Shaina Taub: A Powerhouse of Modern Musical Theater
Shaina Taub has established herself as a formidable force in the contemporary theater scene, blending her talents as a composer, lyricist, and performer. From her early days in Off-Broadway revues to winning prestigious awards for her original works, Taub's career is marked by a commitment to storytelling and historical narrative.
Key Facts
- Tony Award Winner: Won Best Book and Best Score in 2024 for the musical Suffs.
- Influential Figure: Named one of the Time 100 most influential people of 2024.
- Versatile Artist: Experienced in acting, composing, and writing for both Broadway and Off-Broadway.
- Cultural Impact: Her song "Keep Marching" was recognized by CBS News as one of the 250 essential American songs of the past 250 years.
The Rise of Suffs and Broadway Success
One of Taub's most significant achievements is the creation of Suffs, a musical centered on the American women's suffrage movement—the organized effort to secure voting rights for women. Taub served as the primary creative engine for the production, writing the book, music, and lyrics, while also starring as the pivotal figure Alice Paul.
The production premiered Off-Broadway at The Public Theater in 2022 before transferring to Broadway in April 2024. The show received positive reviews and earned Taub two Tony Awards in 2024 for Best Book and Best Score.
Collaborations and Major Productions
Beyond her solo creations, Taub has collaborated with world-renowned artists. She penned the lyrics for the musical adaptation of The Devil Wears Prada, based on Lauren Weisberger's 2003 novel, with music composed by Elton John. This production had a limited run in Chicago in 2022 and opened in London's West End in October 2024.
Taub's acting career is equally diverse. She has appeared in several high-profile productions, including Hadestown as a Fate (2016) and Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812 as Princess Mary (2013). She also performed as Emma Goldman in the Ragtime on Ellis Island concert, a role she reprised for New York City Center's Ragtime in November 2024. This production is scheduled to transfer to Broadway in September 2025.
Early Career and Artistic Foundations
Taub's versatility was evident early in her career. She spent time performing a monthly solo residency at Joe's Pub in Manhattan and appeared in the 2008 film Spare Some Change: NYC Artists for Barack Obama, directed by Ryan Mekenian.
Her work with The Public Theater's Public Works program showcased her ability to adapt classical texts. She composed and starred in adaptations of William Shakespeare's plays, including Twelfth Night (2016 and 2018) and As You Like It (2017). Additionally, she appeared in the 2016 Off-Broadway revival of the revue show Old Hats.
| Production | Role/Contribution | Year(s) | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suffs | Book, Music, Lyrics, Actor | 2022–2024 | Tony Awards for Best Book & Score |
| The Devil Wears Prada | Lyricist | 2022–2024 | Collaboration with Elton John |
| Ragtime | Actor (Emma Goldman) | 2024–2025 | Broadway transfer in Sept 2025 |
| Hadestown | Actor (Fate) | 2016 | Original Off-Broadway cast |
Frequently Asked Questions
What awards did Shaina Taub win for Suffs?
Shaina Taub won two Tony Awards in 2024 for Best Book and Best Score for her work on the musical Suffs.
Who did Shaina Taub collaborate with on The Devil Wears Prada?
She collaborated with Elton John, who provided the music while Taub wrote the lyrics for the musical adaptation.
Which role does Taub play in Ragtime?
Taub plays the role of Emma Goldman, a performance she brought to the Ellis Island concert, New York City Center, and the upcoming 2025 Broadway transfer.
What is the significance of the song "Keep Marching"?
In June 2026, CBS News included "Keep Marching" in its curated list of the 250 essential American songs of the past 250 years.
What Shakespeare plays has Taub adapted?
For The Public Theater's Public Works program, Taub composed and starred in adaptations of Twelfth Night and As You Like It.