Broadway shows in New York City offer a unique and unforgettable theatre experience. From classic theatre shows to contemporary musicals, there are options available for everyone. With the full range of theatrical performances on stage, choosing which one to attend can be a daunting task. But to simplify that for you, here is a guide to some of the best Broadway shows in NYC.
Hamilton
With sold-out shows and overwhelming critical acclaim, Hamilton is one of Broadway’s biggest current phenoms. This Hamilton tells the story of one of America’s founding fathers, Alexander Hamilton, and the journey of the American Revolution. The show features a mix of hip-hop, R&B, and classic show tunes and is a phenomenal experience for theatre enthusiasts.
The Lion King
The Lion King is a blockbuster hit with a worldwide fan base that has been running since 1997. The show is based on the Disney animated movie released in 1994, and the theatre adaptation comes with iconic music, beautiful costumes, and engaging performances that leave the audience mesmerized.
Wicked
Wicked is a Broadway classic that has been running for over a decade and continues to sell-out shows even to this day. The show’s story is derived from L. Frank Baum’s "The Wizard of Oz" and tells the prequel story of the wicked witch of the west and her journey towards ‘wickedness.’ The sets and costumes of the show are brilliant, making it a mesmerising and enchanting performance to watch.
Phantom of the Opera
Phantom of the Opera is a timeless classic that has been running successfully since 1988. The show tells the story of a mysterious man who lives beneath the Paris Opera House, and the romance he has with a young soprano. The show is known for its elaborate set design, beautiful songs, and exciting performances that captivate the audience.
Dear Evan Hansen
Dear Evan Hansen is one of the most popular contemporary musicals on Broadway. The show deals with topical and intense themes that many people can relate to, such as loneliness, depression, and anxiety. The story follows the life of a high school student with social anxiety disorder. The show’s music is an absolute delight, and the entire performance is beautifully crafted.
Book of Mormon
Book of Mormon is a musical created by the famous duo of Trey Parker and Matt Stone, famous for creating South Park. The story revolves around two Mormon missionaries who are sent to Uganda to preach their religious message. The show is a mix of satire, humour, and great music that keeps the audience entertained throughout the runtime.
Come From Away
Come From Away, set in the aftermath of 9/11, addresses the attempts of individuals navigating through the crisis in Newfoundland, Canada, in an inventive and touching way. The show is an excellent testament to community spirit and compassion during tough times. The music is uplifting and soothing, and the immediate relevance of this incredible musical cannot be overstated.
Aladdin
Aladdin is another popular Disney theatre adaptation that has been running for years. The Broadway adaptation takes the tale of the street rat and the genie and makes it vibrant with dazzling colours, bursts of creativity, and good humor. It’s a family-friendly musical that features tantalizing costumes, great songs, and an engaging storyline that impresses people of all ages.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a veteran theatre-goer or want to experience your first Broadway show, there are plenty of choices available for you. From classic romances to contemporary social commentary, Broadway shows offer a range of narratives that capture the audience’s attention through the staging, performance, and music. This guide to some of the best Broadway shows in NYC will help you plan your next theatre outing and provide you with an unforgettable experience that you’ll treasure for years to come.