From Cinderella’s step-mother to the dream-stealing Mama from Gypsy, mothers are not often portrayed in a positive light. Sophocles, Tennessee Williams, and many others have all taken pot-shots at matriarchs. Fortunately, positive mother characters can be found some terrific musical theater productions. Here are some perfect examples:
The Light in the Piazza:
Adam Guettel’s melodic drama explores mother/daughter relationships deeper than most other musicals. The story: 26 year old Clara and her mother Margaret are touring through Italy. The young woman meets a Roman hunk, and it’s love at first sight. Throughout the play Margaret offers warnings, guidance, and wisdom to her daughter. All the while, she must learn to say goodbye to her little girl.
Hairspray:
This musical has more than just peppy songs to offer. There’s lot of positive messages mixed in with the music and laughter. Edna Turnblad is a plus-plus sized woman (though she’s played by a male actor) who gains the courage to step out of her home for the first time in over a decade. Reluctant at first, Edna encourages her daughter, the ever-optimistic Tracy Turnblad, to reach for her dreams.
Miss Saigon:
I always felt this musical was way too much of a downer. Also, there are a bit too many scenes stolen away by the sleazy “Engineer” character. But the protagonist is a fine example of a devoted mother. Throughout the musical’s second act, Vietnamese refugee Kim sings sweet yet powerful songs to her little boy, promising him a better life. In the finale, she sacrifices herself to ensure her son’s well-being.
Mama Mia:
This comic hit musical begins with an amusing premise: A soon-to-be-wed young woman has never met her dad. When she reads her mother’s diary, she discovers that three different men could be her father. She decides to invite each one to her wedding. You can imagine the mom’s shock! But, since it’s a musical laden with ABBA songs, you can expect a very happy ending.
The Sound of Music:
True, Frauline Maria is a step-parent (and a failed nun), but she embodies many of the virtues of motherhood. She is patient, wise, nurturing, and she’s got one heck of a voice! Anyone that can make play clothes out of curtains, teach kids not to be scared of thunderstorms, and escape from the Nazis while singing and dancing is the perfect mother in my book.
