By Katrina “Kat” Reynolds
SUFFS presented by Broadway in Cincinnati through May 17th. I attended the Opening Night performance.
The Cast of SUFFS presented by Broadway in Cincinnati. Photo by Joan Marcus.
As a 2025-2026 Broadway in Cincinnati season option, the Aronoff Center is presenting SUFFS with Book, Music, & Lyrics by Shaina Taub. The Tony Award-winning musical gives an inside, more personal look at the women who helped drive the fight for the right to vote.
Director Leigh Silverman masterfully takes the helm of this strong ensemble piece by producing many stunning stage pictures and setting up excellent pacing. Ms. Silverman allows for individual moments when appropriate while still keeping the spirit of camaraderie constant. Choreographer Mayte Natalio has an incredible gift for movement, even with a large cast on a smaller stage than other cities may offer. Gavotting is seamless and natural, but remains impactful. Tour Scenic Design by Christine Peters appears opulent and reads as wonderfully functional for the performing artists. Ms. Peters incorporation of the “key colours” (purple, white, and yellow for those who may not know) is done smartly and pops against the time-period appropriate darker aspects of the set.
In an piece written to empower women and educate all, do you include men in on the bit? Well…sort of – but you have the women portray them, of course! This all-female cast is the definition of an ensemble and choosing standouts is a tall order. Every vocalist is top-notch, mastering perfectly blended harmonies like it’s just another day at the office and their acting is superb.
Monica Tulia Ramirez is nothing short of perfection as Inez Milholland. You will either wish you could be like her or be with her – or both, in my case. Danyel Fulton as Ida B. Wells is a show-stopper. The audience is left suitably uncomfortable and on the edge of their seats from the first to the last words of “Wait My Turn” thanks to Ms. Fulton’s incredible vocal talent and acting prowess. Additional kudos to Jenny Ashman as Woodrow Wilson; Marya Grandy as Carrie Champman Catt; and Maya Keleher as Alice Paul.
Most of you probably know that, in general, I am not a huge fan of musicals. Sure, there are exceptions – and I will say without any pretense that SUFFS is one of those exceptions and has easily become one of my top three favourites. In fact, this particular performance is on the top list of best shows of any kind I’ve ever seen, full stop. It is original, informative, rife with talent, and just plain entertaining. The music will stick with you long after you leave the theatre and the reminder of how obstacles once deemed insurmountable have been overcome is necessary. I will personally be making the effort to see this show any time it comes through.
Click here for more information about the production.
Behind the Curtain Cincinnati 