Pasadena Playhouse, one of the nation’s most celebrated regional theaters, will bring Josefina López’s groundbreaking musical Real Women Have Curves to Los Angeles for its post-Broadway debut as part of the 2026–27 season. The production marks a significant moment for both the theater and the story of Ana García, a young undocumented Mexican immigrant navigating the challenges of work, family, and self-discovery in 1987 Boyle Heights. Originally a play and later a critically acclaimed film starring America Ferrera, the musical adaptation—with book by Lisa Loomer with Nell Benjamin, music and lyrics by Joy Huerta and Benjamin Velez—premiered on Broadway in April 2025, earning praise for its powerful storytelling and vibrant score.
For Pasadena Playhouse, the announcement of Real Women Have Curves as a centerpiece of next season’s lineup underscores the theater’s commitment to bold, socially resonant productions. Producing Artistic Director Danny Feldman has described the 2026–27 season as “bigger than our Sondheim season,” a reference to the theater’s landmark 2022–23 season, which featured a six-month celebration of Stephen Sondheim’s work, including productions of Sunday in the Park with George and A Little Night Music. The upcoming season also promises a mix of revivals, world premieres, and family-friendly offerings, though details beyond Real Women Have Curves remain under development.
The musical’s journey from López’s personal diary to the Broadway stage reflects a decades-long effort to amplify the voices of immigrant women and working-class communities. Set in Boyle Heights, the story resonates deeply with the theater’s own roots in Los Angeles and its mission to reflect the diversity and struggles of the region. Pasadena Playhouse’s production will be the first to bring the musical to the West Coast after its Broadway run, offering local audiences a chance to experience its emotional depth and cultural significance.
The Story Behind the Musical
Real Women Have Curves traces its origins to Josefina López’s experiences as a young woman working in a Los Angeles garment factory. Her one-woman play, which premiered in 1997, was inspired by her own diary entries and those of her mother, Carmen, who also worked in the industry. The play’s raw, unflinching portrayal of immigrant life and female solidarity struck a chord, leading to a 2002 film adaptation and, most recently, the musical version. The Broadway production, which opened at the James Earl Jones Theatre in April 2025, was celebrated for its authentic representation of Boyle Heights and its celebration of the resilience of immigrant women.
The musical’s creative team, including director Sergio Trivino and choreographer Alex Lacamoire, has emphasized the importance of staying true to the source material while expanding its emotional and musical scope. The score, blending Latin rhythms with contemporary pop, underscores the characters’ struggles and triumphs, making it a standout in the current musical theater landscape.
Why Pasadena Playhouse?
Pasadena Playhouse has long been a leader in presenting works that challenge, inspire, and reflect the cultural fabric of Southern California. The theater’s decision to mount Real Women Have Curves aligns with its history of producing world premieres and revivals that resonate with local audiences. The 2026–27 season is poised to build on this legacy, with Feldman hinting at a lineup that will be both ambitious and diverse.
For theatergoers, the production offers more than just entertainment. it provides a rare opportunity to engage with a story that has shaped the cultural and political landscape of Los Angeles. The musical’s themes of identity, labor, and community are as relevant today as they were when López first put pen to paper. Pasadena Playhouse’s production is expected to draw audiences eager to witness this important work live on stage.
What’s Next?
While Pasadena Playhouse has not yet released a full schedule for the 2026–27 season, the inclusion of Real Women Have Curves signals a commitment to storytelling that matters. Fans and press are advised to monitor the theater’s official website and press releases for updates on casting, rehearsal timelines, and ticket sales. The production is anticipated to premiere in the fall of 2026, following the theater’s traditional season schedule.
For those interested in experiencing the musical before its Pasadena debut, tickets for performances at the James Earl Jones Theatre in New York remain available for select dates, though the Broadway run has concluded. The Pasadena Playhouse production will be the first opportunity for West Coast audiences to see the full musical in its entirety.
As Pasadena Playhouse prepares to welcome Real Women Have Curves to its stage, the theater invites the community to be part of the conversation. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the musical, a resident of Boyle Heights, or simply someone who appreciates powerful storytelling, this production promises to be a must-see event. Share your thoughts on social media using the hashtag #RWHCPasadena, and stay tuned for official announcements as the season approaches.
