Musicals have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I grew up on singing show tunes, and wanting to be on that stage. This helped me pursue singing and critique the choreography on stage. There's always something magical about the theatre. It's truly a place for everyone. In no particular order, here is a list of my top ten must see musicals.
1. The Phantom of the Opera
The longest show on Broadway, Phantom of the Opera is a classic. Everyone who loves musicals must see this if they haven't already. I grew up listening to this soundtrack in the car and watching the film with my grandmother. It has mystery, love, and incredible vocals. I never get tired of it.
2. Wicked
Wicked is another musical I grew up loving. Family friendly, humorous, and a great story for everyone. Wicked teaches valuable lessons about friendship and more. The music is catchy and is a great spin on a timeless classic
3. Chicago
Chicago is another long running classic. It's on the mature side with murder, romance, and sexy outfits. The show is great for jazz lovers, especially of Bob Fosse. The show is stylized, yet still very entertaining with a flare of humor.
4. Hamilton
Everyone has probably already heard of this one due to the crazy fame it has received over the past two to three years. I loved the music before I saw the show, and seeing it live was the icing on the cake. The show is truly phenomenal with a great storyline. It teaches a great lesson, as well as about our own American history. Don't worry, it's definitely not boring. New productions of Hamilton have opened around the US, including one in the UK. This is a show for all ages and I imagine it will continue to be famous for a long time.
5. Dear Evan Hansen
Another current show and winner of Best Musical this past year, Dear Evan Hansen is a great show dealing with mental health and other topics not easily discussed in society. The music is great. It also has a meaningful message and storyline. I encourage everyone to try to see this show while it is still on Broadway.
6. Next to Normal
This show is no longer on Broadway, but I encourage you to see a local showing or possibly a revival in the future. This show also tackles mental illness and how it affects the family dynamic. It's a great story of a mother's love and coping. The music and vocals are fantastic. The sons are catchy despite some more sad parts of the show. I felt that this show was powerful and that most people should see it despite it not being overly popular.
7. Kinky Boots
A fun musical, following the story of shoemaker Charlie and drag queen Lola trying to come up with inspiration to save Charlie's factory. The music is upbeat and definitely one to dance to. It's entertaining with a great story. The family will love it.
8. The Lion King
The show best known for it's puppets, the Lion King is a must see if you have children or love the classic movie. Still currently running on Broadway, the Lion King is truly unique. The actors melt away as you are truly taken aback by the costumes. Definitely a dazzler.
9. The Book of Mormon
This show took me by surprise, but is definitely at the top of my list. If you're easily offended it might not be for you. They find a way to insult everyone in the audience, while also creating one of the funniest atmospheres. The show is so obscene that you can't help but laugh. Not for children, but great for an outing for parents. A must see!
10. Rent
Rent is another classic that I feel everyone should at least see once in their life. The music is great. The storyline covers so many different aspects of life, such as love, homelessness, disease, and acceptance. The show was groundbreaking in making HIV/AIDS a more talked about and normalized illness. Definitely one to see to get a glimpse into the fight against the growing discovery of HIV/AIDS in the US.
Final Thoughts:
I have had the amazing opportunity to see all of these amazing shows. I love almost every show I see and I wish I could add more to this list. This is a hand full of shows that stood out a little above the rest. I encourage everyone to support their local theatre and see all of the shows they can. The theatre is a great experience with so many life lessons. It is also a great thing to introduce to children. An event the whole family can enjoy! I promise these shows will not disappoint.
