Exclusive Interview: Amelia Rico, Director of ‘Real Women Have Curves’

Opening September 4 and running through October 5 at Classic Theatre, Real Women Have Curves is a heartfelt and empowering coming-of-age story. It’s a rich, character-driven play that celebrates culture, resilience, and self-acceptance.

Director Amelia Rico took some time to answer some questions for ArtScene SA.

ArtScene SA: Tell us a bit about the play.

Amelia Rico: Real Women Have Curves is a coming of age semi-autobiographical comedy about a group of women who work at a garment factory in the late 80’s trying to fulfill an insane dress order in the midst of L.A. INS raids and unfair wages for laborers and undocumented workers. We follow Ana, a high school graduate who has a bit of a chip on her shoulder, as she works, sweats and, eventually, sheds more than just her prejudice.

What will make it appealing to San Antonio audiences? How do you hope they will receive it?

San Antonio audiences are going to love this production because, first of all, it’s hilarious! It’s just such a fun show full of recognizable and relatable characters. Despite some of the heavy and, sadly, topical themes, I hope everyone will come with their moms, sisters, and girlfriends, ready to laugh, celebrate womanhood and have a great time.

They might also want to bring a tissue or two just in case. Like many good comedies, it is born out of pain and hardship, which really makes you appreciate the laughs!

What’s your opinion of the state of San Antonio theater today?

Nationwide, theater has been on a decline. I have worked in many theaters that have been struggling to find a foothold amidst cuts in art funding, economic decline, and rise in streaming television. But one thing I have discovered is that a new audience is primed and ready to discover live theater. With a million distractions and time suckers like social media ready and available 24/7 at the tips of your fingers, people are starved for human connection. Enter the Classic Theatre at San Pedro Playhouse with an amazing HERstory season lineup and it just fills me with joy and hope for the future of theater.

Real Women Have Curves plays Thursday through Sunday at the Classic Theatre, 800 West Ashby Place. Tickets and showtimes can be found here.

Feature photo: Amelia Rico with the cast. Photos courtesy Classic Theatre.