An Important and Powerful History Lesson – Suffs National Tour by Henry Halverson

When I saw Chicago and Les Mis this past winter, I was almost uncomfortable by how the shows related so much to today's world, especially with them being written so long ago. I had an idea going in that Suffs would be the same. However, it didn't feel uncomfortable at all;it felt more powerful, sending a message of strength and courage to its audience. It is about the American women's suffrage movement between 1913 and 1920, and the fight for the passage of the 19th Amendment. It specifically follows Alice Paul and her contribution to the movement and her work founding the National Woman's Party.

Maya Keleher’s interpretation of Alice Paul is very impressive. From the very beginning, there is a strange intensity about the character, always trying to work harder, to do the next thing, to keep working towards her goal. As the show goes on, specifically in Act II, you can see her slow down as her character ages and then reflects on her life. Another favorite was Abigail Aziz as Dudley Malone. Aziz’s comedic timing was absolutely outstanding, not only in scenes but in songs like “If We Were Married”.

The highlight of the show was Marya Grandy’s Carrie Chapman Catt. This was a masterclass in both acting and singing. Grandy opens the show with “Let Mother Vote,” a sweet campaign song, showing her ‘good side’, trying to convince men that the mother who raised you should be able to vote. When Alice Paul comes along with a different approach, Grandy's vocal performance shifts from sweet to infused with frustration. “This Girl” is a great example of this loathing. During her performance, you could close your eyes and understand everything Grandy is trying to convey. Likewise, if you plugged your ears, her physical movement and facial expressions tell the whole story. Additionally, Danyel Fulton (Ida B. Wells) had an incredibly powerful performance. 

My only complaint with this show is not the show itself, but this specific production. The book and music by Shaina Taub are great, as proven by Tony wins for Best Book of a Musical and Best Original Score. Act II is definitely tighter than Act I. The music is really good in context, and there are several songs I would listen to, but I would not go out of my way to listen to the soundtrack. The set and lighting design by Christine Peters and Lap Chi Chuby, respectively, do not quite fit the material.

Overall, Suffs is a powerful new musical with a stellar cast. It tells an important story in a way that feels both emotional and inspiring, especially right now. The performances and message stick with you long after the show ends. Catch Suffs at the Orpheum Theatre before it wraps up its Minneapolis run on April 12.