Broadway has always been the epicenter of theatrical performances, attracting audiences from all over the world. The bright lights, the energy, and the sheer talent on display make Broadway a truly magical experience. With new shows opening all the time, it can be hard to keep up with what’s currently playing. In this article, we’ll take a comprehensive look at the hottest shows on Broadway right now, from classic revivals to cutting-edge original productions. Whether you’re a theater aficionado or just looking for a great night out, this guide has something for everyone. So let’s dive in and explore the current Broadway scene!

Top Shows of the Moment

Musicals

• The Lion King
  • Directed by Julie Taymor, this musical adaptation of the Disney film tells the story of young Simba’s journey to become the king of the Pride Lands. The show features stunning costumes, makeup, and puppetry, as well as an unforgettable score by Elton John and Tim Rice.
• Hamilton
  • Created by Lin-Manuel Miranda, this musical retells the story of America’s founding fathers through a diverse cast of actors. The show’s hip-hop and R&B-infused score has received widespread critical acclaim, and it has been praised for its innovative staging and storytelling.
• Wicked
  • Based on the novel by Gregory Maguire, this musical tells the story of the witches of Oz, including the green-skinned Elphaba and her relationship with Glinda the Good Witch. The show features a powerful score by Stephen Schwartz and a visually stunning set design.

Plays

• To Kill a Mockingbird
  • Set in the 1930s Deep South, this adaptation of Harper Lee’s classic novel tells the story of a young girl, Scout Finch, and her father, Atticus Finch, as they navigate the racial tensions of their community. The play explores themes of racial injustice, moral courage, and the loss of innocence.
  • The Boys in the Band
    • This play, set in 1968 New York City, follows a group of gay men as they gather for a birthday party. The play delves into the complexities of their relationships and explores themes of self-acceptance, love, and friendship.
  • Gary: A Sequel to Titus Andronicus
    • This dark comedy, set in a Gotham City morgue, follows the character of Gary as he attempts to find a new purpose in life after his time as a professional assassin. The play explores themes of identity, redemption, and the absurdity of life.

Most Anticipated Shows of the Season

The upcoming season on Broadway promises to be an exciting one, with several highly anticipated musicals set to hit the stage. Here are three of the most talked-about shows:

West Side Story

One of the most iconic musicals of all time, West Side Story, is being reimagined for a new generation of theatergoers. Directed by Tony Award-winner Ivo van Hove, this adaptation of the classic tale of love and rivalry in New York City features a new choreography by Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker and a new sound design by Peter McBoyle. The cast includes Broadway veterans such as Shereen Pimentel and Corey Stoll, as well as newcomers such as Mateo Ferro and Kaitlyn Taryn Davidson.

Frozen

Based on the hit Disney animated film, Frozen is a musical that follows the journey of sisters Elsa and Anna as they navigate the dangers of their kingdom. With a book by Jennifer Lee, the creator of the film, and music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, the creators of The Book of Mormon, Frozen promises to be a thrilling adventure on stage. The cast includes Caissie Levy as Elsa, Patti Murin as Anna, and John Riddle as Kristoff.

The Little Mermaid

A classic tale of love and sacrifice, The Little Mermaid tells the story of a young mermaid named Ariel who longs to explore the world above the sea. With music by eight-time Oscar winner Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater, this musical promises to be a magical experience for audiences of all ages. The cast includes Tamika Lawrence as Ariel, Darlesia Cearcy as Ursula, and David Furr as Prince Eric.

Overall, these three musicals are sure to be standouts of the upcoming Broadway season, offering audiences a diverse range of themes, styles, and performances.

A Christmas Carol

A Christmas Carol, based on the classic novel by Charles Dickens, is a timeless tale of redemption and the spirit of Christmas. The play follows the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man who is visited by the ghost of his former business partner, Jacob Marley, and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. Through these supernatural encounters, Scrooge is transformed into a kinder, more compassionate man.

The Minutes

The Minutes is a new play by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Tracy Letts. The play takes place in the minutes following a catastrophic event, as a group of characters grapple with the aftermath and try to make sense of what has happened. With its suspenseful plot and complex characters, The Minutes promises to be a thought-provoking and emotionally charged experience.

American Utopia

American Utopia is a new play by David Byrne, best known as the lead singer of the Talking Heads. The play explores the theme of utopia and its relationship to the human experience, using music, dance, and visual storytelling to create a unique and immersive theatrical experience. With its innovative staging and thought-provoking themes, American Utopia is sure to be a standout production of the season.

Broadway Shows for Families

Musicals have been a staple of Broadway for decades, and they continue to be a popular choice for families looking for a fun and entertaining night out. Here are some of the most popular musicals currently playing on Broadway:

• Disney’s Aladdin
  • Based on the classic Disney film, Aladdin tells the story of a young man who discovers a magical lamp that grants his every wish. With a score by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice, this musical is a dazzling spectacle of colorful sets, stunning costumes, and memorable songs.
  • The cast features Adam Jacobs as Aladdin, Courtney Reed as Jasmine, and James Monroe Iglehart as Genie.
  • Aladdin has been playing on Broadway since 2014 and has been a consistent hit with audiences of all ages.

• School of Rock

  • Based on the hit movie starring Jack Black, School of Rock follows the story of a wannabe rock star who poses as a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school. With a score by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Glenn Slater, this musical is a high-energy rock ‘n’ roll extravaganza.
  • The cast features Alex Brightman as Dewey Finn, Sierra Boggess as Ms. Hathaway, and Spencer Moses as Freddy.
  • School of Rock has been playing on Broadway since 2015 and has become a fan favorite, with audiences cheering along to the catchy songs and infectious energy.
  • One of the most beloved musicals of all time, The Lion King tells the story of Simba, a young lion who must take his rightful place as king of the Pride Lands. With a score by Elton John and Tim Rice and stunning costumes and puppets, this musical is a visual and auditory feast.
  • The cast features Brandon J. Dirden as Scar, Stephanie J. Block as Nala, and Adam J. Smith as Simba.
  • The Lion King has been playing on Broadway since 1997 and has become a staple of the New York theater scene, consistently selling out shows and attracting audiences from around the world.

• Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

  • Overview:
    • A continuation of the beloved Harry Potter series, set 19 years after the events of the final book.
    • Follows the story of Harry Potter’s son, Albus, as he navigates the wizarding world and deals with the past.
  • Critical Acclaim:
    • Won multiple Tony Awards, including Best Play.
    • Received widespread critical acclaim for its writing, direction, and performances.
  • Recommended for:
    • Fans of the Harry Potter series, or those looking for a magical and engaging theatrical experience.
• Matilda the Musical
  – Based on the popular children’s book by Roald Dahl, this musical tells the story of a young girl with extraordinary powers.
  – Matilda must use her powers to stand up against her cruel parents and protect her school from an evil headmistress.
  – Won multiple Tony Awards, including Best Musical.
  – Praised for its catchy songs, heartwarming story, and talented child performers.
  – Families with young children, or those looking for a feel-good, uplifting musical experience.
• James and the Giant Peach
  – Adapted from the classic children’s book by Roald Dahl, this musical follows the adventures of a young boy named James.
  – After escaping from his wicked aunts, James finds himself on a magical journey with a group of anthropomorphic insects.
  – Nominated for multiple Tony Awards, including Best Musical.
  – Praised for its imaginative staging, catchy music, and strong performances.
  – Fans of Roald Dahl’s works, or those looking for a visually stunning and entertaining family-friendly show.

Upcoming Shows to Watch Out For

Musicals have been a staple of Broadway for decades, and the upcoming shows promise to continue this tradition with a diverse range of offerings. Here are three musicals that are worth watching out for:

Mean Girls

Based on the popular 2004 film of the same name, Mean Girls is a musical that tells the story of a high school outsider named Cady Heron, who tries to navigate the treacherous waters of adolescent social dynamics. With a book by Jeffrey Self and music by Jeff Richmond, this musical promises to be a fresh and witty take on the high school experience.

Beetlejuice

Based on the 1988 Tim Burton film, Beetlejuice is a musical that follows the story of a young couple who die in a car accident and find themselves haunted by the mischievous and deceitful titular character. With a book by Scott Brown and music by Eddie Perfect, this musical promises to be a wild and unpredictable ride, full of laughs and thrills.

The Prom

The Prom is a musical that follows a group of aspiring Broadway performers who rally around a young girl from Indiana named Emma, who wants to bring her girlfriend to the prom. With a book by Chad Beguelin, Bob Martin, and Matthew Sklar, and music by Sklar, this musical promises to be a heartwarming and uplifting story about acceptance and love.

These three musicals showcase the breadth and depth of talent on Broadway, and offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of comedy, drama, or music, these shows are sure to delight and inspire.

• What the Constitution Means to Me
  • Synopsis: This play, written by Heidi Schreck, is a deeply personal and historical examination of the United States Constitution. The playwright herself serves as the lead character, reflecting on her own experiences with the document as well as its impact on American society throughout history. Through this unique lens, the play offers a fresh perspective on the ongoing relevance and importance of the Constitution.
  • Relevant Themes: Constitutional law, feminism, personal narrative, American history.
• Soft Power
  • Synopsis: With music, lyrics, and book by David Henry Hwang, this musical explores the intersection of American and Chinese cultures through the lens of a fictional Chinese president and her entourage. The play grapples with issues of power, politics, and cultural identity in a globalized world.
  • Relevant Themes: International relations, cross-cultural dialogue, music and theater, political satire.
• Dana H.
  • Synopsis: In this solo performance by Danai Gurira, the titular character recounts her experiences growing up in Zimbabwe and immigrating to the United States. The play explores themes of identity, belonging, and the African diaspora, as well as the complexities of navigating multiple cultural worlds.
  • Relevant Themes: Immigration, identity, race, gender, African diaspora, personal narrative.

Special Productions and Limited Engagements

• SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical
  • Created by a team of award-winning artists, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical is a stage production based on the beloved animated television series. The show follows the adventures of the lovable yellow sponge and his friends in the underwater world of Bikini Bottom.
  • With a book by Kyle Jarrow and music by Yolanda Arroyo, the show features an ensemble cast of actors, singers, and dancers bringing the colorful characters to life on stage.
  • The set design and costumes are inspired by the original cartoon series, while the music and lyrics blend pop, rock, and country genres to create a fresh and exciting score.
  • The show premiered on Broadway in December 2017 and has since become a favorite among audiences of all ages.
• The Band’s Visit
  • The Band’s Visit is a musical adaptation of the 2007 Israeli film of the same name. The story follows a group of Egyptian musicians who are stranded in a small Israeli town after their bus breaks down.
  • The show features a book by Itamar Moses and music and lyrics by David Yazbek. The music combines Middle Eastern and Western styles to create a unique and beautiful sound.
  • The cast of the show features talented actors who play both the Egyptian musicians and the small-town residents of Beit Hatikva. The show explores themes of culture, communication, and connection in a heartwarming and humorous way.
  • The Band’s Visit premiered on Broadway in April 2017 and went on to win several Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

• Summer: The Donna Summer Musical

  • Summer: The Donna Summer Musical is a jukebox musical that celebrates the life and music of the iconic disco queen, Donna Summer. The show follows Summer’s rise to fame in the 1970s and her journey to becoming one of the most successful female artists of all time.
  • The show features a book by Colman Domingo, Robert Cary, and Des McAnuff, with music and lyrics by Donna Summer and others. The music includes many of Summer’s classic hits, such as “Love to Love You Baby,” “Bad Girls,” and “Hot Stuff.”
  • The cast of the show features talented actors who play various characters throughout Summer’s life, including her mother, her lover, and her manager. The show explores themes of identity, sexuality, and self-expression in a vibrant and energetic way.
  • Summer: The Donna Summer Musical premiered on Broadway in April 2018 and received critical acclaim for its performances and stunning production values.

• Straight White Men

  • Synopsis: A family gathering takes an unexpected turn when a successful businessman’s adult son brings his fiancée home for the holidays. As the night progresses, secrets are revealed and old resentments surface, forcing the characters to confront their past and the future.
  • Cast: Paul Dano, Armie Hammer, Tom Skerritt, and Ethan Phillips.
  • Directed by Robert Axelrod.
  • Duration: 90 minutes, no intermission.
• The Height of the Storm
  • Synopsis: Set in a large manor in the French countryside, the play follows an aging couple as they reflect on their lives and the events that shaped them. Memories of the past intertwine with the present, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy.
  • Cast: Simon Callow, Jane Birkin, and Michael Cumpsty.
  • Directed by Jonathan Kent.
  • Duration: 2 hours and 45 minutes, with one intermission.
• Sea Wall/A Life
  • Synopsis: Two one-act plays, Sea Wall and A Life, explore the themes of love, loss, and the human condition. In Sea Wall, a man recounts his memories of a woman he loved and lost, while in A Life, a man reflects on his existence and the choices he has made.
  • Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal and Michael Cain.
  • Directed by Carrie Cracknell.
  • Duration: 1 hour and 10 minutes, no intermission.

Broadway Shows for Music Lovers

• Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of the Temptations
  • Ain’t Too Proud is a jukebox musical that tells the story of the legendary Motown group, The Temptations. The show features over 30 of the group’s classic hits, including “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination,” and “Papa Was a Rolling Stone.”
  • The show follows the group’s rise to fame and the personal and professional struggles they faced along the way. Ain’t Too Proud premiered on Broadway in 2018 and received critical acclaim, with many praising its infectious energy and heartfelt performances.
• Summer: The Donna Summer Musical
  • Summer: The Donna Summer Musical is a jukebox musical that celebrates the life and music of the Queen of Disco, Donna Summer. The show features over 20 of Summer’s classic hits, including “Love to Love You Baby,” “Hot Stuff,” and “Bad Girls.”
  • The show tells the story of Summer’s rise to fame, her personal struggles, and her influence on the music industry. Summer: The Donna Summer Musical premiered on Broadway in 2018 and received positive reviews, with many praising its energetic performances and catchy tunes.

• Hadestown

  • Hadestown is a musical adaptation of the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. The show features original music by singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and was developed in collaboration with director Rachel Chavkin.
  • The show tells the story of Orpheus, a musician who descends into the underworld to rescue his wife, Eurydice. Along the way, he encounters various gods and monsters, including Hades himself. Hadestown premiered off-Broadway in 2016 and received critical acclaim, with many praising its unique blend of folk and jazz music and its inventive staging. The show transferred to Broadway in 2019 and won several Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

• Girl from the North Country

  • Concept:
    • A musical drama set in the 1930s in Minnesota, showcasing the lives of a family grappling with love, loss, and hope amidst the Great Depression.
    • Features the songs of Bob Dylan, intertwined with a compelling narrative.
  • Cast:
    • Lead roles include Jeannette Bayardelle as Mrs. Burke, and Matt McGrath as Joe Scott.
    • Ensemble includes Toni Ann DeNoble, Lowell Byers, and John Behlmann.
    • Winner of the 2020 Tony Award for Best Orchestrations.
    • Nominated for two Drama Desk Awards, including Outstanding Musical Revival.
• The Cher Show
  – A jukebox musical celebrating the life and career of the legendary singer and actress, Cher.
  – Showcases her iconic songs, costumes, and performances, as well as her personal journey.
  – Lead roles include Stephanie J. Block as Cher, Micaela Diamond as Young Cher, and Teal Wicks as Sonny Bono.
  – Ensemble includes Michael Berresse, Deborah Grausman, and Matthew Smedal.
  – Nominated for two 2019 Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Leading Actress in a Musical.
  – Praised for its high-energy performances and spectacular costumes.
• The Music Man
  – A classic musical comedy set in the 1910s in Iowa, telling the story of a con man who falls in love and decides to start a band.
  – Features beloved songs such as “Seventy-Six Trombones” and “Till There Was You.”
  – Lead roles include Hugh Jackman as Professor Harold Hill, Sutton Foster as Marian Paroo, and Jefferson Mays as Mayor Shinn.
  – Ensemble includes Kaylee Cavan, Michael Hartung, and Rebecca Luker.
  – Nominated for seven 2022 Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Leading Actor in a Musical.
  – Praised for its delightful performances and beautiful choreography.

Notable Performances and Casts

• Kelli O’Hara in Kiss Me, Kate
  • Kelli O’Hara, a Tony Award-winning actress, has taken on the role of Kate in the revival of Kiss Me, Kate. This classic musical comedy tells the story of a divorced couple who are co-starring in a production of Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew. O’Hara’s performance as Kate has been praised for its humor, wit, and vulnerability, making her a standout in the cast.
• Lin-Manuel Miranda in Freestyle Love Supreme
  • Lin-Manuel Miranda, the creator of Hamilton, has joined the cast of Freestyle Love Supreme, a musical improv show that allows the performers to create new songs and stories on the spot. Miranda’s involvement has added a layer of excitement and anticipation to each performance, as he brings his unique talent for wordplay and storytelling to the stage.
• Sutton Foster in The Music Man
  • Sutton Foster, a two-time Tony Award winner, has taken on the role of Marian the Librarian in the revival of The Music Man. This classic musical tells the story of a con man who comes to a small town and falls in love with the librarian. Foster’s performance has been praised for its energy, charm, and vocal prowess, making her a standout in the cast.

Bryan Cranston in Network

Bryan Cranston, best known for his role as Walter White in the hit television series “Breaking Bad,” has made a triumphant return to Broadway in the play “Network.” Based on the 1976 film of the same name, “Network” is a satirical commentary on the state of the media and its influence on society. Cranston plays the role of Howard Beale, a veteran news anchor who becomes unhinged on live television and begins a revolution against the corporate overlords of his network.

Cranston’s performance has been widely praised by critics and audiences alike, with many citing his ability to balance humor and pathos in his portrayal of Beale. His stage presence and commanding voice have been noted as particularly impressive, and he has been credited with bringing a new level of energy and excitement to the production.

Jeff Daniels in To Kill a Mockingbird

Jeff Daniels, a highly regarded actor known for his work in films such as “The Squid and the Whale” and “Good Night, and Good Luck,” has also made a splash on Broadway in the play “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Based on the classic novel by Harper Lee, the play tells the story of a young girl named Scout and her experiences growing up in a small southern town during the Great Depression.

Daniels plays the role of Atticus Finch, the wise and moral center of the story. His performance has been widely acclaimed, with many critics praising his nuanced portrayal of a complex and flawed character. Daniels has been credited with bringing a sense of warmth and humanity to the role, making Atticus a relatable and sympathetic figure despite his flaws.

Laurie Metcalf in The Waverly Gallery

Laurie Metcalf, a beloved actress known for her work on television shows such as “Roseanne” and “The Big Bang Theory,” has also impressed audiences on Broadway in the play “The Waverly Gallery.” The play, written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Bruce Norris, tells the story of a group of artists and activists who come together to fight for the preservation of an affordable housing complex in New York City.

Metcalf plays the role of Gladys, a fierce and cantankerous old woman who is the matriarch of the building. Her performance has been widely praised, with many critics citing her ability to balance humor and pathos in her portrayal of a complex and difficult character. Metcalf has been credited with bringing a sense of warmth and humanity to the role, making Gladys a sympathetic and relatable figure despite her flaws.

FAQs

1. What are the currently running Broadway shows?

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, some of the currently running Broadway shows include: Hamilton, The Lion King, Wicked, Aladdin, Mean Girls, Dear Evan Hansen, To Kill a Mockingbird, Frozen, Jersey Boys, Mary Poppins, Chicago, Ain’t Too Proud, Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, and Beetlejuice. It’s important to note that this list may have changed by the time you’re reading this. You can check out a comprehensive list of current Broadway shows on the official Broadway website or a reliable theatre news source.

2. How can I buy tickets for these shows?

You can buy tickets for Broadway shows through various sources, including the official Broadway website, online ticket brokers, or directly from the show’s box office. It’s always best to book your tickets well in advance to secure your preferred dates and seats. You can also consider subscribing to a Broadway subscription service, which often offers discounted tickets and priority access to shows.

3. Are there any new shows premiering on Broadway soon?

Yes, there are always new shows premiering on Broadway. While I can’t provide a comprehensive list of upcoming shows, as my knowledge is up to September 2021, you can check out the official Broadway website or a reliable theatre news source for the latest updates on upcoming shows and their premiere dates.

4. What is the best way to experience Broadway shows?

Experiencing Broadway shows can be a memorable experience. Arrive early to get settled in your seats, read up on the show’s background and cast, and consider dining at a nearby restaurant before the show. During the show, try to immerse yourself in the performance, paying attention to the acting, music, and stage design. After the show, you can share your thoughts with friends or family and discuss the experience.

5. How long are Broadway shows typically?

The duration of Broadway shows can vary depending on the production. Typically, a Broadway show can last anywhere from 2 to 3 hours, including intermission. However, some shows may run shorter or longer, so it’s always a good idea to check the show’s website or program for the approximate runtime.