Musical theater is believed to have begun in ancient Greece about 2,500 years ago, and amazingly, it is still popular today. Over the years, thousands of musicals have been written and performed worldwide, but have you ever wondered which one is the best? Let’s take a look at ten must-see musicals of all time.
West Side Story
West Side Story is a timeless musical that reimagines Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet against the gritty backdrop of 1950s New York City. The story is told through the eyes of warring teenage gangs and first debuted on Broadway in 1957. Somehow, it still feels fresh with every revival and tour.
Jesus Christ Superstar
Jesus Christ Superstar is a rock opera written by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. It re-tells the story of Jesus’ last week on Earth in the most 70s way possible. This musical debuted in 1970 and is still one of the best.
Les Misérables
This musical is based on the Victor Hugo novel of the same name. It re-tells the story of the French Revolution and is a frequently revived Broadway classic. It is known for its explosive ballads. This is another must-see musical.
Tommy
Tommy is a Broadway adaptation of the Who’s 1969 rock opera of the same name. It gives new life to the story of Tommy Walker, who loses his sense of sight, speech, and hearing and becomes a pinball prodigy.
Cabaret
Cabaret is set in the grungy Kit Kat Klub during the rise of Nazi power in Berlin. The story revolves around Sally Bowles and Cliff Bradshaw, who meet in the club. Cabaret hit Broadway in 1966, but the 1998 revival by Sam Mendes is the most iconic incarnation of this musical.
Rent
Rent revolves around the late 80s and early 90s health and money crises. Set in New York City’s East Village, it is based on the opera La Bohème. Rent tells the story of a group of friends and artists struggling with inspiration, HIV/AIDS, and paying the rent.
The Rocky Horror Show
Rocky Horror Picture Show tells the story of sweet transvestite Dr. Frank N. Furter and his ghoulish castle. One night, while driving in a vicious storm, vanilla couple Brad and Janet’s car breaks down, and they walk to the castle to get some help. What follows is one of the most entertaining musicals you will ever see.
Hamilton
In recent years, Hamilton has soared in popularity. The story revolves around one of the United States’ lesser-known Founding Fathers through the lens of immigrant narrative. This musical has earned many rewards, including Grammys and Tonys.
Guys and Dolls
Guys and Dolls revolves around the gritty underworld of gambling and is known for its incredible sense of humor and charm. It first reached Broadway in 1950 and has returned almost ever decade since then. It’s certainly worth the watch!
A Chorus Line
A Chorus Line was one of the biggest Broadway hits of the 70s and highlights the tales of dancers while they are preparing for an audition. This musical explores the dancers’ personal histories in the most entertaining way possible. In 1976, it won Best Musical, Best Choreography, and many acting categories at the Tony Awards.
