The 25 Best Broadway Shows in NYC 2025 (Right Now!)
Must-See Broadway Shows NYC
If you’re visiting New York, seeing a Broadway show is a must – it’s definitely something to add to your bucket list! However, choosing which Broadway show to see in NYC might be confusing. To assist you, I’ve compiled a list of the top Broadway shows currently running in NYC.
Are you looking for the best Broadway shows in New York or the best Broadway shows for kids? I‘ve got you covered!
My tip: Don’t forget to check out all the Off-Broadway shows and Broadway Plays here. And here you find our complete list of Broadway shows in New York.
My TOP 10 Broadway Musicals in NYC Right Now
Too long to read? Well then, here are my current 10 favorite Broadway shows that promise you a good time – guaranteed!
#1
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| #5  | #6
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The Lion King | Wicked | MJ – The Musical | Back to the Future | Moulin Rouge | Hamilton | Aladdin | Sweeney Todd | Chicago | SIX |
The 25 Best Broadway Shows Currently Playing in New York
This is our TOP list of current Broadway shows in New York City: We’ve enjoyed some of them so much that we have seen them multiple times! We are confident that, no matter what show you go for, it will be an unforgettable experience!
If you want to learn more about Broadway, you can either go to the Museum of Broadway or take a guided Broadway walking tour, where an experienced guide will give you some information you definitely didn’t know yet! And now enjoy our list of the best shows on Broadway!
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01 Hamilton on Broadway - Best Show for Fans of Historical Shows
The Broadway musical tells the story of Alexander Hamilton, the “10 dollar founding father without a father”, who came to the United States as an orphan after a hurricane had destroyed the small Caribbean island he called his home. In the time span of almost 30 years (1773-1804) he moved to the United States, overcame poverty, fought in the American War of independence and played a major role in the United States’ first government while facing struggles and rivalry. That, however, is only one side of the story. In the musical, you will also learn about his personal life, including friendships, love, family and the country’s first affair. Even after Hamilton “throws away his shot” in the duel of 1804, his legacy lives on.
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02 Enjoy One of the Most Successful Shows on Broadway: Wicked!
If you are on vacation in New York, you should see one of the many great musicals. One of them is Wicked. For 10 years this famous musical has been on Broadway. It tells the so far mysterious story of the Witches of Oz around the green-skinned witch Elphaba and her special friendship with the witch Glinda.
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03 The Best Broadway Show for Disney Fans: The Lion King
This touching musical tells the story of Simba, who has a difficult path to the throne ahead of him and must assert himself against his evil uncle Scar. It is about fear, courage, the meaning of life and that you must never give up. Based on the Disney film, this musical developed into a Broadway hit and impresses hundreds of visitors every day. When it comes to musicals, The Lion King is as good as it gets!
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04 Moulin Rouge is One of the Top Shows on Broadway for Adults
Moulin Rouge surely blew us away! It is one of the most entertaining musicals I have seen. The way the performers worked the crowd was unparalleled. Everybody had a great time and the applause after each musical number reflected the excitement in the theater. Moulin Rouge made sure to keep the audience entertained at all times. Before the show even started, artists on the stage set the mood for a licentious Parisian burlesque show. The final musical number even had the entire audience clapping, singing and dancing along.
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05 Watch Broadway's longest-running Show Chicago
Chicago is the hottest musical Broadway has ever seen in New York. The show at the Ambassador Theater offers a passionate mixture of love and lies, glory and vanity, fraud and betrayal, sex and crime – in addition there is excellent jazz and unique dance scenes in the lifestyle of the 1920s.
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06 Laugh at the Finest Comedic Plot in The Book of Mormon
The Book of Mormon on Broadway is probably one of the most entertaining musicals in New York. Since its debut in 2011, it has not only caused a lot of controversies but also won 9 Tony Awards. At first, you may expect a show that’s making fun of the Mormon religion entirely, but that is not true. You will see that the musical does not only mock Mormonism but religion in general. No one is spared, not even Jesus or Darth Vader! The intent of The Book of Mormon Musical is not to offend anyone, but to ultimately endorse positive power: It doesn’t matter what you believe in, as long as it can give you hope and make you stronger.
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07 Best Broadway Show for Lovers of Greek Mythology: Hadestown
Hadestown’s musical had already been on the billboard of the New York Theatre Workshop, off Broadway, for some years. However, it has now earned a place among the best musicals and shows in New York, and you can find it on Broadway at the Walter Kerr Theatre.
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08 Aladdin is a Great Show for Kids and Adults
Who doesn’t know the story of Aladdin and his magic lamp? On Broadway, the stage show by Casey Nicholaw enchants hundreds of spectators daily. Jasmine, the genie in the bottle and the flying carpet make this musical a favorite of many kids and adults alike.
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09 Another Top Choice on Broadway: SIX
Six Broadway New York offers top-notch and entertaining entertainment for the entire family. The characters of the six main actresses were inspired by pop stars such as Rihanna, Ariana Grande and Adele. You can look forward to an impressive evening that evolves from an historical and ironic reappraisal of sorrow and suffering to a boisterous party like a pop concert. The musical Six has been performed in London’s West End, in Chicago, in Boston, in Edmonton, in Sydney, and on several cruise ships. Now Six can be seen on the legendary Broadway in New York.
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10 The Greatest Show for Potterheads: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is an original new story by J.K. Rowling. The story takes place many years after Harry Potter’s last adventure “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” at the end of which, Harry, Hermione, Ron, and Draco are bringing their own children to the Hogwarts Express.
When Harry Potter’s son Albus first arrives at Hogwarts, not only must he face the challenge of living up to his famous father’s reputation but also must carve his own path in the school’s hallowed halls. Nothing is ever simple in Hogwarts and Albus’ adventure is both nostalgic for fans of the original series and packs plenty of its own twists and surprises for seasoned and new viewers alike.
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11 A Musical About One of the Most famous Musicians Michael Jackson: MJ The Musical
MJ The Musical in New York tells the successful story of the artist Michael Jackson and takes you back once again to the most important events of his time. It revisits his life through more than 25 of his biggest and best-selling songs and through his unique show-stopping performances. The energetic musical also offers exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpses from 1992, when the King of Pop was preparing for his Dangerous World Tour. Relive the most memorable moments of his story on Broadway!
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12 Best Musical Revival: Little Shop of Horrors
The world’s most voracious plant is back where it belongs – on Broadway! Little Shop of Horrors is based on Roger Corman’s 1960 movie Little Shop. The story follows a timid plant store employee named Seymour, his crush and co-worker Audrey, her psycho boyfriend, and of course, the man-eating plant we all know and love. The production stars Emmy Award-winning actress Tammy Blanchard, Tony Award-nominated Rob McClure, and two-time Tony Award winner Christian Borle. Together this talented group brings the show to life, so don’t miss your chance to see Little Shop of Horrors on Broadway now!
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13 Finest Comedy for all Ages: The Play That Goes Wrong
Are you ready for Broadway’s funniest show? The Play That Goes Wrong is directed by Matt DiCarlo and has been running since 2019. The comedy earned an Olivier Award for Best Comedy with its intense humor, that’s a cross between Sherlock Holmes and Monty Python. The story begins on the opening night of The Murder at Haversham Manor – the newest production from Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society. It’s a whodunit reminiscent of the 1920s and is everything you’ve always wished for on a Broadway stage. The leading lady has a concussion, the set is ramshackle, and even the corpse can’t figure out how to play dead.
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14 Best Bubble Artistry on Broadway: Gazillion Bubble Show
Are you looking for a fun Broadway show that’s kid-friendly? Check out the Gazillion Bubble Show at New World Stages. Created by Fan Yang, the Gazillion Bubble Show that is designed like an air light slip that’s actually a children’s variety show built on one subject. Fan Yang, also known as the Master of Bubbles, brought his unique and exciting brand of bubble artistry to Broadway in 2007. And since then, he’s been wowing crowds of all ages.
Families love this show because it features Fan Yang, his wife, two children, and his brother. Expect to see lots of mind-blowing bubble magic, striking laser light shows, and you may even find yourself inside of a bubble!
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15 A Different Ending for the Greatest Love Story Ever Told: & Juliet
Let’s be honest; who isn’t a fan of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet? This Olivier Award winner flips the script on an age-old love story, imagining what life would have been like for Juliet had she lived. What would she have done with a second chance at life? A second chance at love? Catch & Juliet, which begins previews in October, to find out!
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16 The Great Gatsby
Step into the lavish world of the 1920s as F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic American novel comes to life on the grandest American stage. Featuring Jeremy Jordan (known for Newsies) as the enigmatic millionaire Jay Gatsby and Eva Noblezada (renowned from Hadestown) as the enigmatic Daisy Buchanan, The Great Gatsby makes its Broadway debut following a record-breaking, sold-out run at the Paper Mill Playhouse.
Helmed by director Marc Bruni (of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical fame), this tale of opulence and desire boasts choreography by Dominique Kelley (of So You Think You Can Dance), a script by Kait Kerrigan (from The Mad Ones), and an original score infused with jazz and pop sensibilities by Jason Howland (known for Little Women) and Nathan Tysen (of Paradise Square). Don’t miss out on the extravaganza—secure your tickets now for the musical that The New York Times hails as “sumptuous, enchanting, and stunning!”
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17 Cabaret
Welcome. Bienvenue. Welcome to the captivating embrace of the Kit Kat Club. Prepare for an electrifying and intimate rendition of Cabaret that promises to redefine your experience of this groundbreaking musical.
Within the August Wilson Theatre, the Kit Kat Club stands as a decadent haven, where a diverse community of artists, performers, and nonconformists reigns supreme. Immerse yourself in their world, the vibrant heart of Berlin. Here, you can let loose, unwind, and truly be yourself.
This spring, the hottest ticket in London graces Broadway, with the acclaimed Academy and Tony Award-winning Eddie Redmayne returning to embody the Emcee, alongside the introduction of Gayle Rankin as the mesmerizing Sally Bowles, the toast of Mayfair.
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18 The Outsiders
Set in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1967, the resolute spirits and pained hearts of Ponyboy Curtis, Johnny Cade, and their close-knit group of “outsiders” grapple with the challenges of survival and the pursuit of meaning in a world that may forever view them as outsiders. This compelling new musical revives the enduring narrative of camaraderie among brothers and the aspirations we all cling to. It breathes fresh life into the timeless story of societal divisions, defending one’s possessions, and the relentless struggle for a brighter future.
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19 Hell's Kitchen on Broadway
In a vibrant metropolis where the city’s pulse becomes music, where every street corner conceals a tale, and every window frames a mesmerizing view, lies Hell’s Kitchen. This is the backdrop for a fresh Broadway musical, created by the 15-time Grammy Award-winning artist Alicia Keys, set to breathe new life into the heart of the theater district. It’s a story where a young woman can step out of her apartment and discover the world, where the essence of Hell’s Kitchen promises to redefine the Broadway experience.
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20 Gypsy
The musical Gypsy tells the story of Rose, an ambitious stage mother who does everything she can to make her daughters successful in show business, with a focus on her daughter Louise, who later became famous as the burlesque artist Gypsy Rose Lee. The current Broadway production, starring Audra McDonald, is playing at the Majestic Theatre.
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21 Sunset Boulevard
Sunset Boulevard is a musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber that tells the tragic story of Norma Desmond, a former silent film diva who dreams of a comeback in Hollywood. The current Broadway production is being performed at the St. James Theatre. Nicole Scherzinger shines in the leading role of Norma Desmond, accompanied by Tom Francis as Joe Gillis.
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22 Death Becomes Her
Death Becomes Her is a musical based on the 1992 film of the same name, which tells the story of two women in a dangerous competition for eternal youth and beauty. The Broadway production is performed at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre. The leading roles are brilliantly played by Megan Hilty as Madeline Ashton and Jennifer Simard as Helen Sharp. The production has been highly praised by critics and described as “savage funny”.
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23 A Wonderful World: The Louis Armstrong Musical
A Wonderful World: The Louis Armstrong Musical is a Broadway musical that tells the story of legendary jazz musician Louis Armstrong, from his humble beginnings in New Orleans to his worldwide fame. The production is performed at the Studio 54 Theater. Tony Award winner James Monroe Iglehart shines in the leading role of Louis Armstrong. The production offers a deep insight into Armstrong’s life and career, supported by his own music and personal writings.
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24 Maybe Happy Ending
Maybe Happy Ending is a romantic musical that tells the story of Oliver, an obsolete helper robot, and Claire, an equally discarded android, who find unexpected friendship and maybe even love in a futuristic version of Seoul. The production is staged at the Belasco Theater in New York City. Starring Darren Criss as Oliver and newcomer Helen J. Shen as Claire, the production has been critically acclaimed and called “savage funny.”
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25 Oh, Mary!
Oh, Mary! is a dark comedy that humorously sheds light on the life of Mary Todd Lincoln, the wife of Abraham Lincoln, in the weeks leading up to his assassination. The production is being performed at the Lyceum Theatre in New York City. Cole Escola, who also wrote the play, shines in the leading role of Mary Todd Lincoln.
Other members of the ensemble are Conrad Ricamora as Mary’s husband, James Scully as Mary’s teacher, Bianca Leigh as Mary’s companion and Tony Macht as Mary’s husband’s assistant. The production has been praised by critics and described as “one of the best comedies in years”.
Upcoming Broadway Shows in 2025
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01 Redwood
Redwood is a new musical that follows the journey of Jesse, a successful woman seeking refuge after a life-altering event in the majestic redwood forests of Northern California. There she encounters people and experiences that change her life forever.
The leading role of Jesse is played by Tony Award® winner Idina Menzel, known for her outstanding performances in musicals such as Wicked and Rent.
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02 Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical (starting March 2025)
Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical tells the true and humorous story of a secret operation during World War II in which the Allies used a corpse with fake documents to deceive the German military.
The production will be staged at the John Golden Theater on Broadway, with an official premiere on March 20, 2025. The musical won the Olivier Award for Best New Musical and received rave reviews during its run in London’s West End.
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03 Buena Vista Social Club (starting March 2025)
Buena Vista Social Club is a new Broadway musical that sheds light on the making of the iconic 1997 album and tells the story of a group of Cuban musicians who brought the unique sound of Havana to the world. Performances will be at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre beginning in March 2025.
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04 The Last Five Years (starting April 2025)
The Last Five Years is an intimate musical by Jason Robert Brown that follows the five-year relationship between aspiring writer Jamie Wellerstein and struggling actress Cathy Hiatt.
The narrative is characterized by its unique structure: Jamie tells his story chronologically, while Cathy tells hers backwards, so their perspectives only intersect once in the middle of the play. The Broadway production will be performed at the Hudson Theatre.
Nick Jonas stars as Jamie and Adrienne Warren as Cathy.
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05 Smash on Broadway (starting April 2025)
Smash is a new musical that follows the creation and challenges of a fictional Broadway play about Marilyn Monroe. Performances take place at the Imperial Theatre. The main roles are played by Robyn Hurder as Ivy Lynn, Brooks Ashmanskas as Nigel, Krysta Rodriguez as Tracy and John Behlmann as Jerry.
The music is by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, the book is by Rick Elice and Bob Martin, and the production is by Susan Stroman.
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06 Stranger Things: The First Shadow (staring April 2025)
Stranger Things: The First Shadow is a stage play that serves as a prequel to the popular Netflix series, highlighting the events in Hawkins, Indiana in 1959. Performances begin March 28, 2025, at the Marquis Theatre on Broadway, with the official opening on April 22, 2025.
The cast includes T.R. Knight (known as George O’Malley from Grey’s Anatomy) as Victor Creel, Louis McCartney as Henry Creel, and Alex Breaux as Dr. Brenner.
The play was written by Kate Trefry and is based on a story by the Duffer Brothers, Jack Thorne, and Kate Trefry. -
07 Just In Time (starting April 2025)
Just In Time is a new Broadway musical that shines a light on the life of legendary singer Bobby Darin. Performances will take place at Circle in the Square Theater, and the official opening night is April 23, 2025. Tony Award winner Jonathan Groff will star as Bobby Darin.
Directed by Alex Timbers, the musical transforms the theater into an intimate nightclub with a live big band to bring Darin’s career and greatest hits like “Beyond the Sea,” “Splish Splash” and “Mack the Knife” to life.
FAQ
How Far In Advance Can You Buy Broadway Tickets In 2023?
Typically, you can buy Broadway tickets up to six months in advance. However, the sooner you purchase them, the better your seats will be. Many of the new shows that are coming to Broadway in 2023 have already started previews, so it’s best to buy your tickets as soon as possible.
If you’re not able to get tickets for one of the specific dates that you want, don’t worry! There are often last-minute ticket sales available on StubHub and other ticket aggregators. So even if you’re only a few weeks away from seeing a show, there’s still a chance that you can get tickets!
How Much Are Tickets To A Broadway Show In New York?
Broadway tickets in New York can vary in price depending on the show you see and the seat location. Generally, though, fees for performances range from $39 to over $200 per ticket.
However, discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. Make sure to ask about any special deals when purchasing your tickets. Also, be aware that some Broadway shows charge a service fee on top of the ticket price.
What is the most famous Broadway musical?
According to The Broadway League, The Lion King is the highest-grossing Broadway show, with Wicked at a close second! These shows include songs and dance. The Phantom of the Opera should not be missing from the list – unfortunately, it can no longer be visited.
What is currently the best show on Broadway?
Given the subjectivity of what makes a show the “best,” it’s hard to determine a single best show on Broadway. However, based on multiple listings and guides, some of the current top-rated Broadway shows include “Grey House”, “Hamilton”, and “Sweeney Todd”.
What is a Broadway show?
Broadway shows refer to professional theater productions that are staged in any of the 41 large professional theaters in the Theatre District of Manhattan in New York City.
When are Broadway shows usually held?
Typically, Broadway shows are performed Tuesday through Saturday evenings, with matinees often on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
What is the average cost of a Broadway show ticket?
The cost varies greatly depending on the show, seating location, and time of purchase. Prices can range from around $30 to several hundred dollars.
What is the dress code for a Broadway show?
There is no official dress code. However, attendees typically dress smart-casual. Some attendees choose to dress more formally for evening performances.
Check out my article about what to wear to a broadway show how to dress for a broadway show.
Are there age restrictions for Broadway shows?
Some shows may have age recommendations or restrictions, while others are suitable for all ages. Always check before purchasing tickets.
How early should I arrive for a Broadway show?
It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before the show’s start time to accommodate security checks and seating.
What's the duration of a Broadway show?
Most Broadway shows last between 2 and 3 hours, including an intermission.
Can I take photos or record videos during the show?
No, it’s generally prohibited to take photos or record videos during a performance due to copyright laws and as a courtesy to the performers and other patrons.
Can I meet the cast of a Broadway show?
Sometimes. It’s a tradition for actors to greet fans at the stage door after performances, but this is not always guaranteed and could vary depending on COVID-19 restrictions.
What does "Off-Broadway" mean?
Off-Broadway refers to professional theater productions in New York City that are not located within the traditional Broadway Theater District and that have a seating capacity between 100 and 499.
Pro tip: check out my guide about the best Off-Broadway Shows in NYC.
Are Broadway shows only musicals?
No. Broadway shows can include both plays and musicals.
Are there intermissions during a Broadway show?
Yes, most Broadway shows include one intermission, which is typically about 15 minutes long.
Can I bring food and drink into the theater?
Usually, outside food and drink are not allowed in the theater. However, many theaters sell concessions, including drinks and light snacks.
What happens if I'm late to a Broadway show?
If you arrive late, ushers will typically seat you at an appropriate break in the performance to minimize disruption.
What are some of the most popular Broadway shows?
Some popular shows include “Hamilton,” “The Lion King,” “Wicked,” “The Book of Mormon,” and “Chicago.”
What's the difference between Broadway and Off-Broadway shows?
The main differences are the size of the theater and budget. Broadway theaters have 500 or more seats, while Off-Broadway theaters have between 100 and 499. Broadway shows typically have larger budgets and higher production values.
Is there a way to get discounted Broadway show tickets?
Yes, discounted tickets can often be obtained through rush, lottery, or standing room only policies, or from TKTS Discount Booths located in Times Square, Lincoln Center, and Brooklyn.
What does it mean when a show is "in previews?"
When a show is “in previews,” it is performing for audiences before the official opening night. Changes can still be made to the show during this period based on audience reaction and feedback.
What does "Tony Award-winning" mean?
The Tony Awards recognize excellence in live Broadway theater. If a show is “Tony Award-winning,” it means that it has won one or more of these prestigious awards.
Pro tip: Here you can find everything you need to know about the Tony Awards (you will love it!).
What is the #1 iconic Broadway musical?
This is subjective and can vary based on personal preference, historical impact, and cultural influence. However, some of the most iconic Broadway musicals include “Hamilton,” and “The Lion King.” According to the recent listing, “Hamilton” is still a top-rated Broadway musical.
What is the best Broadway to watch first time?
“Hamilton” is often suggested as a great first-time Broadway show due to its mix of traditional Broadway elements and modern music styles. It tells a powerful story and has been highly acclaimed.
Is it better to eat before or after a Broadway show?
This largely depends on personal preference and scheduling. Some people prefer to eat before to avoid feeling hungry during the performance, while others might enjoy a meal afterward to discuss the show. Keep in mind that Broadway theaters often do not allow outside food and drink, and intermissions are usually brief.
What is the most expensive Broadway show?
“Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark” was the most expensive Broadway show ever produced, with a budget of approximately $75 million.
What is "Almost Famous" on Broadway?
“Almost Famous” is a musical adaptation of Cameron Crowe’s 2000 film of the same name. The musical, like the film, is a coming-of-age story about a teenage journalist writing for Rolling Stone in the early 1970s while covering the fictitious rock band Stillwater.
Why is "Hamilton" so popular?
“Hamilton” is popular for numerous reasons. Its innovative blend of hip-hop and musical theater has attracted a wide range of audiences, and its diverse cast and contemporary style have redefined expectations for Broadway. The musical also humanizes historical figures, making the story accessible and relatable, while its complex characters and themes encourage repeated viewings. Its popularity is still evident in 2023 as it remains one of the top-rated shows
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