For those who are book obsessed, this season on Broadway is perfect for you! Whether you’re deciding on which show to see or are curious about the origins of a amazing show you recently saw, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to discover which current Broadway productions began as novels, a treat for both theatre and book lovers!
The Picture of Dorian Gray
If you’re a fan of Oscar Wilde’s timeless novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, the current Broadway play, starring Successions Sarah Snook, is a must see. In this production, Snook takes on all 26 roles, offering a contemporary perspective on Wilde’s classic tale of beauty, youth, and the pursuit of eternal life. For those who love Wilde’s novel, this production is a guaranteed unforgettable theatrical experience.
The Outsiders
S.E. Hinton’s story of Ponyboy Curtis and his Greaser family has resonated with generations of readers. This adaptation will take fans of the story right into the heart of Tulsa, Oklahoma, through its folk Americana music and unforgettable choreography (including an actual rumble in the rain!).
The Great Gatsby
A cornerstone of American literature, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, is alive on a Broadway stage. Fans of the novel can now experience the extravagance of the Roaring Twenties first hand and immerse themselves in the dazzling world of Gatsby’s iconic parties.
Wicked
While many associate the origins of the Broadway sensation Wicked with the movie The Wizard of Oz, its foundation also lies in Gregory Maguire’s novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West. This novel tells the story of the Wicked Witch of the West, giving her the name Elphaba, while exploring her life. For those who are Wicked obsessed and are looking for a deeper understanding of the world of Wicked, and the complexities of Elphaba’s character, Maguire’s novel is a must read.
Cabaret
While the iconic 1972 film starring Liza Minnelli might be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Cabaret, the musical’s true origin lies in Christopher Isherwood’s 1939 novel, Goodbye to Berlin. This novel would also go on to inspire the 1951 play I Am a Camera, which then served as the inspiration for the 1966 musical Cabaret, and then the film. While Cabaret has taken many forms, its core foundation has remained the same, making Isherwood’s Goodbye to Berlin, a must read for any fans of the musical.