The 10 Best Musicals Based On Books | The Odyssey Online
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The 10 Best Musicals Based On Books

The most exciting part of reading is seeing it brought to life.

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The 10 Best Musicals Based On Books
Heidi Bohnenkamp

With Broadway shows dating back to the early 1900's, it's kind of amazing how many theatrical productions are not original ideas. Though there are so many shows based on books. There are some that stand out more than others. It's impossible to list every single show, but these are the most successful or influential musicals of this subgenre.

1. "Hamilton"

Based on the book "Alexander Hamilton" by Rob Chekhov, Broadway powerhouse Lin-Manuel Miranda took this piece of literature and brought it to life in a way that no one would expect. Rather than producing stereotypical showtunes, Miranda and composer Alex Lacamoire decided to showcase this show through a variety of genres. While the main genre is rap/hip-hop, there are some slower songs, mixed in with a few upbeat pop songs. Incorporate a lack of set that is instead filled with precise choreography, and you have one of Broadway's greatest hits of the past five years.


2. "Natasha, Pierre, and The Great Comet of 1812"

Though this show did not last as long as it should have, many people went in wondering how it was going to play out. This show, taken from a 70-page slice of "War and Peace: by Leo Tolstoy," transports you right into 19-century Russia. From there, you become part of the show in one way or another. Though it was confusing at times, the operatic feel gave new life to Broadway, incorporating traditional Russian inspired music mixed with House/EDM gives it a strange, yet enticing atmosphere.


3. "James and the Giant Peach"

"Right before your eyes," this magical production, based on the book of the same name by Roald Dahl, brings to life the tale of James, a small orphan boy who discovers a peach that grows to fantastical sizes. With bright colors and extravagant costumes, this show will stick in your memory for years to come. Though it never made it to Broadway, this show made a lasting impression in the Off-Broadway community. Let's also not forget who wrote the toe-tapping music, Tony Award-winning duo Pasek and Paul, who are now famous for their most recent projects: Oscar-winning "La La Land" and Tony Award-winning "Dear Evan Hansen."


4. "Cabaret"

Very few know this, but this classic show is actually based on the novel "Goodbye To Berlin" by Christopher Isherwood. The show, set in pre-Nazi Germany, depicts Isherwood's accounts and the people who could be most at risk during the Holocaust. With catchy tunes, an androgynous emcee, and strategic choreography, there's no denying that this show will remain a classic for years to come.


5. "Cats"

"This musical showcases a group of cats in a junkyard that doesn't really follow a storyline. The costumes, set, and music are interesting, but it is an energetic show that everyone can enjoy.


6. "Wicked"

This classic is actually based on two books. The first is "Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West" by Gregory Maguire, which is the prequel to "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" by L. Frank Baum. In this show, you get introduced to The Wicked Witch of the West, whose name is discovered to Elphaba, and her experience in school. The memorable score by Stephen Schwartz and the detailed set bring to life the story before the story and make you wish you could be a part of the narrative.


7. "Matilda"

Another show based on a Roald Dahl children's book, "Matilda" brings to life the classic story and makes you want to be a kid all over again. The whimsical set made of books and cast full of children, it's nearly impossible to forget this show. The score is one that everyone can relate to, whether you're 5 or 95, especially the song "When I Grow Up". Revisiting your childhood is something that very few shows can master, and "Matilda" will make you want to go out, buy a Razor scooter, and ride everywhere.


8. "Tuck Everlasting"

Personally, I love this show. After reading the book in seventh grade, I fell in love with the story of immortality and friendship. Inspired by Natalie Babbitt's children's novel of the same name, you meet the entire Tuck family who drank from their version of the fountain of youth. You are also introduced to Winnie Foster, a girl who is forced to make a difficult decision. With a whimsical set and high-energy dancing, mixed with folk-esque music, this show is something that all children would love.


9. "The Color Purple"

Possibly the most influential show on this list, this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name written by Alice Walker, which was later adapted into a movie starring Oprah Winfrey, tells the struggles of African American women in the 1930's. Set in rural Georgia, the jazz-inspired music and deep storylines could make any grown men cry. Even if you can't relate to it personally, it's an enjoyable show filled with sisterly love, community, and love for one another.


10. "Seussical"

This one is kind of a no-brainer. Based on an array of children's books written by Dr. Seuss, the colorful and eye-catching set brings to life your favorite childhood stories, all the while being lead by "The Cat In The Hat" itself! With music that will be stuck in your head for weeks to follow and recognizable characters, no one can resist a feel-good show like "Seussical."

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
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