Posted: 11/16/25 at 2:57pm
Apologies for taking a week since the production closed to write this, but I wanted to chime in with a few more thoughts.
I saw this production a total of 6 times, including first preview and the closing performance. I stand by the thoughts that I posted in this thread after seeing the first preview.
I remain steadfast in my assessment that it's a first-rate production and I dearly hope that the transfer happens. I echo a lot of everythingtaboo and DottieD'Luscia's thoughts - notably the fact that Ana Villafane's performance grew tremendously throughout the run. I liked her from the beginning, but by the end of the run I could absolutely tell that she had fine-tuned certain moments, she was more present, and really gave a "wow" performance that wasn't quite there in the beginning. Rob McClure and Jordan Donica were both giving a Tony-worthy performance. Bryonha Marie as well - she turned a relatively thankless role into something incredibly special. All three were absolutely spectacular and had the crowds on their feet.
What a hard-working, talented ensemble as well. Trujillo's choreography is NOT easy and this cast executed every beat, every move perfectly each time.
I was delighted to see that sales seemed to pick up as the run went on - the first couple of performances that I attended were maybe 3/4 full, but by the end they were offering standing room because the performances were selling out. The rave review in the Washington Post, as well as raves in other publications - plus extremely positive word of mouth (the word of mouth in the DC theatre community and beyond was excellent for this production) seemed to really help.
I wish I could've seen this production 6 more times. It was full of so much joy and I left with a huge smile on my face each time. I can't wait to see it on Broadway next year.
