Based on the play by Josefina López that inspired the iconic hit HBO film, with music by Grammy® Award-winning composer Joy Huerta and directed by Tony Award® winner Sergio Trujillo, Real Women Have Curves: The Musical is now a joyous production on Broadway. We chatted with one of the shows stars, Florencia Cuenca, to learn more about this incredible show, her journey to her Broadway debut, and what audiences can expect from Real Women Have Curves: The Musical. Check it out, then get your tickets to see her in Real Women Have Curves: The Musical by visiting the show page at the bottom.
Photo Credit: Stephanie Diani
Share with us a bit about your journey as an actress leading up to this moment.
I was born and raised in Mexico City, and I moved to New York City nine years ago. I came with my husband, Jaime Lozano, for our honeymoon and once we were here, we decided to stay to pursue our dreams in this city. It has been a wild journey trying to find my place as an immigrant actor in this country and this business. From dealing with work visas, green cards, cultural shock, to performing in a new language, having an accent, being a mother, etc. But now I can see that all those challenges that I’ve had have led me to this very special moment.
What does it mean to you to be making your Broadway debut in Real Women Have Curves: The Musical?
I used to fantasize about originating a role, but it seemed like a very impossible dream. There weren’t lead roles for people who looked and sounded like me. I feel beyond proud to be the first Mexican immigrant to originate a co-leading role in a Broadway musical. It can’t get better than this! It’s an honor to represent my community on this stage.
Do you share any similarities with your character, Estela Garcia?
Estela is the eldest sister, a hard-working woman with a big heart and big dreams. At the beginning of the musical, she faces a huge challenge that she decides to take on and she successfully beats it. I feel I went through the same in auditioning for this role, which I worked really hard to land. It hasn’t been an easy path, but I feel so blessed to have my family and community support.
Broadway receives visitors from all around the world, do you think the story of Real Women Have Curves: The Musical will resonate with global audiences?
Real Women Have Curves is about family, dreams, the power of community, being different…No matter where you’re from, anyone can relate with these themes. I have seen that during the whole process, and during the tryouts in American Repertory Theater. People from all backgrounds and from countries all around the world have approached me after performances, really moved by the story, telling me how they connected with the show. It is incredible how this story about a Mexican-American family, about these Mexican immigrants, speaks to everyone. That is the power of storytelling, that is the power of musical theatre.
This story was originally a play, and then a hit film. Why do you think it’s so important it’s now a Broadway musical?
It’s a new medium and a new way to tell this story that now, more than ever, is so important to tell. It is also an opportunity for this beautiful story to reach new audiences. And as I said before, for me, there is nothing as powerful as musical theatre, putting together music and lyrics to serve a story. Not only is the story important, it is also important to have this representation on Broadway. I know a lot of people are going to be inspired because of that.
Do you have a favorite number in the show, and if so, what that number?
I love “Daydream,” a song my character sings in which she’s literally doing just that: daydreaming. It’s really special, because you see Estela’s most intimate thoughts and desires. And I actually relate to that a lot—I’m always daydreaming. I feel like it’s a great way of manifesting what you want. And look: I used to daydream about being on Broadway, and now I’m here!
How do you hope audiences feel after leaving this show?
I would love them to leave the theatre with an open mind and an open heart. Willing to hear and celebrate other cultures. Loving and accepting others—it is so necessary these days.
If someone is visiting New York City and only has time to see one Broadway show, why should it be Real Women Have Curves: The Musical.
It is an honest story about community, about making dreams come true. It is the perfect show to laugh, cry, dance, and celebrate us as human beings. You don’t have to be Latine or Mexican, or Mexican-American, to understand the story and the show. Believe me, this show is for everyone. Come and be part of this community.