“Suffs” at the Pantages: A Powerful, Though Familiar, Story of the Fight for the Vote
The national tour of “Suffs” has landed at the Hollywood Pantages Theater, bringing with it a vibrant and timely retelling of the American women’s suffrage movement.This new musical, with music and lyrics by Shaina Taub and book by Taub and Robert Horn, distinguishes itself with an entirely female cast, offering a fresh outlook on a pivotal chapter in U.S. history. While the show occasionally feels more like a well-executed history lesson then a gripping drama,its energy and the dedication of its performers make it a worthwhile experience.
A Movement Brought to Life
“Suffs” centers on Alice Paul (played with fierce determination), a young Quaker activist who revolutionizes the suffrage movement with her more militant tactics. You’ll witness her clash with the established National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA) and its more conservative approach. Taub skillfully blends past accuracy with fictionalized moments, creating a compelling narrative that highlights the complexities within the movement itself.
The musical doesn’t shy away from showcasing the internal debates and tensions.Notable figures alongside Alice include:
* Ruza Wenclawska (Joyce Meimei Zheng): A polish-born labor organizer bringing a pragmatic, grassroots energy.
* Doris Stevens (Livvy Marcus): A seemingly shy nebraska student who proves to be a vital,strategic force.
* Ida B. Wells (Danyel Fulton): A pioneering civil rights leader who challenges the movement’s inclusivity,questioning her role as a symbolic figure.
* Mary Church Terrell (Trisha Jeffrey): A fellow activist who advocates for participation as the key to achieving representation.
These characters, and many others, demonstrate that the fight for suffrage wasn’t monolithic. It was a coalition of diverse women with differing ideologies and priorities.
Political Pressure and Personal Costs
President Woodrow Wilson (Jenny Ashman) serves as a central antagonist,initially promising support while dragging his feet. The musical cleverly portrays the suffragists’ strategic pressure campaign, aided by Dudley Malone (Brandi Porter), a conflicted white House insider who finds himself drawn to Doris.
The score, a blend of patriotic marches reminiscent of John Philip Sousa and the broadway sensibilities of stephen Flaherty (“Ragtime”), propels the narrative forward.While you might not leave humming a catchy tune, the music effectively underscores the relentless pursuit of justice.
A History Lesson with Heart
Because the outcome of the story is known, “Suffs” sometimes struggles with dramatic tension. The characters face hardship - including imprisonment – but the ultimate victory feels predetermined. This can lead to moments where the musical feels compartmentalized into “Crucial Episodes,” resembling a PBS documentary more than a fully immersive theatrical experience.
However,the strength of the production lies in its ensemble. The performers honor the real-life struggles and collaborative spirit of these groundbreaking women. They remind us that progress isn’t always neat or easy, but it is possible through unwavering dedication and collective action.
Plan Your Visit
If you’re looking for an inspiring and thought-provoking theatrical experience,”Suffs” is a solid choice. Here’s what you need to know:
* Where: Hollywood Pantages theatre, 6233 Hollywood Blvd., L.A.
* When: 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturdays, 1 and 6:30 p.m. Sundays (check for exceptions). Runs through December 7th.
* Tickets: Starting at $57 (prices subject to change).
* Contact: BroadwayInHollywood.com or Ticketmaster.com
* Running time: 2 hours, 30 minutes (with one intermission).
“Suffs” isn’t a revolutionary piece of musical theatre, but it’s a respectful and engaging tribute to the women
