Whether you’re an avid Broadway fan who has yet to make the pilgrimage to New York City to see a show, or you’re a theater-curious traveler planning your trip and thinking of adding a performance to your itinerary, choosing which Broadway show to see first can feel like a big decision. Though we’re confident that whatever you see, you’ll walk out having had an entertainment experience unlike any other that will surely have you coming back for more, here are a few suggestions of where to start based on what kind of vibe you’re going for.
For exciting spectacle, powerful vocals, a heartfelt story, and a score that perfectly blends classic and contemporary Broadway, see Wicked
One of Broadway’s best-known shows in the mainstream world (and bound to become even more preeminent with the release of the film adaptation starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande releasing this November), you really can’t go wrong with Wicked. It has the classic structure of a musical with boundless contemporary elements – some vocals might feel more pop-leaning, which can be more accessible if you’re not quite used to musical theater. It’s an all-around astonishing show, with stunning special effects (without giving spoilers, let’s just say that if there’s a witch with a broomstick, you can guess what magic might unfold!), glittering costumes, an energetic ensemble, sweeping choreography, and an irresistibly catchy score that you’ll certainly be humming (or belting) all the way home. Above all else, it has a strong story of friendship, courage, and self-discovery that anyone can relate to.
For an epic theatrical hip-hop score, masterful storytelling, and the most invigorating history lesson of your life, see Hamilton
Odds are, you’ve heard a song from Hamilton. This Tony Award–sweeping remix on American history has become a cultural phenomenon for a reason. Its original cast recording broke into the mainstream in the mid 2010s — a rare feat for a modern musical — thanks to its (pun-unintended) revolutionary fusion of two genres of music that have not often intersected. With just the music alone, anyone is bound to be hooked. But come for the music and stay for everything else, because Hamilton hits all the marks: showstopping vocal performances (if you haven’t heard it already, listen to “Satisfied” and you’ll see what we mean), inspiring acting, and dynamic choreography you won’t be able to take your eyes off of for a second.
For some good old Disney magic and acclaimed puppet artistry, see The Lion King
Whether you have kids or just want to indulge your inner child, you can’t go wrong with a Disney show, and there’s always a handful running on Broadway. Aladdin currently runs at the New Amsterdam Theatre, and Frozen, The Little Mermaid, and Beauty and the Beast have all graced the Broadway stage in recent decades. The Lion King sets itself apart as Broadway’s third longest-running show with its innovative and culturally rich puppetry. Inspired by traditional African art, history, and culture, this Disney favorite beautifully honors its source material with an elevated experience that brings Pride Rock to life onstage through sweeping choreography, life-sized animal puppets and costumes, and a beloved score by Elton John that features all your favorites and a few new surprises.
For an indie-folk jazzy score, earnest acting, and a fresh but still organic spin on a classic myth, see Hadestown
If your Spotify Wrapped playlist often includes the likes of Bon Iver or even Taylor Swift’s folklore, or if you were that kid in elementary school with a hyperfixation on Greek mythology, Hadestown is surely the way to go. Singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell crafted a concept album of the musical in 2010, featuring vocals from many of her fellow indie-folk artists, and by the end of the decade, it was a fully formed show that took Broadway by storm. It transforms the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice into a postapocalyptic, Great Depression–era world, underneath which Hades operates as an oppressive overlord, exploiting factory workers desperate to pull themselves out of poverty. Eurydice, desperate, makes her way down to Hadestown, and Orpheus embarks on a journey to rescue her. With unique use of a rotating set, stunning choreography, and live music and vocals so raw and organic that it feels like you are witnessing a Greek chorus come to life, Hadestown has something for everyone, but especially for creatives at heart.
For a classic Broadway musical-comedy that has had audiences laughing for over a decade (and with writing credits that can convince your dad, uncle, or brother to come along), see The Book of Mormon
This staple Broadway comedy has been bringing on the laughter since 2011. Written by South Park scribes Trey Parker, Robert Lopez, and Matt Stone, the musical follows two clueless Mormon missionaries as they attempt to preach to locals in Uganda, who are unfazed by their cheerful demeanors and persistence. Chaos ensues as the missionaries escalate their tactics to get through to the locals, their attempts growing in hilarity with each song. Not only is this musical outrageously funny, it has a great score, which has earned a loyal following of fans throughout the years.
For a gritty, grassroots adaptation of a classic novel that emphasizes storytelling without skimping on good music, see The Outsiders
Whether you’re a bookworm or just someone who appreciates a well-written story in any form (and especially if you appreciate the 1983 film of the same name), The Outsiders offers a highly emotionally resonant story that will tug at your heartstrings in all the ways a drama should, plus a gorgeous score that you’ll want to keep listening to long after you leave the theatre. The show’s standout acting performances have earned wide acclaim, so even if you aren’t used to seeing performances play out live onstage through song, these expert actors will make it easy to follow along.