Arizona Premieres SUFFS at ASU Gammage, Launching the State’s America 250 Celebration

On October 14, ASU Gammage welcomed the Arizona premiere of SUFFS, the musical about the women who fought for the right to vote. The evening also marked the start of Arizona’s recognition of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
 

Next year marks 250 years since the founding of the United States. Arizona and ASU Gammage gathered early to honor this milestone with America250 AZ, bringing together community members, donors, government officials, and supporters of the arts for a special pre-show reception.

Arizona’s Proud Place in the Story

The themes of SUFFS resonated strongly in the theater. When Arizona became a state in 1912, women in Arizona gained the right to vote that same year. Arizona was the 10th state in the country where women had that right. During the performance, a moment featuring state flags drew an especially enthusiastic cheer when the Arizona flag appeared. The pride in the theater  was unmistakable.

Earlier that evening on the outdoor  promenade, guests could spot purple and gold, two historic colors of the suffrage movement. Historical displays from the Arizona Capitol Museum and the Arizona State Library highlighted original documents tied to Arizona’s role in the fight for voting rights, including signatures from the 1912 suffrage campaign.

Program and Reflections

Arizona America250 Executive Director Laura Terech welcomed guests and spoke about the connection between history, civic engagement, and the arts. ASU Vice President for Cultural Affairs and Executive Director of ASU Gammage, Colleen Jennings-Roggensack, followed with remarks.

“SUFFS brings to life the fearless women who fought for the right to vote and changed our democracy,” she said. “As we look toward the 250th anniversary of our country, this reminds us that progress continues and that each of us has a role to play.”

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego and Tempe Vice Mayor Doreen Garlid also shared reflections on community leadership and civic participation. Representatives from the Arizona Capitol Museum and the State Library spoke about preserving and sharing Arizona’s history with the public.

Arizona Secretary of State and Chair of the Arizona America250 Commission Adrian Fontes closed the reception with a toast of gratitude to partners and supporters shaping America250 programming statewide.

A Special Moment in the Theater

Before the performance began, Governor Katie Hobbs joined Colleen Jennings-Roggensack and touring cast member Monica Tulia Ramírez, who portrays Inez Milholland, onstage. Governor Hobbs spoke about the ongoing importance of civic participation and then issued a proclamation declaring:

October 14, 2025 as SUFFS Day in Arizona.

The audience cheered, united in the shared celebration.

Carrying the Story Forward

As the performance began, the message of SUFFS was clear. The work of progress continues. The women who marched before us left a legacy that calls each of us to stay engaged.

Opening night at ASU Gammage honored the past and inspired reflection on the future, encouraging all of us to keep marching forward.