Women have always been essential to the theatre, both on and off the stage. Their voices, perspectives, and experiences enrich Broadway, making it a more dynamic place. The spring season promises a stellar lineup of shows featuring strong female leads, and we can't wait to see these incredible women take center stage.
Shaina Taub: A Multifaceted Powerhouse
Shaina Taub, an actress, composer, and lyricist, is stepping into the spotlight this spring, taking on the role of Alice Paul in her original musical, Suffs. Taub is a versatile artist with a number of theatre credits to her name, including Twelfth Night and As You Like It, both of which she adapted for the Public Theater's public works program. With Suffs, Taub serves not only as one of the leading ladies but also as the creator, having penned the book, music, and lyrics for the show.
Alice Paul's character is a significant one, not just within the context of Suffs but also in the larger narrative of women's rights. A key figure in the women's suffrage movement in the United States, Paul fought for women's right to vote in the early 20th century. Taub's portrayal is poised to be a powerful testament to the resilience and determination of women who have defied conventions and challenged the status quo.
The Cast of SIX: A Royal Display of Talent
A revolutionary twist on history, SIX is another Broadway production that's putting women at the forefront. The musical reimagines the lives of Henry VIII's six wives as a pop concert, transforming these historical figures from mere footnotes in a history book into complex personalities with voices of their own. Brought to life by an all-female cast, the queens take center stage to share their stories in a pop-concert format.
The cast of queens in SIX comprises a talented roster of actresses, each of whom brings a unique energy and character to her role. Khaila Wilcoxon plays Henry’s first wife, Catherine of Aragon, and Storm Lever, who previously starred in Summer: The Donna Summer Musical, plays the infamous Anne Boleyn. Jasmine Forsberg, seen on Broadway in Here Lies Love, takes on the role of Jane Seymour. Meanwhile, Olivia Donalson, who showcased her talent in Broadway’s Aladdin, steps into the shoes of Anne of Cleves, and Didi Romero plays Katherine Howard, the young, vivacious fifth wife of Henry VIII. Making her Broadway debut is Gabriela Carrillo as Catherine Parr, the sixth and final wife.
The current cast of SIX are no strangers to the story of the six wives of Henry VIII, as these actresses were originally part of the North American Aragon Tour of the show. This allowed them to connect with their roles and strengthen the chemistry between them, making for a smooth transition to Broadway.
Eden Espinosa: A Vivid Portrayal of Tamara de Lempicka
Eden Espinosa is a seasoned performer with a powerful voice and a presence that commands the stage in the title role of the new musical Lempicka. Espinosa is not new to Broadway, having dazzled audiences with her performances in Wicked, Rent, and Brooklyn the Musical. She brings a wealth of experience to her portrayal of Lempicka, a role that promises to showcase her talents.
Tamara de Lempicka was a Polish painter known for her bold Art Deco style, as well as a woman who challenged societal norms and expectations during her lifetime. She moved in avant-garde circles, lived life on her own terms, and, through her art, left a lasting impact on the world. Her life was as complex and intriguing as her paintings, and it's this life that Lempicka seeks to explore.
Lorna Courtney as Juliet: A Fresh Take on a Classic Character
Lorna Courtney, a rising star in the world of theatre, has taken up one of the most iconic roles in literature: Juliet Capulet. Having already shown her talents in productions such as Dear Evan Hansen and West Side Story, Courtney is well-equipped to bring a fresh perspective to this timeless character with her role in & Juliet.
This show is not your typical adaptation of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. In this version, Juliet gets a second chance at life after Romeo's death. Instead of meeting a tragic end, she embarks on a journey of growing up and finding herself, putting Juliet at the center of her own narrative.
Mary Kate Morrissey and Alexandra Socha in Wicked: Bringing New Life to Iconic Roles
Mary Kate Morrissey and Alexandra Socha, two actresses with strong resumes in the world of theatre, are set to take on the roles of Elphaba and Glinda in the long-running Broadway musical Wicked. Morrissey, known for her work on shows like Mean Girls and Hair, will step into the role of the green-skinned witch Elphaba. Meanwhile, Socha, who has demonstrated her acting skills in shows like Fun Home and Head Over Heels, will bring Glinda to life.
Wicked offers an alternative perspective on L. Frank Baum's The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, focusing on the unlikely friendship between Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, the Good Witch of the North. The musical explores themes of friendship, societal expectations, self-acceptance, and the nature of good and evil, all through the lens of these two compelling female characters.
Elphaba is a character who defies expectations. Misunderstood and judged because of her green skin, Elphaba challenges the status quo and stands up for what she believes in. On the other hand, Glinda starts off as the stereotypical popular girl, loved and admired by all. Yet, as the story unfolds, we see Glinda evolve and learn valuable lessons. Morrissey and Socha promise to continue the legacy of Wicked, bringing to life two of Broadway's most beloved female characters.
Maleah Joi Moon as Ali in Hell's Kitchen: A Debut to Remember
Maleah Joi Moon, a new face on the Broadway scene, is set to make her mark this spring as Ali in the new musical Hell's Kitchen. Moon has demonstrated their acting and singing prowess in a variety of regional productions. Now, they are making their Broadway debut in Hell's Kitchen, a show inspired by the experiences of singer Alicia Keys.
Hell's Kitchen offers a multi-layered narrative about the lives and dreams of people living in one of New York's most famous neighborhoods. Moon's character, Ali, is the emotional core of the narrative, navigating her way through life, grappling with her aspirations, relationships, and the challenges of living in New York City.
Now that you’re up to speed on the powerhouse leading ladies this season, it’s time to make a date to see them perform on the greatest stage in the world. Let's ensure that these stories continue to be told, these voices continue to be heard, and that the stage continues to be a platform for diverse women - both fictional and real. Get your tickets, take your seats, and get ready to meet the reigning queens of Broadway.