ‘Suffs’ has garnered positive audience reactions and critical acclaim for its unique blend of history, humor, and social commentary.
San Diego is currently hosting the Tony Award-winning musical Suffs at Broadway San Diego’s Civic Theatre, where performances are scheduled to run until October 5. This compelling production, created by Shaina Taub, sheds light on the pivotal struggles and victories of the women’s suffrage movement in 1913, focusing on the tireless efforts of suffragists who fought for voting rights.
The musical features key characters who represent different facets of the movement. Mary Chapman Catt, portrayed by Marya Grandy, leads the older generation of the National American Woman Suffrage Association. Alice Paul, depicted by Maya Keleher, symbolizes the radical segment of the movement, advocating for more direct and immediate action. The diverse cast also includes Lucy Burns (played by Gwynne Wood), Inez Milholland (played by Monica Tulia Ramirez), Doris Stevens (played by Livvy Marcus), and Ruza Wenclawska (played by Joyce Meimei Zheng), along with notable historical figures including Ida B. Wells (played by Danyel Fulton) and Mary Church Terrell (played by Trisha Jeffrey).
One of the show’s significant strengths is its emphasis on the inclusion of Black women in the suffrage narrative. It directly addresses the challenge of balancing racial and gender rights, a theme that resonates with contemporary discussions about activism and social justice. Danyel Fulton’s performance of “Wait My Turn” has received notable acclaim, reflecting the emotional gravity of the struggles faced by women of color within the movement.
Suffs masterfully blends humor with serious themes, which is especially evident in the duet “If We Were Married” featuring Doris and Dudley Malone (played by Brandi Porter). This piece critiques the legal ramifications of marriage for women, showcasing the show’s ability to address pressing issues in an engaging manner. The score includes a mix of traditional musical theatre styles infused with contemporary pop, drawing comparisons to Hamilton while retaining its unique identity and appeal.
The production is visually impressive, with set design crafted by Christine Peters, dynamic lighting by Lap Chi Chu, and impactful costumes designed by Paul Tazewell. The all-female cast performs with powerful harmonies, greatly enhancing the emotional depth of the narrative. The musical fervently historically contextualizes the women’s suffrage movement, culminating in the passing of the 19th Amendment in 1920.
Audiences in San Diego have responded positively, with many giving standing ovations and showing enthusiastic appreciation following performances. Reviews of the show highlight the clever pacing, engaging storyline, and the strong performances delivered by the entire cast, labeling Suffs as a must-see production.
To enrich their portrayal of the characters and the historical significance of the suffrage movement, the cast participated in a museum tour prior to the beginning of the show. This tour helped them gain a deeper understanding of suffrage history and the achievements of women in California, who gained voting rights in 1911.
Through its compelling narrative and engaging musicality, Suffs not only serves as entertainment but also resonates with ongoing discussions surrounding women’s rights and activism today. Its unique blend of history and creativity invites audiences to reflect on the past while considering the implications for the present and future.
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Additional Resources
- San Diego Union-Tribune: ‘Suffs’ Tour Feels Right on Time
- Broadway World: Review of SUFFS at Broadway San Diego
- 10 News: Broadway San Diego Opens 48th Season with SUFFS
- San Diego Jewish World: SUFFS Has Got the Stuff
- Wikipedia: Women’s Suffrage in the United States
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
