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Real Women Have Curves: The Musical’ Opens to Critical Acclaim on Broadway

The adaptation of Josefina López’s play celebrates Latina voices while addressing immigration, family, and body positivity in 1987 East L.A.

Overview

  • The musical debuted at the James Earl Jones Theatre on April 28, 2025, following its 2023 premiere at the American Repertory Theater.
  • Directed and choreographed by Sergio Trujillo, it features a book by Lisa Loomer and Nell Benjamin, with music and lyrics by Joy Huerta and Benjamin Velez.
  • The story follows eight Latina seamstresses, most of whom are undocumented, as they navigate personal dreams, family obligations, and Reagan-era immigration policies.
  • A standout scene where the cast embraces body positivity earned a mid-show standing ovation from the audience.
  • Critics praise the production’s humor, emotional depth, and timely exploration of immigration, though some note uneven execution in parts of the narrative and score.