Everything in my history classes were always presented in such a clean cut way. I never got a complete picture of many things, especially on the darker side of key points in history. I always knew the 19th amendment was passed and that they marched, but I did not know about the abuse people in power utilized or the feuds within the suffrage movement. Now those stories are coming to light in a revolution called “Suffs.” There is a lot to unpack in this musical, and with that unpacking comes a somewhat overstuffed book filled with a lot of focal points, and highly appealing/relatable characters, that it makes you wonder what or who you need to focus more on. But it doesn’t mean it’s hindering the musical from true success in the slightest. I admire that the book presents everything in a manner that is perfectly digestible and engaging from beginning to end (I cannot tell you how many pieces I’ve seen where the central topic(s) are so at the forefront that they just keep smacking you until you’re out cold and don’t care). The score is a different story; it’s brimming with power, pride, and persistence from every ballad to every march song in a glorious manner that brings the house down with applause that is rightfully deserved. Shaina Taub is gearing up to become the next one that takes Broadway by storm, and lord I hope she does because she’s an undeniably talented writer and actor (she’s a sensational spitfire in the lead position of Alice Paul). Leigh Silverman’s staging has its highs and lows, but it gets the overall message across in a very strong manner that allows you to breathe with ease as this story progresses. And with a dynamite cast including Jenn Colella, Hannah Cruz, Nikki M. James, Grace McLean, and so many more names that would take up the rest of my text who deliver astonishing vocals and driven performances from start to finish, there’s no stopping the revolution taking place at the Music Box Theater. I hope these suffragists “Keep Marching” on Broadway for a long time. Their voices deserve to be heard this season and beyond! “Suffs” is an incredible feat of daring and storytelling. Raise a glass to these G.A.B.’s! (See show to understand)!
