Justina Machado has a deep connection with “Real Women Have Curves,” a story that has evolved over the years from its roots as a semi-autobiographical play by Josefina López to a Broadway musical currently gracing the stage at New York City’s James Earl Jones Theater. Originally premiered in San Francisco in 1990 and later produced in Chicago in 1993, the narrative found wider recognition through the 2002 film starring America Ferrera.
Machado, who has recently earned a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for her portrayal of Carmen Garcia, reflects on her journey with the production that began when she was just 19. “I was a young actress and didn’t fully grasp the themes of deportation and immigration at the time,” she shares, noting how her understanding has broadened as she revisits the material three decades later.
Now, Machado plays the matriarch Carmen, reflecting on the challenges and aspirations of her daughter, Ana, a role she originally played as a teenager. The musical explores Ana’s dreams of attending college while addressing the harsh realities of their community, including immigration raids and familial pressures. With a robust narrative structure developed by Lisa Loomer and an engaging score by Joy Huerta and Benjamin Velez, the production highlights the complexities of immigrant life and the mother-daughter dynamic.
Despite receiving nominations for Best Featured Actress and Best Original Score, Machado expressed her disappointment over the show’s omission from the Best Musical category. “It’s bittersweet,” she acknowledged, recognizing the crowded field of competition but emphasizing the musical’s vital message and emotional impact.
Audiences are reportedly leaving the show with a mix of emotions—many express tears, laughter, and heartfelt gratitude to the cast. “They feel seen, they feel heard, they feel understood,” Machado states, underscoring the powerful resonance of the story for those who connect with its themes.
Tickets for “Real Women Have Curves” are currently on sale, and the 2025 Tony Awards will take place on June 8, promising a celebration of the performing arts.
Machado’s experience with the show not only highlights her growth as an artist but also underscores the importance of representation in theater. It’s inspiring to see how a production rooted in real-life experiences continues to touch hearts and spark conversations about identity and belonging in today’s society.