Real Women Have Curves musical to debut on Broadway in 2024
- A musical adaptation of 'Real Women Have Curves' will debut on Broadway in 2025, following its initial staging at the American Repertory Theater in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
- The story, set in 1987 Los Angeles, centers on an 18-year-old woman navigating her responsibilities at a family garment factory versus her desire to attend Columbia University.
- The production aims to address themes of immigration and body image, with mixed critical reception, and is being produced by notable figures in the Broadway community.
The upcoming Broadway musical adaptation of 'Real Women Have Curves' is set to premiere in 2025, following its successful initial run at the American Repertory Theater in Cambridge, Massachusetts, last winter. This adaptation is based on Josefina López's narrative, which has evolved from a play first staged in 1990 to a film in 2002, starring America Ferrera. The musical is directed and choreographed by Sergio Trujillo, featuring music and lyrics by Joy Huerta and Benjamin Velez, alongside a book by Lisa Loomer and additional material by Nell Benjamin. Set in the Boyle Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles in 1987, the story focuses on an 18-year-old woman who faces a significant life choice: to remain at home and work in her family's garment factory or to pursue her dreams by moving to New York to attend Columbia University. This narrative not only highlights the immigrant experience but also delves into issues surrounding body image, making it relevant to contemporary audiences. The production has garnered mixed reviews, with some critics praising its outstanding qualities while others have found it lacking in execution. The Broadway run is being produced by Barry and Fran Weissler, known for their work on the long-running revival of 'Chicago,' and actor Jack Noseworthy, who is married to Trujillo. With a capitalization of $16.5 million, the producers have not yet confirmed the exact opening date within the 2025 season, leaving audiences eager for more information. The anticipation surrounding this musical reflects a growing interest in stories that resonate with diverse experiences and challenges faced by women today.