Alva Belmont Lyrics

Song Facts:

• Genre: Musical Theatre
• Lyricist: Shaina Taub
• Composers: Shaina Taub
• Musical: "Suffs"
• Year: 2024

Song creation

"Alva Belmont" originally featured a complete solo song for the character, but due to time constraints, it had to be condensed. "Alva used to have a whole solo song, and god, I wish we had time for it, but the show just got too damn long," the songwriter lamented, playfully suggesting a 24-hour version one day, inspired by Taylor Mac. This scene is another example of recitative that resisted becoming a straightforward book scene. Despite lacking a traditional song structure, it continued to feel effective. Alva Belmont's eccentric character brought its own unique musical logic, rejecting conventional verses and choruses. "Let’s get crazy," Alva seemed to say, pushing boundaries. Emily Skinner embraced this unconventional approach, delivering the performance with delightful flair and creativity.

Annotations and Meaning of Alva Belmont:

The track Alva Belmont from the musical "Suffs" introduces Alva Belmont, a wealthy socialite and philanthropist who becomes a crucial supporter of the suffrage movement. The song highlights the practical and financial challenges faced by the suffragists and the intersection of social classes within the movement.

How will we do it when it's never been done?
How will we find a way where there isn't one?

The song opens with the suffragists expressing their uncertainty about overcoming unprecedented obstacles, setting the stage for their search for resources and support.

So what just happened?
Did Kenny kick you out or did you quit?
As in kick us out of NASA altogether?
Yes!

This exchange reveals a setback faced by the suffragists, emphasizing the ongoing struggles and resistance they encounter in their efforts.

How will we afford our travel?
How will we raise any money?
Have you even thought of money?
How will we-
We can do it!

The suffragists are concerned about financing their activities, underscoring the practical difficulties of sustaining a political movement. The refrain of "We can do it!" shows their determination despite these challenges.

How will we do it when it's never been done?
I want us to meet someone.
A socialist, a socialite.

The introduction of Alva Belmont as a potential ally signals a turning point. Her dual identity as a socialist and a socialite suggests a bridge between different segments of society.

Alva Belmont.
Alva Belmont?
I divorced my husband for philandering.
Now I've got his millions for philanthropy.

Alva Belmont introduces herself with a brief history, highlighting her wealth and her commitment to using it for philanthropic causes, indicating her potential as a valuable supporter.

You really think she'll give her money to a radical squad?
Every worthy cause needs a rich old broad.

The skepticism about Belmont’s support is countered by the pragmatic recognition that financial backing from wealthy individuals can be crucial for any cause.

Alva Belmont, I'm Alice Paul.
No, I know who you are, doll.
We're starting a women's political party.
Yeah! We'd love for you to join it.
You mean you'd love for me to fund it?
Oh, that would be great.

The exchange between Alice Paul and Alva Belmont shows Paul's strategic approach to securing funding and Belmont's awareness of her role as a financier.

Let me get this straight.
You gals just stood in front of the suffrage establishment,
And the national press, no less,
And declared political warfare on Wilson and his party,
While the country's on the brink of war itself.
And now you shamelessly demand my riches of me
For this risky rebel goo.
The nerve of you.
I love it!

Belmont’s response shows her admiration for the suffragists' boldness and willingness to take risks. Her enthusiasm indicates her readiness to support their cause despite the potential dangers.

To whom do I make out the check?
The women's party.
She'll be the national women's party.
Gives it more oomph.
Women's party is sharper.
Is the SD enough to cover your plans?
National women's party it is.
Now wait, I tick!

This dialogue illustrates the practical considerations involved in naming and branding the movement, emphasizing the importance of a strong and appealing identity.

You capitalist elite
Really want to exploit your working class
To promote your own dominance?
Ooh, I like you.
You really put the rage in suffrage.
Yeah, what's your name, darling?
Brujah Rosie B.
You're a good little socialist and socialized.
That's right, but that's neat.
Cause I've got a surprise.
Close your eyes, Rosie, close your eyes.
Open Sesame.

The interaction between Belmont and Brujah Rosie B. highlights the ideological diversity within the movement. Belmont’s surprise gift underscores her commitment to the cause.

Welcome to your new NWP headquarters,
Right across the street from the White House.
It's you, huh?
Now I'm on board.
Now go head out west on a radical spree.
How can we ever thank you?
Someday you'll name it after me.

The new headquarters symbolize a significant step forward for the National Women's Party (NWP), strategically located to maximize their influence. Belmont’s support is crucial, and her humor suggests a lasting legacy. Overall, Alva Belmont showcases the intersection of wealth, class, and activism in the suffrage movement.