Iconic Mothers Shine on Broadway
These iconic mother roles have become an integral part of Broadway history, with each character bringing their own unique brand of love, support, and complexity to the stage. From the poignant songs to the memorable performances, these characters have captivated audiences and continue to inspire new generations of theatergoers.

Mama Rose, Golde, Edna Turnblad, Mae Peterson, and The Witch are among the most iconic mother roles in Broadway history, with each character bringing their own unique brand of love, support, and complexity to the stage. From the tour-de-force stage mother Mama Rose in Gypsy to the strong and wise Golde in Fiddler on the Roof, these characters have captivated audiences with their poignant songs and memorable performances.
The role of Mama Rose has been played by legendary actresses such as Audra McDonald, Ethel Merman, and Angela Lansbury, who have all brought their own interpretation to the character. Golde, on the other hand, has been portrayed by talented actresses like Maria Karnilova, Thelma Lee, and Jessica Hecht, who have all captured the character's strength and wisdom. Edna Turnblad, from Hairspray, is a plus-sized mother who encourages her daughter to chase her dreams, singing hits like "Welcome to the '60s" and "You're Timeless to Me."
Other iconic mother roles on Broadway include Mae Peterson from Bye Bye Birdie and The Witch from Into the Woods. These characters have been played by a range of talented actors, including Kay Medford, Jayne Houdyshell, Bernadette Peters, Phylicia Rashad, and Vanessa Williams. With Mother's Day approaching, five Broadway shows stand out as perfect for the occasion: Gypsy, Hell's Kitchen, Redwood, Real Women Have Curves, and Old Friends.
Whether you're looking for a classic musical like Gypsy or a contemporary show like Hell's Kitchen, there's something for everyone on Broadway this Mother's Day. With their iconic mother roles and memorable performances, these shows are sure to delight audiences and leave a lasting impression.