Frida Kahlo: The Broadway Musical
A Celebration of Resilience and Passion
Frida Kahlo, the renowned Mexican painter, is finally getting the Broadway treatment. Frida, The Musical, which is expected to open in 2024, is the first such production to receive her family’s blessing.
Drawing on Personal Stories
The musical’s creators have drawn on personal stories and previously unshared details about Frida Kahlo’s life to tell a complete story. Audiences will get an intimate glimpse into her wit, zest for life, and closeness to her family, as well as the hardships she experienced.
Based on “Intimate Frida”
The show is based on the book Intimate Frida, written by Frida’s niece, Isolda P. Kahlo, as well as personal conversations with her family in Mexico. Valentina Berger is producing the show, Jaime Lozano is composing much of the music, and Neena Beber is writing the lyrics.
Beyond the Suffering
While Frida Kahlo is often portrayed as a suffering artist, the musical aims to showcase her resilience and love of life. “Everyone knows a colder Frida, a suffering Frida, but she loved life,” Berger says. “She was really, really fun. That’s what we want to portray.”
Frida’s Early Life and Artistic Journey
Frida Kahlo was born in 1907 in Mexico City. She suffered from polio as a child, which gave her a slight limp. Later, she was involved in a bus accident that required over 30 surgeries and left her with chronic pain.
During her recovery from the accident, Frida began painting regularly. While studying at the National Preparatory School, she met muralist Diego Rivera, and the two went on to have a tumultuous relationship.
Self-Portraiture and Gallery Success
Despite her physical challenges, Frida Kahlo continued to paint and dazzle gallery-goers with her work, particularly her striking self-portraits. She used her art to express her inner world and experiences, often depicting her pain and suffering.
Resilience in the Face of Pain
One of the musical’s songs, “Wings,” explores Frida Kahlo’s resilience while enduring so much pain from her injuries. The show highlights how she used her art as a form of self-expression and healing.
Family Legacy and Inspiration
Frida Kahlo’s relatives are eager to share more of her story with the world through the musical. Her grand-niece, Mara Romeo, says that Frida was “driven by an unending passion for life.”
Empowering Women and Girls
The musical aims to inspire women everywhere to have the courage to fight for their dreams. Frida Kahlo’s legacy as a strong and independent woman continues to resonate with audiences today.
Frida Kahlo’s Impact on Art and Culture
Frida Kahlo’s art has had a profound impact on contemporary art, particularly on the representation of women and the exploration of identity and pain. Her work has been exhibited in museums around the world and has inspired countless artists and cultural figures.
A Testament to Frida’s Spirit
Frida, The Musical is a testament to Frida Kahlo’s enduring spirit and the power of art to heal, inspire, and connect people. It is a celebration of her life, her resilience, and her unwavering passion for life.