Real Women Have Curves: Broadway Debut Shines Light on Latina Voices

By United Mundos Staff April 28, 2025

Broadway is getting a powerful dose of Latina storytelling.

Real Women Have Curves: The Musical opened this weekend at the James Earl Jones Theatre in New York City, bringing Josefina López's beloved coming-of-age story to the stage in a fresh, musical adaptation.

Set in 1987 in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles, the show follows Ana García, a first-generation Mexican-American teenager balancing dreams of college with family expectations at her mother's garment factory. It’s a story rooted in resilience, body positivity, and immigrant identity — themes that resonate deeply with audiences today.

The production proudly features a powerhouse Latina cast and creative team:

• Tatianna Córdoba leads as Ana, capturing the heart and ambition of a young woman finding her voice.

• Justina Machado (One Day at a Time) plays Ana’s mother, Carmen, with depth and emotional complexity.

• Florencia Cuenca, Sandra Valls, and Aline Mayagoitia round out the ensemble, highlighting the strength and humor within Latina sisterhood.

• Direction and choreography come from Tony Award-winner Sergio Trujillo, with original music by Grammy winner Joy Huerta and composer Benjamin Velez.

"This show is about seeing real people — women who aren't always celebrated on stage — finally take center spotlight," said director Sergio Trujillo in interviews.

Audiences and critics are praising Real Women Have Curves for its infectious spirit, emotional honesty, and its unapologetic celebration of working-class Latina women.

Performances run through the summer at the James Earl Jones Theatre. Tickets are available via realwomenhavecurvesbroadway.com.

Sources:

• Playbill

• Broadway Direct