SUFFS Previews- Page 2

[ElephantLoveMedley]

Posted: 3/26/24 at 9:20pm

inlovewithjerryherman said: "I *despised* this at the Public; found it to be self-important, bloated, boring...and occasionally confusing.Phillipa Soo was the sole bright spot. The material was extremely didactic in its approach, andriveting drama that does not make. My expectations going in were sky-high given the pedigree of the team and performers involved,and it was so, so, so disappointing. While I'm sure this Broadway production will offerimprovements, I can't imagine it changing my mind about the show, because in my opinion, its core concept of execution was inherently flawed."

This PERFECTLY encapsulates my feelings about this show. 

[EDSOSLO858]

Posted: 3/26/24 at 11:19pm

Telecharge lists a 2:30 runtime, including intermission. 

How was tonight's first preview?

[bwayboy22]

Posted: 3/27/24 at 12:11am

Truly surprised by all the negativity on here. I was at tonight's first preview and while there's still a lot of work to be done it has so much heart and a cast giving 110% I really believe it can get to where it needs to be through it's preview period.

The first act is the weaker of the two and it feels like a lot of the restructuring done since its run at The Public has been spliced together and it needs to find a way to transition through the story more seamlessly. It took probably half the act for me to feel finally settled in.

The camaraderie (and the tension) between the Suffs is great. I feel like many of the performances have grown deeper since its off-Broadway run. I did miss Phillipa Soo as Inez Millholland, but Hannah Cruz is turning in a strong performance and if the memory of Soo doesn't loom over you from the Public, I can't imagine you being disappointed by Cruz. The standout performers for me were Taub, Colella, Ally Bonino, and Grace McLean. 

The show run's approx. 2 hours and 30 minutes, it started about 10 minutes late tonight and bows happened around 10:40, with a lovely post-show speech acknowledging all the Broadway debuts. I think this could get down to 2 hours 15 minutes with some trimming and restructuring. The only cut I missed from the Public was some of Woodrow Wilson's material. Like I said at the beginning all of the pieces are there it just needs some time to polish and restructure. Even with the needed work, I was really moved by and enjoyed tonight's performance! I look forward to going back.

Updated On: 3/27/24 at 12:11 AM

[Cape Twirl of Doom]

Posted: 3/27/24 at 12:11am

It was OK, but needs some work.

I kept noticing anachronisms that stuck out. Small things that aren’t a big deal to the plot (Babe Ruth was not a famous name in 1913, “Black” wasn’t the term used for people in the 1910s), but since this show is basically a sung Wikipedia article, inaccuracies in one place made me side-eye how well-researched and accurate the whole thing is.

I really did not like the set. It’s so bare and empty with huge wooded doors that slide on and off-stage. There is so much space that goes unused, these massive doors just tower above everyone.

The choice to have women play male characters didn’t really work for me, as all I could picture was that dreadful 1776 revival.

I liked the music, and the actresses harmonizing together sounded amazing. I didn’t realize this was almost a sung-through show. The first act could definitely be tightened up a bit.

Because it was the first preview I can’t really judge the audience response, since it was the typical over-excited and enthusiastic crowd. Great energy but annoying how they kept clapping and cheering over people’s lines.

[Jordan Catalano]

Posted: 3/27/24 at 12:17am

I’m gonna keep saying it until it happens - shows need to start adding “please do not scream” into their preshow announcement. Broadway seriously needs to address that - I can’t even count how many lines I missed tonight because of the screaming. This is Broadway, not a Metallica concert. 

[mmh1019]

Posted: 3/27/24 at 12:20am

I was at the 1st preview tonight, merch was a sash and a sticker. Started maybe 8-10 minutes late, not sure whether it was because of technical issues or seating people. I was in the last row of the mezz and about 8 seats directly in front of me were empty so it wasn't a full house. Jenn Colella got a huge ovation when the curtain came up, it didn't seem like she expected it, sweet moment. Almost every major character got entrance applause which was A. confusing (I didn't see the show at The Public) and B. distracting because some of the actors didn't totally know how to handle it. 

I'd have to agree with the poster who said the show is juggling a LOT of characters and trying to cram them all in (and give them all a "moment" makes the show feel bloated and longer than it needs to be. I wanted to spend less time with Alice & Carrie and more time with Ida B. Wells and Mary Church Terrell (sidenote: I love Anastacia McCluskey so much). Emily Skinner is chewing the scenery as Ava Belmont & Phoebe Burn (her song at the end was a highlight for me, she's a force). So is Grace McLean as Woodrow Wilson. I hope the team takes the preview period to trim the show, it wants to be so many things and that unfocused tone takes away from what are some really powerful stories. Keep Marching ends the show on a high note, not all the songs work but that one is a winner for me.

They brought out all the swings/stage management/dressers/behind the scenes folks after the bows. They also called forward everyone making their Broadway debut (about half the cast, very cool). They clearly are passionate about the show and it was sobering to hear them on the 1st night of previews say "tell your friends, tell them to tell their friends," didn't give me a ton of faith for the selling power of the show but I'm glad I was there.

Updated On: 3/27/24 at 12:20 AM

[hearthemsing22]

Posted: 3/27/24 at 11:55am

Jordan Catalano said: "I’m gonna keep saying it until it happens - shows need to start adding “please do not scream” into their preshow announcement. Broadway seriously needs to address that - I can’t even count how many lines I missed tonight because of the screaming. This is Broadway, not a Metallica concert."

I would like to add--
Please do not scream. Avoid singing along unless specifically at a sing along performance. Avoid saying the lines along with the performers. 

[ErmengardeStopSniveling]

Posted: 3/27/24 at 12:13pm

hearthemsing22 said: "Jordan Catalano said: "I’m gonna keep saying it until it happens - shows need to start adding “please do not scream” into their preshow announcement. Broadway seriously needs to address that - I can’t even count how many lines I missed tonight because of the screaming. This is Broadway, not a Metallica concert."

I would like to add--
Please do not scream. Avoid singing along unless specifically at a sing along performance. Avoid saying the lines along with the performers."


I've found this only happens during very early previews. The diehards are gone after the first couple perfs.

[ErmengardeStopSniveling]

Posted: 3/27/24 at 12:28pm

Cape Twirl of Doom said: "I kept noticing anachronisms that stuck out. Small things that aren’t a big deal to the plot (Babe Ruth was not a famous name in 1913, “Black” wasn’t the term used for people in the 1910s), but since this show is basically a sung Wikipedia article, inaccuracies in one place made me side-eye how well-researched and accurate the whole thing is."

Can't speak to these specific moments because I don't remember how it was at the Public, but I think you have to forgive anachronisms when a show takes liberty with the race of the performers, the style of the music, etc. In the same way that Anna and the King would probably not be finding romance while dancing a polka, and the founding fathers are not rapping men of color. Most viewers will not notice or will simply accept the "rule" laid out by the writer/director. Writers find shorthands to pull the audience along.

That being said, referring to people of color with a gentle, contemporary word (Black) may be a thesis for this show trying to have its cake and eat it too when trying to shoehorn in the struggles of Black suffragists while sanding down some of the edges of the white characters.

Updated On: 3/27/24 at 12:28 PM

[FANtomFollies]

Posted: 3/27/24 at 12:36pm

ErmengardeStopSniveling said: "I've found this only happens during very early previews. The diehards are gone after the first couple perfs."

You obviously weren't at the Sweeney Todd performance I saw that was 3 months after the show opened. The girls behind me were screaming at basically anything remotely gory or funny. Completely ruined the show for me. I agree it needs to be in the opening announcement as well as enforced by ushers. People need to be educated on how to be an audience member.

[kidmanboy]

Posted: 3/27/24 at 12:51pm

When I attended a performance of The Notebook mid-way through previews, the young lady behind me sang along with every song.  I have no clue how she knew the music so well so early into the run.  it was horribly distracting.

[Ptero2]

Posted: 3/27/24 at 11:05pm

Had zero expectations and ended up really loving this. Put Hannah Cruz in everything please.

[hearthemsing22]

Posted: 3/28/24 at 8:53am

Saw the show last night. I truly think Hannah Cruz is a standout, but the cast really is wonderful. However

 

 

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I am very disappointed that they changed the ending. The final tableau with the "young are at the gates" was so incredibly moving and powerful. I hope they consider putting that back in. 

 

[gibsons2]

Posted: 3/28/24 at 9:02am

hearthemsing22 said: "Saw the show last night. I truly think Hannah Cruz is a standout, but the cast really is wonderful. However
 

 

Click Here To Toggle Spoiler Content

I am very disappointed that they changed the ending. The final tableau with the "young are at the gates" was so incredibly moving and powerful. I hope they consider putting that back in.

"

 

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I was at the same performance too. What was up with the horse prop missing a head and basically a half of the body? I hope it's a temporary malfunction.

 

[berniesb!tch]

Posted: 3/28/24 at 9:07am

I saw the show last night and did not know what to expect based on the reviews from off broadway. 

I thought the show was okay, at times good. Shaina Taub has written some gorgeous music and the cast is singing the hell out of it. The show was at its best when it was about the Black Suffragists (Nikki m James is such a damn good actor) and they were simply the secondary storyline. I thought the show was dragged down when it tried to be funny. Maybe it's a generational thing because the audience around me seemed to really enjoy the comedic moments, but I found most of them to be kind of cringy. This show is historical, but the politics of the show, as well as most things on Broadway, felt stuck in 2016. I think we need to expect more from shows about social issues besides "The fight is hard, but we will keep fighting!". It's a true sentiment, but not as powerful for me when it feels like a rehash and less nuanced version of a lot of shows about social justice issues. 

Overall I am glad I saw it, and the audience around me seemed to love it (granted it was the second preview so I'm sure it was a lot of friends and big fans of the show), so I think this has a chance of finding an audience. 

[ACL2006]

Posted: 3/28/24 at 9:10am

Jenn Collela has a diehard fan base. Not surprised they were there last night. I dealt with them when she was in Come From Away. Does SUFFS offer in person rush/lotto? The Collela fans would frequently rotate in and out of the Come From Away rush/SRO line during the show's first year on Bway and snag most of the tickets.

[hearthemsing22]

Posted: 3/28/24 at 9:28am

gibsons2 said: "hearthemsing22 said: "Saw the show last night. I truly think Hannah Cruz is a standout, but the cast really is wonderful. However

 

Click Here To Toggle Spoiler Content

I am very disappointed that they changed the ending. The final tableau with the "young are at the gates" was so incredibly moving and powerful. I hope they consider putting that back in.

"

 

Click Here To Toggle Spoiler Content

I was at the same performance too. What was up with thehorse prop missing ahead and basically a half of the body? I hope it's a temporary malfunction.

"

 

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That's a great question and I hope you're right, otherwise it's....certainly a choice! HA 

 

[Jordan Catalano]

Posted: 3/28/24 at 12:46pm

I really do like this show and I'm happy others are finding it and enjoying it, as well. For all the praise certain performers are getting, I want to single out Ally Bonino as Lucy Burns. She's so crazy talented and I had forgotten just how much I loved her in the role. 

[MsPiety&Rectitude]

Posted: 3/28/24 at 1:53pm

Jordan Catalano said: "I really do like this show and I'm happy others are finding it and enjoying it, as well. For all the praise certain performers are getting, I want to single outAlly Bonino as Lucy Burns. She's so crazy talented and I had forgotten just how much I loved her in the role."

Ally was a highlight for me at the Public – she brings so much heart to the show. And an absolutely beautiful voice! Hoping her number toward the end is still in the show, that was the moment I found most touching.

[berniesb!tch]

Posted: 3/28/24 at 2:02pm

Jordan Catalano said: "I really do like this show and I'm happy others are finding it and enjoying it, as well. For all the praise certain performers are getting, I want to single outAlly Bonino as Lucy Burns. She's so crazy talented and I had forgotten just how much I loved her in the role."

Agreed - she was great! 

[Jordan Catalano]

Posted: 3/28/24 at 2:16pm

MsPiety&Rectitude said: "Jordan Catalano said: "I really do like this show and I'm happy others are finding it and enjoying it, as well. For all the praise certain performers are getting, I want to single outAlly Bonino as Lucy Burns. She's so crazy talented and I had forgotten just how much I loved her in the role."

Ally wasa highlight forme at the Public– she brings so muchheart to the show. And an absolutely beautiful voice! Hoping her number toward the end is still in the show, that was the moment I found most touching."

Oh yes, it’s still there. It’s one of my favorite songs in the show and I think hits home a really important message they try to get to - that in the long fight for justice - any justice - it’s not only important but it’s OK to pass the baton and that it doesn’t make what you accomplished any less important if you step aside to do so. 

[DaveyG]

Posted: 3/28/24 at 2:59pm

I saw this at the Public and I think they made some solid improvements to Act 1, but Act 2 still felt unfocused and slow. I also found a lot of the attempted humor to be cringey, but the audience seemed to enjoy it. 

The score is a mixed bag. There are some thrilling moments, especially when the full company is singing together. But the recitatives and mid-tempo ballads get tiring after a while. 

Not high praise, but I definitely preferred Suffs over Lempicka. 

Updated On: 3/28/24 at 02:59 PM

[hearthemsing22]

Posted: 3/28/24 at 3:23pm

DaveyG said: "I saw this at the Public and I think they made some solid improvements toAct 1, but Act 2still felt unfocused and slow. I also found a lot of the attempted humor to be cringey, but the audience seemed to enjoy it.

The score is a mixed bag. There are some thrilling moments, especially when the full company is singing together. But the recitatives and mid-tempo ballads get tiring after a while.

Not high praise, but I definitely preferred SuffsoverLempicka."

Unfortunately I feel the same way about Suffs vs Lempicka. I didn't come away with a lot of songs that I truly liked from Lempicka, but Suffs...Cast recording asap please 

[Dylan Smith4]

Posted: 3/29/24 at 12:21am

Back from the third preview. I have no words! As a history buff, I can say that this is a show that we need on stage now more than ever! Taub has really outdone herself with this and I hope more people will get the chance to see this beautiful musical! There were a couple technical problems, not bad to stop the show, but noticeable but I’m sure they will get fixed as they continue their previews. I’ll post further thoughts tomorrow but again, this shown has potential! Just hoping it will find the audience it deserves! March your way to the Music Box and go see Suffs!!

[rosscoe(au)]

Posted: 3/29/24 at 2:11am

ErmengardeStopSniveling said: "hearthemsing22 said: "Jordan Catalano said: "I’m gonna keep saying it until it happens - shows need to start adding “please do not scream” into their preshow announcement. Broadway seriously needs to address that - I can’t even count how many lines I missed tonight because of the screaming. This is Broadway, not a Metallica concert."

I would like to add--
Please do not scream. Avoid singing along unless specifically at a sing along performance. Avoid saying the lines along with the performers."


I've found this only happens during very early previews. The diehards are gone after the first couple perfs."


Sadly no where near true, Saw Hamilton in Australia about four months into its Sydney season and had the worst human sitting behind me, she screamed, started laughing befor jokes, sang along, clapped loudly before everyone else. I walked out hating the show and her even more. 
 

I wish we just went back to watching clapping and given a standing ovation when it was worth it.