Suffs in NYC theater is a powerful and captivating theater play that brings to life the passionate journey of the suffragists who fought tirelessly for women’s right to vote in the early 20th century. Written and directed by Shaina Taub, Suffs shines a spotlight on the lesser-known heroes of the women’s suffrage movement, weaving together historical accuracy with emotional depth. The musical is also co-produced by former Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, and Nobel Laureate, Malala Yousafzai. The play serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of the heroes’ fight for voting rights and the ongoing quest for gender equality.
Here’s everything you need to know about Suffs before purchasing last-minute Suffs tickets in NYC from visitNYC and watching the play.
Story Overview
Suffs in New York is a compelling theater play that discusses the historical journey of the women’s suffrage movement in the United States, focusing on the events leading up to the ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920. The play primarily revolves around the lives and efforts of several key suffragists who played critical roles in securing the right to vote for women.
The play shows Alice Paul, a determined and strategic leader known for her relentless dedication to the suffrage cause. The narrative follows Alice as she leads various campaigns and protests, facing opposition not only from the political establishment but also within the suffrage movement itself. Her tireless efforts include organizing parades, hunger strikes, and picketing the White House, all aimed at drawing public attention to the cause of women’s suffrage.
The musical also highlights the contributions of Ida B. Wells, an African American journalist and activist. Ida confronts the racial prejudices that exist within the suffrage movement, advocating for the inclusion and recognition of black women’s rights alongside the broader push for women’s suffrage. Her interactions with other suffragists reveal the complexities and tensions within the movement regarding race and equality.
Carrie Chapman Catt, another significant figure in the play, represents a more politically savvy approach to achieving suffrage. Carrie’s strategy involves working within the existing political system and negotiating with lawmakers, sometimes clashing with the more radical methods employed by Alice Paul. The story explores the ideological rift between these two approaches, illustrating the different tactics employed in the fight for voting rights.
The story of Suffs revolves around historical events and personal sacrifices, showcasing the relentless pursuit of justice by these women. From the planning and execution of the 1913 Woman Suffrage Parade in Washington, D.C., to the harsh treatment of suffragists imprisoned for their activism, the play captures the highs and lows of the movement. It portrays the suffragists’ determination in the face of challenges and their ultimate triumph with the passage of the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote.
Cast Information
The current cast of the Suffs show in New York includes several prominent and talented actors. Here’s the list.
- Shaina Taubas Alice Paul
- Nikki M. Jamesas Ida B. Wells
- Jenn Colellaas Carrie Chapman Catt
- Grace McLeanas President Woodrow Wilson
- Ally Boninoas Lucy Burns
- Tsilala Brockas Dudley Malone
- Nadia Dandashias Doris Stevens
- Jaygee Macapugayas Mollie Hay
- Hannah Cruzas Inez Milholland
- Kim Blanck as Ruza Wenclawska
- Anastacia McCleskey as Mary Church Terrell
- Emily Skinneras Alva Belmont/Phoebe Burn
- Laila Drew as Phyllis Terrell/Robin
- Hawley Gouldas the alternate for Alice Paul
Supporting Cast
- Dana Costello
- Jenna Bainbridge
- Monica Tulia Ramirez
- Ada Westfall
- Christine Heesun Hwang
- Kirsten Scott
- Housso Semon
- D’Kaylah Unique Whitley
Venue Details
The Music Box Theatre, located at 239 West 45th Street, New York, NY, is a historic Broadway venue renowned for its intimate setting and excellent acoustics. Opened in 1921, it has hosted numerous acclaimed productions. Currently, it is showcasing the musical Suffs in New York, offering a cozy atmosphere that enhances the audience’s theatrical experience.
Reviews
Suffs in NYC theater has been recognized for its earnest and heart-tugging portrayal of the women’s suffrage movement, making it a significant and entertaining addition to Broadway. It has received considerable acclaim for its engaging storytelling, powerful performances, and musical score. The performances, particularly those of Taub, Jenn Colella, and Nikki M. James, have been noted for their intensity and commitment.
The set and costume designs have also received positive remarks for their authenticity and visual appeal. The set, designed by Riccardo Hernández, featured elements like Corinthian columns and sliding Victorian walls to create a transition between public and private spaces. The audience agreed that this design highlights the significance of key moments, such as Inez Milholland’s procession down Pennsylvania Avenue.
Costume designer Paul Tazewell’s creations were also praised, as they are deeply rooted in vintage photographs of the actual suffragists, adding authenticity while allowing for some artistic interpretation to suit the story and the performers.
Music
The musical score of Suffs in Broadway theater in NYC features a collection of songs that powerfully capture the essence of the women’s suffrage movement. Written by Shaina Taub and choreographed by Mayte Nataliovividly, here’s a list of the songs.
- “Let Mother Vote” — A call for the right of women to vote.
- “Finish the Fight” — A motivating anthem encouraging continued efforts in the suffrage movement.
- “Find A Way”— A song about determination and finding strategies to achieve suffrage goals.
- “Wait My Turn”— Ida B. Wells’ powerful solo about patience and perseverance.
- “Terrell’s Theme”— An instrumental piece reflecting the influence of Mary Church Terrell.
- “The March (We Demand Equality)”— A powerful number depicting a protest march for equality.
- “Great American Bitch”— A bold and provocative song challenging societal norms.
- “Ladies” — A song that highlights the diverse group of women in the suffrage movement.
- “A Meeting with President Wilson” — A dramatic piece portraying a crucial meeting with President Wilson.
- “Worth It”— A reflective song about the sacrifices made for the cause.
- “If We Were Married”— A duet imagining a different life if societal constraints were different.
- “The Convention Part 1”— The first part of a two-part series on a significant suffrage convention.
- “This Girl”— Carrie Chapman Catt’s solo about her journey.
- “The Convention Part 2”— The continuation and conclusion of the key convention.
- “Alva Belmont” — A song about the influential socialite and suffrage supporter.
- “Show Them Who You Are” — A song about self-empowerment and proving oneself.
- “The Campaign”— A lively number about the strategic campaign efforts.
- “How Long?”— A song questioning the duration of the struggle for suffrage.
- “The Young Are At The Gates”— A protest anthem about the younger generation’s involvement.
- “Respectfully Yours, Dudley Malone”— A song featuring a letter from a supportive politician.
- “Hold It Together”— A song about maintaining unity and focus.
- “Wait My Turn (reprise)”— A reprise of Ida B. Wells’ earlier solo.
- “The Report”— A song detailing a report on suffrage progress.
- “Show Them Who You Are (reprise)”— A reprise reinforcing the theme of self-empowerment.
- “Insane”— A song expressing the frustrations of the suffragists.
- “Fire & Tea” — A reflective song about the personal lives of the suffragists.
- “Let Mother Vote (reprise)”— A reprise of the initial call for voting rights.
- “She and I” — A song about the bond between suffragists.
- “Down at the State House” — A song about political efforts at the state level.
- “A Letter From Harry’s Mother”— A song based on a significant letter influencing a key vote.
- “I Was Here” — A reflective song about the legacy of the suffragists.
- “If We Were Married (reprise)”— A reprise of the earlier duet.
- “August 26th, 1920”— A celebratory song marking the passage of the 19th Amendment.
- “Lucy’s Song” — A song dedicated to Lucy Burns and her contributions.
- “Finish the Fight (reprise)”— A final reprise reinforcing the ongoing struggle for equality.
- “Keep Marching” — The closing number, emphasizing the continuous effort for women’s rights.
Awards
Suffs in New York has gathered significant recognition in the theater community, highlighted by the awards it has won. Here’s a list.
Tony Awards (2024)
- Best Original Score (Shaina Taub)
- Best Book of a Musical (Shaina Taub)
Outer Critics Circle Award (2024)
- Outstanding New Broadway Musical
Drama Desk Award (2024)
- Outstanding Music (Shaina Taub)
Run Length and Schedule
Suffs show in New York runs for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including an intermission. The musical is scheduled to perform multiple times a week at the Music Box Theatre.
Weekly Schedule
- Tuesday:7:00 PM
- Wednesday:2:00 PM (Matinee) and 7:00 PM
- Thursday:7:00 PM
- Friday:7:00 PM
- Saturday: 2:00 PM (Matinee) and 7:00 PM
- Sunday:3:00 PM
Food and Beverage Options
The Music Box Theatre has a wide variety of beers, wines, and other non-alcoholic beverages. The theater also serves snacks like candy, cheese and crackers, cheesecake, and chocolate chip cookies.
