Suffs at Playhouse Square Encourages Audiences To Keep Marching

The musical about the women's suffrage movement resonates with modern audiences.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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The musical 'Suffs,' which tells the story of the women's suffrage movement, is currently running at Playhouse Square in Cleveland. The show, with music, lyrics and a book by Shaina Taub, follows the efforts of activists like Alice Paul and Carrie Chapman Catt to secure voting rights for women. Despite being written only a few years ago, the show's message feels particularly relevant in 2026 as audiences are encouraged to continue the fight for equality.

Why it matters

The musical's themes of the ongoing struggle for equal rights and the need to keep marching forward resonate with modern audiences, especially in the wake of events like the overturning of Roe v. Wade. 'Suffs' serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and challenges faced by the suffragists, as well as the work that still needs to be done to achieve true equality.

The details

The show follows the efforts of Alice Paul, Lucy Burns, and other activists as they organize a march in Washington, D.C. on the day of President Woodrow Wilson's inauguration. Along the way, they must overcome a president who refuses to support their movement, infighting within the movement, and issues of racial inclusion. The musical utilizes a large number of songs to tell these stories, with standout performances from the cast.

  • The show premiered off-Broadway at The Public Theater in April 2022, just months before the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.
  • It opened on Broadway two years later and launched a National Tour in 2025.
  • The Playhouse Square production in Cleveland runs through February 22, 2026.

The players

Shaina Taub

The writer of 'Suffs,' responsible for the music, lyrics, and book.

Alice Paul

A young, ambitious activist who organizes a march in Washington, D.C. to advocate for women's suffrage.

Carrie Chapman Catt

The president of the National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA), who delivers a speech advocating for women's suffrage.

Woodrow Wilson

The President of the United States, who refuses to publicly support the women's suffrage movement.

Ida B. Wells

A Black activist featured in the musical.

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What they’re saying

“Despite being written only a few years back, the show is in many ways a good, old-fashioned musical. It follows a tried and true structure and utilizes common platitudes of musical theater. While it may feel familiar, the relevance of 'Suff's' messaging combined with talented performances makes for a solid, entertaining show that will resonate with multiple audiences–it is difficult to imagine that even those who are not active in political or social issues will walk away uninspired.”

— Gwendolyn Kochur, Author (clevescene.com)

“When it comes to production values, the costuming by Paul Tazewell takes precedence: meticulous detail adorns the shapely bodices, full skirts and colorful sashes worn by the suffragists.”

— Gwendolyn Kochur, Author (clevescene.com)

What’s next

The show is scheduled to continue its national tour, with upcoming stops in other cities across the country.

The takeaway

The musical 'Suffs' serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for equality, inspiring audiences to continue marching forward and advocating for the rights that the suffragists fought so hard to secure.