When Joy Huerta, the Grammy Award-winning singer from Jesse & Joy, received an unexpected invitation to compose for Broadway's upcoming adaptation of "Real Women Have Curves," she embraced the challenge with open arms. Little did she know that this project would become a transformative experience, blending her musical prowess with the rich narrative of immigrant life and identity.

Discover the Power of Music That Resonates Across Cultures

The Birth of a New Challenge

In early 2020, just as the world was on the brink of unprecedented change, Joy Huerta found herself at a crossroads. The producers of "Real Women Have Curves" approached her to write the music for the stage adaptation. Despite having no prior experience in theater composition, Huerta saw this as an opportunity to push her creative boundaries. The weekend before lockdown, she watched the 2002 film and immediately connected with its themes of self-discovery and cultural duality. She recalls, “I knew this story had to be told through music, and I wanted to be the one to tell it.”Huerta’s decision to accept the challenge marked the beginning of a five-year journey filled with learning and growth. As she delved into the nuances of storytelling through music, she realized that writing for theater required a different approach compared to her pop songs. In theater, a single song could set the tone for an entire act, creating a ripple effect that resonated throughout the performance. This realization transformed her approach to songwriting, allowing her to infuse her work with deeper emotional layers.

A Song of Transformation

One of the standout tracks from the musical is “Flying Away,” a poignant ballad that captures the essence of Ana García’s struggle between her aspirations and family expectations. The song reflects the internal conflict of a young woman torn between two worlds—her desire to pursue her dreams and the pressure to conform to traditional roles. Huerta explains, “‘Flying Away’ speaks to the universal experience of growing up, especially for those who come from immigrant families. It’s about finding your voice while honoring your roots.”The lyrics, penned by Huerta and composer Benjamin Velez, convey the tension between personal ambition and familial duty. Lines like “They gave up so much so I could have more/ And if I don’t go what was all of it for” resonate deeply with audiences, evoking both admiration and empathy. Through this song, Huerta aims to highlight the sacrifices made by immigrant families and the importance of staying true to oneself without abandoning one’s heritage.

From Screen to Stage

Based on Josefina López’s play and the HBO film adaptation, "Real Women Have Curves" tells the story of Ana García, an 18-year-old Latina living in East L.A. in 1987. Ana faces the daunting task of balancing her academic ambitions with her mother’s desire for her to marry and take over the family’s textile factory. The musical not only showcases the struggles of first-generation immigrants but also explores broader themes of identity, belonging, and empowerment.Huerta’s involvement in the project has allowed her to bring a fresh perspective to the narrative. Her background as a Mexican-American artist gives her a unique understanding of the cultural dynamics at play. She notes, “This story feels very personal to me because I’ve lived through similar experiences. It’s important to tell these stories authentically, so people can see themselves reflected on stage.”The musical premiered at the American Repertory Theater in 2023, receiving critical acclaim for its heartfelt portrayal of immigrant life. Now, as it prepares for its Broadway debut, Huerta hopes that audiences will leave the theater with a greater appreciation for the complexities of immigrant experiences. She emphasizes, “It’s not just about the challenges; it’s also about the resilience and strength that comes from overcoming them.”

Bridging Worlds Through Music

Throughout the process of composing for "Real Women Have Curves," Huerta has drawn inspiration from her own life and career. Writing for theater has taught her to think beyond the confines of a three-minute pop song, allowing her to explore new dimensions in her artistry. She shares, “Working on this project has been a game-changer for me. It’s opened my eyes to the power of music in telling complex stories.”Huerta’s collaboration with Benjamin Velez has been instrumental in shaping the musical’s sound. Together, they have crafted a score that blends traditional Latin influences with contemporary elements, creating a sonic landscape that mirrors the characters’ emotional journeys. Huerta describes the experience as “a beautiful fusion of cultures, much like the story itself.”As "Real Women Have Curves" prepares to grace the Broadway stage, Huerta remains committed to using her platform to amplify underrepresented voices. She believes that storytelling through music can bridge divides and foster understanding. “When we share our stories, we remind each other of our shared humanity,” she says. “That’s the power of art—to connect us all.”