Well-Behaved Women Rarely Make History: A Celebration of Powerful Women Through Song

THE BASICS: WELL-BEHAVED WOMEN runs June 7 through June 16, Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m., at the MusicalFare Theater, 4380 Main Street, Suite 123 Amherst, NY 14226 (716) 839-8540. Click here for tickets.

DURATION: 75 minutes, no intermission

Miniature sketch: You probably know the saying “Well-bred women rarely make history.” This musical cabaret is a tribute to 20 of the world’s most famous “misbehaves” and the history they made. With clever lyrics throughout the show, you’ll be sure to laugh, dance and feel comforted throughout, but you may also learn a thing or two about women you already knew, or learn more about someone ‘one again for you.

THE PLAYERS, THE PLAY AND THE PRODUCTION:

Powerful. It’s the word I would use to describe all the women on stage (including the talented and fashionable pianist Theresa Quinn) as well as the women they represent and whose stories they tell through song. Starring Leah Berst, Sam Crystal, Timiyah Love and Brittney Leigh Morton.

We are first introduced to a sassy Eve, yes the one from the story with Adam, to whom she sings about how maybe eating the apple is why God decided that women would face more difficulties than men, and she apologizes.

Most of the women featured on this show are people I know or have at least heard of, but I still learned a lot of new things about them as well as other iconic women I didn’t know Already. Some songs were moving and moving, but many were comedic and clever with their lyrics.

Everyone seemed to be having fun with the song about Eleanor Roosevelt, “Ladies of the Press,” performed by Leah Berst, as well as the song about Billie Jean King, “Hey, Bobby Rigs,” performed by Brittney Leigh Morton. The song about Frida Kahlo, “Yo Simplemente Soy” or “I Simply Am,” was sung with confidence and beauty by Sam Crystal, giving a very moving performance.

Another moving performance was about Janet Armstrong and the sacrifices she made for her husband Neil Armstrong to be the first man on the moon. It was sad to learn for the first time that they had lost a young child and the impact it had on her and her family, but it was still a beautiful and moving song.

But my favorite song was about Cleopatra: the feminine rage and passion conveyed by Timiyah Love made it a moving song with a powerful ending. I just wish Love’s mic was a little higher to really showcase her delicate yet powerful voice. Love also beautifully represented Malala Yousafzai and Harriet Tubman: two stories of women who carry a lot of weight and importance.

I also thought there were some clever lyrics in the song “If Shakespeare Had A Sister” which was based on an excerpt from Virginia Woolf, the pioneer of the “stream of consciousness” style of writing, and this long song seems to be an ode to that. .

The musical takes some historical liberties like the tender story of Hua Li, Mulan’s mother, who scholars generally consider to be a fictional character, while giving Mary Magdalene a country accent, which was surprisingly enjoyable and hilarious.

A few songs seemed cheesier to me, like “The Water is Where”, a duet about Fanny Durack and Mina Wylie as well as “Order In The Court” about judges Sandra Day O’Connor, Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Sonia. Sotomayor and Elena Kagan, BUT, I loved the thank you to Ketanji Brown Jackson and the beautiful harmonies of the performers in these two songs. And when they sang the lyrics, “We need more stepwives,” the crowd went wild, clapping, cheering and dancing for the rest of the song.

The show ends with an inspiring song called “We Rise,” leaving the audience with a feeling of hope that we have come a long way but there is still much to do for society to achieve true equality.

Head to the MusicalFare Theater for a fun, relaxed evening at the theater and surprise yourself with what you may or may not already know about these iconic women throughout history.

Photos by Chris Cavanagh and Doug Weyand

BUFFALO HERD EVALUATION SYSTEM

FIVE BUFFALO: Universal appeal! This production is pure theatrical magic – an audience pleaser. No prior theater experience is necessary. Whether it’s a hilarious comedy or a heartwarming drama, this show offers an unforgettable shared experience. You will laugh, be touched or amazed (depending on the genre). Collect your tickets before they disappear!

FOUR BUFFALO: Highly recommended! This production provides high quality entertainment. It may have a solid storyline and stellar performances. While it may not be for everyone, theater lovers and those interested in style, themes, or genre will certainly be pleased. Gather your friends or make a date – you won’t be disappointed you went!

THREE BUFFALO: A solid evening! A solid production and an enjoyable evening at the theater. It is a good choice for a night out. Go through it and check it out if you can!

TWO BUFFALOES: Intriguing! This production may not appeal to all tastes. However, if you are feeling adventurous and want to forge your own theatrical path, this production offers a unique experience. Although it may have some minor imperfections, if the genre, themes, and style match your interests, you should definitely attend!

ONE BUFFALO: If you like theater…While it won’t appeal to everyone, it provides a challenging and challenging experience. Fans of traditional theater might have a hard time following. While it will undoubtedly spark conversation, consider the genre, themes, and style before attending.