Written by Jennifer Taylor, to a Sold-Out Audience at the Apollo Theater in Paris
On March 18, 2026, a sold-out audience gathered at the Apollo Theater in Paris for the European premiere of A Fundamental Right to Choose, the Broadway World Award-winning play written and originally produced by Jennifer Taylor. Directed in Paris by Eugenia Kuzmina, the production brought together fifteen international artists from Los Angeles, New York, Amsterdam, Portugal, London, and Paris, resulting in a truly global collaboration that resonated with audiences from the opening scene.
Originally staged in Los Angeles in 2025, the play earned multiple BroadwayWorld Awards and has continued its acclaimed trajectory with this Paris debut. A Fundamental Right to Choose explores women’s rights surrounding abortion through interconnected, character-driven narratives. The play is lauded not only for its compelling storytelling but also for its sensitive, empathetic approach to a deeply personal and often politically charged subject. Kuzmina emphasizes, “It is not a political play — it is a humanitarian play. Our goal was to bring forward stories that illuminate the human experience, not debate policy.”
A Global Collaboration Across Time Zones
The production process was a feat of international coordination. Rehearsals spanned multiple time zones via Zoom, with cast and creative team members participating during early morning or late-night hours to accommodate schedules stretching from Los Angeles to Paris. Despite these logistical challenges, the team maintained a high level of creative synergy, with regular check-ins, collaborative workshops, and shared brainstorming sessions helping to shape the Paris production.
The cast and crew finally came together for an in-person rehearsal at the Apollo Theater, where technical, lighting, and staging elements were integrated. Kuzmina highlighted the importance of teamwork in achieving the final result:
“Without collaboration, this production would never have been possible. I wouldn’t take credit as a director alone — this was truly a coming together of artists, each contributing their unique talents to the final performance.”
Key Creative Contributions
Brent Harvey played a pivotal role in the Paris production, effectively serving as co-director. He led rehearsals, contributed to staging, oversaw technical elements, and adapted portions of the script to resonate with a European audience. Joanna Bronson served as both actor and producer, offering creative partnership and ensuring that the production maintained its artistic integrity throughout the process.
Thomas Hardy played a key role in audience engagement, helping the production achieve a sold-out performance, while Breck Graham guided the artistic direction, providing cohesion and vision across the creative team. Makeup and hair were designed by Sabrina Dubois, and costume designers contributed to creating a visually compelling production that reflected the characters’ emotional journeys. Special thanks are extended to Majda, director of the Apollo Theater, for supporting the Paris engagement and facilitating the seamless execution of the premiere.
The Cast
The Paris production featured a diverse and talented ensemble:
- Giovanna Calvano as Taylor
- José Marques as Adam
- Elia Coutte as Tina
- Brent Harvey as Sean
- Michelle Farrell as Dr. Richards
- Caitlin McEachran as Becky
- Philip Latini as John
- Habib Gino Guabintani as Derek
- Elaine N. Yu as Chelsea (also musician)
- Michelle Carney as Harmony
- Annabelle Carette-Noori as Mandy
- Thomas Hardy as Jackson
- Joanna Bronson as Angela
- Kwok One as Mark
Each actor brought depth and nuance to their roles, contributing to the production’s emotional impact and critical acclaim. The ensemble’s chemistry and dedication were essential in conveying the play’s central themes of autonomy, choice, and humanity. Audiences responded enthusiastically, with standing ovations and discussions that continued long after the performance concluded.
A Bright Future Ahead
Following its sold-out Paris premiere, A Fundamental Right to Choose is poised to continue its international run, with future productions planned, including a return to New York. The play has firmly established itself as a landmark production, bridging cultures and sparking meaningful conversations around women’s rights and personal choice.
Reflecting on the experience, Kuzmina notes:
“This production shows what is possible when artists come together across borders and time zones to tell stories that matter. The response in Paris has been incredible, and I’m excited for audiences around the world to experience it next.”
With its combination of compelling storytelling, global collaboration, and socially resonant themes, A Fundamental Right to Choose continues to demonstrate how theater can inspire empathy, ignite dialogue, and unite audiences across continents.
For updates on Kuzmina’s ongoing projects and behind-the-scenes glimpses of her work, audiences can follow her on Instagram.
