The holidays are just around the corner, and we’re all on the hunt for that perfect gift to delight the special people in our lives. If you’ve got a Broadway lover on your gift list (or maybe a few!), we’ve got you covered. Whether they’re into heart-pounding drama, toe-tapping tunes, or shows that make them laugh till they cry, there’s a Broadway show for every personality and passion. This guide is your ticket to finding the perfect show for everyone—because nothing says “thoughtful gift” like a night on Broadway.
The Perfect Show for Your Friend Who Belts Show Tunes in the Shower
They’re the one who can hit all the high notes in “Defying Gravity” without breaking a sweat and insists that Elphaba was misunderstood. Take them to see Wicked, where they can finally witness their favorite anthems performed with flying witches and magical lights. Bonus points if they’ve been wanting to go during this Wicked movie excitement.
The Perfect Show for Your Nostalgic Aunt Who Knows Every Disney Lyric
For the one who gets misty-eyed at “Circle of Life” and still sings along to “Hakuna Matata” with genuine gusto, The Lion King will be a magical experience. She’ll be swept away by the unforgettable costumes, thundering drums, and the sunset over Pride Rock that’ll make her feel like she’s ten years old again.
The Perfect Show for Your History Buff Bestie Who Secretly Wishes They Were a Tudor
They know the difference between Catherine of Aragon and Anne of Cleves and have opinions on Henry VIII’s reign. Treat them to SIX, where the six queens of his court reclaim their stories with sass, sequins, and pop-star power. They’ll be loving the historical references while tapping their feet to the beat.
The Perfect Show for Your Merry Maker Cousin Who Starts Christmas Music in October
If their holiday cheer is infectious and they’ve seen Elf the movie more times than they can count, this musical is their perfect match. The candy-cane bright sets, Buddy’s misadventures, and feel-good carols will have them spreading Christmas joy long after the curtain falls.
The Perfect Show for Your Dark-Humored Friend Who Swears Black Is Their Happy Color
They revel in the macabre but also love a laugh, especially when it’s as sharp as a killer’s wit. Death Becomes Her, with its satirical take on vanity and immortality, will have them cackling and questioning beauty standards—all while adoring the stunning costumes worn by Megan Hilty, Jennifer Simard, and Michelle Williams.
The Perfect Show for Your Teen Who Thinks They Would Have Survived the Upside Down
Stranger Things: The First Shadow
For the kid who binged the show, knows all the Demogorgon facts, and insists they’d be the hero of Hawkins, this prequel will be a treat. Watch as they light up when they meet familiar characters and discover more Stranger Things lore.
The Perfect Show for Your Daydreamer Little One Who Loves Magic Carpets and Spellbinding Genies
If they’ve ever imagined themselves on a flying carpet or befriended a magical genie, Aladdin will spark their wildest dreams. With breathtaking choreography, vivid costumes, and, of course, “A Whole New World,” it’ll be an adventure they won’t soon forget.
The Perfect Show for Your Music-Loving Mom Who Reminisces About the ’70s
She’ll love the glitz, gospel-infused songs, and the heartfelt story of the enigmatic televangelist. With catchy tunes by Elton John, Tammy Faye is an exploration of love, faith, and fame that will remind her of the music she played when you were a kid.
The Perfect Show for Your History Nerd Friend Who Quotes the Founding Fathers
They’ve been rapping “My Shot” since 2015 and insist they’d totally win a duel. Hamilton will blow them away (pun intended) with its smart lyrics, rapid-fire delivery, and a refreshing take on the Founding Fathers that will have them recounting facts long after the applause.
The Perfect Show for Your Adventurous Sibling Who Would Move to a Forest Commune Tomorrow
This one’s for the nature-loving, introspective sibling who dreams of life among the trees and connecting to deep roots. Redwood starring Idina Menzel weaves together strength, resilience, and healing into a story that’s as warm and grounding as a forest trail.
The Perfect Show for Your Lover of Greek Mythology (and Great Jazz)
They’re the type who devours every book about ancient Greece, knows the difference between Persephone and Demeter, and has a secret crush on Hades. Hadestown is the perfect blend of myth and music, where jazz-infused melodies and a hauntingly beautiful story of love and fate will transport them straight to the underworld. The music is mesmerizing and the storytelling is as timeless as the myths themselves.
The Perfect Show for Your Romantic Friend Who Believes in Happily Ever After (But With a Twist)
They’ve been dreaming of a soulmate since they could spell “romantic comedy,” and they’ve read all the “feel-good but with a twist” books. Maybe Happy Ending will captivate them with its charming, heartfelt exploration of love and second chances. Think of it as a magical love story for the hopeful realist – one that’ll make them laugh, sigh, and maybe even make a playlist for their own version of happily-ever-after.
The Perfect Show for Your Theater-Obsessed Friend Who’s Always Asking, “But What’s the Setting?”
For your friend who’s deeply fascinated by both the art of performance and the gritty, immersive atmosphere of a show, Cabaret is their ultimate stage. They love the complexity of characters, the danger of a world teetering on the brink, and the allure of the cabaret itself. Between the wild performances and the politically charged tension, they’ll be swept up by its intoxicating energy and revel in the freedom of its dark, decadent world.
The Perfect Show for Your Star-Ready, Ambitious Friend Who Dreamed of Being on Broadway
If they’ve ever dreamed of becoming a star, center stage, with all the glitz and glam that the theater world promises, Gypsy will speak to their heart. This musical, about a mother’s drive for stardom and a daughter’s reluctant rise to fame, is the epitome of Broadway ambition. They’ll identify with the fight for the spotlight—and secretly wish they could belt “Let Me Entertain You” as if it were their own anthem.
The Perfect Show for Your Music-Loving Friend Who Can’t Resist a Story of Redemption
For the friend who thrives on powerful music and stories of resilience, Hell’s Kitchen is the perfect choice. This musical, set in New York’s gritty yet vibrant neighborhood, blends Alicia Keys’ soulful music with a gripping tale of personal struggle and redemption. Your friend will be moved by the heartfelt performances, raw emotion, and fierce determination of the characters to rise above their circumstances. If they love a show that hits all the right notes – both musically and emotionally – Hell’s Kitchen will leave them inspired and humming its unforgettable songs long after the curtain falls.
The Perfect Show for Your Rebel at Heart Who’s Always Rooting for the Underdog
They’ve read the book at least a dozen times, quote Johnny and Ponyboy like it’s scripture, and their heart always beats a little faster when the underdog finally gets a chance. The Outsiders on stage will resonate with their desire for justice, friendship, and loyalty against the backdrop of a turbulent world. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s a fight for something bigger than themselves – just like they are.
So there you have it – 16 Broadway shows perfectly matched with the unique people who would love them. Whether you’re treating a friend to their dream musical or surprising a loved one with a night of theater magic, these show recommendations are sure to light up their holiday season. And who knows? You might even end up with a standing ovation of your own when you hand over those tickets!