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: For Good movie excitement.
The Perfect Show for Your Nostalgic Aunt Who Knows Every Disney Lyric
The Lion King
Minskoff Theatre
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 10 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 They’ll be loving the historical references while tapping their feet to the beat.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 Dark-Humored Friend Who Swears Black Is Their Happy Color
Death Becomes Her
Lunt-Fontanne Theatre
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
Marquis Theatre
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 Little Daydreamer Who Loves Magic Carpets and Spellbinding Genies
Aladdin
New Amsterdamn Theatre
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 History-Nerd Friend Who Quotes the Founding Fathers
Hamilton
Richard Rodgers Theatre
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 refreshing take on the Founding Fathers that will have them recounting facts long after the applause.
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)
Maybe Happy Ending
Belasco Theatre
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 Music-Loving Friend Who Can’t Resist a Story of Redemption
Hell’s Kitchen
Shubert Theatre
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’s 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
The Outsiders
Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre
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.
The Perfect Show for Your friend Whose Favorite Artist Hasn’t Changed Since the ’80s
MJ: The Musical
Neil Simon Theatre
When asked what kind of music they listen to, they give the same answer they’ve been giving since the second grade. They’re entranced by all things choreography, and have an unparalleled respect for a good stage outfit. Centered around the making of Michael Jackson’s 1992 Dangerous World Tour, MJ is sure to excite that one Smooth Criminal in your life.
The Perfect Show for Your Painfully Optimistic Friend Who Loves Love (and New York City)
Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York)
Longacre Theatre
They daydream about meeting The One during their morning subway commute. Someone will spill their coffee, the lights will unconventionally dim, and the whole train car will burst into song. Well, in their head, at least. Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) will hit all the right notes of exploration, excitement, new relationships, and bright futures. With a light tone of enemies-to-it’s-complicated, this new musical rom-com will hit the spot for anyone looking for quintessential modern musical theater.
The Perfect Show for the One Who Thinks Every Night Out Should End in Dancing
Buena Vista Social Club
Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre
They’re the first one up when the music starts, and the last to leave the dance floor. They always somehow seem to know the steps, even if they’ve never taken a salsa class in their life. They usually don’t call it a night until the DJ asks them to leave. Take them to the Tony Award–winning Buena Vista Social Club, where they’ll be met with all of the fiery horns, pulsing rhythms, and infectious choreography they could dream of.
The Perfect Show for That Person Who Uses Humor as a Coping Mechanism
No matter what they’re going through, you can always count on them for some good dark humor. If they like to turn tragedy into an absurd punchline, then they’ll love this twisted take on history: Oh, Mary! It’s smart, boozy, and just a little bit wrong in all the right ways.
So there you have it — 15 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!
