Before seeing Suffs, I had looked up a synopsis so I could have an idea of what kind of show I was seeing. When I saw the play, however, it was much more exciting than I had anticipated. The energy kicked in from the opening number with Alice Paul, the main protagonist. Paul’s relentless drive made her a powerful leader but also, at times, difficult to fully empathize with due to her “get it done” attitude. This tension is reflected in Carrie Chapman Catt’s character, who represents a more cautious, gradual approach, highlighting the different strategies within the movement. Their exchanges brought out the ideological divides that shaped the fight for women’s voting rights. The ensemble cast, which features a fully female cast, is something I did not anticipate but enjoyed. Grace McLean did an excellent job of portraying President Wilson, especially emphasizing his stubbornness and inability to advocate for women’s rights. The roles of Ida B. Wells and Mary Church Terrell, in particular, emphasized the racial divides in the movement, reminding us that this was not a monolithic struggle. Wells’s portrayal especially stood out, making her call for the inclusion of black women’s voices in the fight for justice feel urgent and relevant.

The musical numbers added depth to the play, from songs like “Finish the Fight” to satirical pieces like “Great American Bitch” which gave me goosebumps when seeing the play live. These songs capture the energy and stakes of the movement, with each performance drawing the audience deeper into the story. The set design and costumes effectively evoke the early 1900s, while modern touches in the dialogue and music make the story feel current. Seeing Suffs live made me think about how social movements navigate differences in strategy, values, and inclusion—issues still relevant today. By showing these suffragists their strengths and flaws, Suffs brings them to life as real people facing complex challenges. It left me reflecting on how history is often shaped by determined individuals who may not be perfect heroes but are persistent in their fight for change.