When it comes to mothers, theatre has all types — compassionate ones, funny ones, controlling ones, and even ones that aren’t really mothers (just mean orphanage owners). In honor of Mother’s Day, we present the ten most memorable mothers that have made impressions on the stage.

Edna Turnblad from Hairspray

A warm-hearted woman who loves her daughter more than anything. A large (no pun intended) heart and a gentle soul make Edna a mother we love.

Mama Rose from Gypsy

A mama we look up to and are a little terrified of. Mama Rose doesn’t mess around.

Fantine from Les Misérables

Ruined dreams and an untimely death prove Fantine is a mother who makes the ultimate sacrifice to save her child.

Diana Goodman from Next to Normal

Moms have it tough, especially when mental illness comes into play. Diana, we support you.

Donna Sheridan from Mamma Mia

Donna is a free-spirited, beautiful, passionate woman. Twenty years prior, she was the lead singer in the popular musical group “Donna and the Dynamos.” Donna teaches us that single moms can successfully raise a child.

The Witch from Into the Woods

A heartbreaking reminder that some mothers just want what’s best for us.

Edith Bouvier Beale from Grey Gardens

Big Edie lets us know that even though she lives in a rundown mansion bereft of money, she still loves her daughter, Little Edie.

Kim from Miss Saigon

Kim shows that mothers will go to extreme lengths to protect the future of their children.

Jenna Hunterson from Waitress

Jenna is a pregnant woman stuck in her life as an unhappily married waitress in a small town.  She finds some happiness and expression through her meticulous baking of pies, her friendships with her coworkers, and eventually in being a mother.

Mary Jane Healy from Jagged Little Pill

A modern mother who struggles with substance abuse and a secret, but ultimately loves her family.

Dishonorable Mentions

Miss Hannigan from Annie

We get it, we get it, Miss Hannigan. You’re not cut out to be a foster mother, but at least you care enough to sing about it.

Margaret White from Carrie

Sure, Margaret, Eve was weak “blah blah blah”. Thanks for reminding us of our human fragility.

Mrs. Wormwood from Matilda

Flashy, loud, and uninterested in books, Mrs. Wormwood has good intentions, but her methods of raising her daughter are up for debate.

Medea from Medea

Happy tragic mother’s day to the woman who punishes her husband for cheating on her…by murdering her own children.

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