Get ready for a thrilling journey into the world of theater and television! The powerful musical 'Suffs' is about to make its way onto PBS' Great Performances, offering a unique glimpse into the fight for women's suffrage.
'Suffs', a Tony-nominated masterpiece by Shaina Taub, may have concluded its Broadway run, but its impact continues to resonate across the nation. Now, it's set to grace PBS screens on May 8 at 9 PM ET, with local listings providing further details. The show will also be available for streaming on PBS.org and the PBS app, ensuring you don't miss a beat.
This musical, which ran on Broadway from March 26, 2024, to January 5, 2025, brings to life the inspiring stories of the women who fought tirelessly for the 19th amendment, granting women the right to vote. Taub's exceptional work earned her two Tony awards for 'Best Book' and 'Best Score', making her the first woman to achieve this remarkable feat independently. The show was directed by the talented Leigh Silverman, and the filmed version, captured by PBS in 2024, features the original Broadway cast, adding an extra layer of authenticity.
The PBS broadcast will showcase an incredible ensemble, including Taub as Alice Paul, Nikki M. James (a Tony winner) as Ida B. Wells, Jenn Colella (a Tony nominee) as Carrie Chapman Catt, and many more talented individuals bringing these historical figures to life. This is a chance to witness history through the lens of art, and it's not to be missed.
But here's where it gets even more exciting: PBS' Great Performances is also set to air another Tony-winning production in May. Kathleen Marshall, the renowned director and choreographer, brings us a fresh revival of Irving Berlin's 'Top Hat', a delightful tale of love and Broadway magic. This show, starring Phillip Attmore and Amara Okereke, will air on May 15 at 9 PM ET and will be available for streaming on PBS platforms. Inspired by the iconic 1935 movie musical, 'Top Hat' features Berlin's timeless classics, including 'Cheek to Cheek' and 'Let's Face the Music and Dance'.
And this is the part most people miss: 'Top Hat' is adapted for the stage by Matthew White and Howard Jacques, and this production has never been seen in the U.S.! It originated in the U.K. and is currently touring, making its PBS broadcast a rare treat for American audiences.
So, mark your calendars, and get ready for these two extraordinary performances on PBS' Great Performances. It's a chance to celebrate the arts, history, and the power of storytelling. Which show are you most excited about? And what impact do you think these performances will have on the world of theater and beyond? Feel free to share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
