maybe ally...sees Real Women Have Curves: The Musical
Last night, I found myself comfortably seated in a luxurious velvet Broadway seat, where I had the unique opportunity to witness not just a performance, but a reflection of my own life. The vibrant production brought to life the essence of myself, my cherished mother, and every remarkable woman I’ve ever loved, all beautifully expressed through song, dynamic movement, and the authenticity of stretch marks that tell their own stories. Each note resonated, evoking a deep sense of connection and nostalgia.
Real Women Have Curves: The Musical is everything the title promises — and more. It’s loud and tender, joyful and aching, funny and deeply honest. Based on the beloved 2002 film, the show follows Ana, a Mexican-American teen growing up in Los Angeles with dreams of becoming a writer. But the heart of the story lives in the sewing factory where Ana, her mother, and a crew of fierce mujeres stitch together clothes — and their lives.
The music is vibrant, earthy, and rich with Latin rhythm. Cumbias, boleros, and sharp bursts of Broadway brilliance make up the soundtrack of Ana’s coming-of-age. Every number feels like a celebration and a protest: of expectations, of silence, of shame.
But the show’s most powerful moment — and the one that will stay with me forever — comes in act two. A scene where the women in the factory begin undressing. They talk about their bodies. The rolls. The scars. The parts we’re told to hide or fix. It’s vulnerable, it’s unpolished, and it’s perfect. They strip down in defiance — not to be sexy, but to be seen. And in that moment, I saw myself.
As a Latina living in NYC, as a daughter of immigrants, as someone who’s been taught to shrink and smooth and stay quiet — this show cracked something open. I didn’t leave the theater thinking, “what a nice night out.” I left thinking, this is why we tell stories.
There are little things that could be finessed — a few transitions that felt abrupt, a scene or two that could’ve stretched a little deeper. But honestly? It doesn’t need to be perfect. This show isn’t about polish. It’s about pride.
Final Thoughts
"Real Women Have Curves" is a must-see film that resonates on many levels. Take your mom along for a heartwarming experience. Bring your girls for an empowering day out. Consider inviting the version of yourself who once believed she had to earn the right to take up space in this world. After sitting through this inspiring film, you will leave that theater walking a little taller, with your head held high and a renewed sense of confidence and strength.
✨
— ally
maybeally.com
Last night, I found myself comfortably seated in a luxurious velvet Broadway seat, where I had the unique opportunity to witness not just a performance, but a reflection of my own life. The vibrant production brought to life the essence of myself, my cherished mother, and every remarkable woman I’ve ever loved, all beautifully expressed through song, dynamic movement, and the authenticity of stretch marks that tell their own stories. Each note resonated, evoking a deep sense of connection and nostalgia.