10 Spectacular Shows To Watch On Broadway In New York City

If you are heading to New York City, and looking for something to do while on your travels, then seeing a Broadway show has to be on your radar.

But, with so many to choose from, how can you narrow down the list?

10 Spectacular Shows To Watch On Broadway In New York City

We have picked 10 of the most spectacular and popular shows to watch on Broadway in New York City, so you don’t have to!

From exciting storylines to eye-catching costumes and heart-wrenching performances, all of these shows will have something to offer you. 

1. Wicked

Wicked has become one of the most beloved shows in the world, but it debuted on Broadway and is still available to watch today.

This show defies gravity! It tells the story of Elphaba and Glinda, who meet as students in Oz. 

Elphaba is withdrawn and trying to find a place for herself, whereas Glinda is the beautiful popular witch.

They are brought together in their studies, but something is set to tear them apart in this prequel to the Wizard Of Oz. 

It is a tale of love and friendship, with humor, magical staging and truly spellbinding music that will stay with you forever. 

2. Phantom Of The Opera

One of the most spectacular shows of all time, the Phantom Of The Opera lives up to its reputation.

The show follows the story of a deformed man who lives in the dark corners of an opera house, terrorizing the members of the theater.

A young dancer called Christine captures his eye and she becomes his muse. 

When his obsession becomes too much, and he realizes that love is out of the question- he plans to enact his revenge. 

This show is incredible. The soundtrack is by Andrew Lloyd Webber, and the costumes and elaborate sets will truly take you into the story of the Phantom. 

Of course, seeing and hearing the infamous Phantom Of The Opera song live will send shivers down your spine and ensnare your senses. It is unmissable so be sure to watch this one before it is gone! 

3. The Lion King

Not only is the lion the King of the jungle, but it is definitely the King of Broadway too. The Lion King is one of the most popular musicals on the stage.

This show is an adaptation of the highly successful Disney animated film and has often been dubbed the greatest musical of all time. 

The soundtrack is incredible and will truly give you chills.

The staging is amazing, and the use of costumes and props to create the illusion of real-size and lifelike animals is something everyone should see, not just the kids! 

4. Aladdin

Another must-see adaptation of a Disney movie is Aladdin on Broadway. This is an adaptation of the 1990s animated movie, and is an extraordinary sight to see.

The colors and costumes are breathtaking. You will even get to see the main characters go on a magic carpet ride over the stage that will definitely leave you speechless.

5. Moulin Rouge

The Moulin Rouge show is absolutely sensational. It is based off of Baz Luhrmann’s highly successful film with Ewan McGregor and Nicole Kidman, and it does not disappoint.

All of the spectacle, glamor and glitter of the film is poured into this musical. 

Expect full color, lights, sound, emotions and bedazzling costumes in this Broadway show! The theater itself is a sight to behold, and matches the style of the show entirely.

Enjoy the beauty of the Can-can and the iconic Lady Marmalade song as you become engrossed in the story of young writer Christian and Satine, the cabaret star. 

6. Chicago

Chicago has one of our favorite soundtracks ever. Set in the roaring 20s and the Prohibition era, this show about murder and corruption will capture the heart of all audience members.

It has won 6 Tony awards and some of the songs have even won Grammys. 

The show follows the story of Roxie, who has gone to prison for murdering her husband. She hires a legendary lawyer to maintain her innocence, and meets a range of deadly women on her journey. 

With amazing choreography, interesting staging and music that will keep you on your toes, this experience is unique and exciting. 

7. Hamilton

One of our personal favorites is the amazing and groundbreaking Hamilton by Lin Manuel Miranda. This show follows the life of Alexander Hamilton- but through the music of rap.

It is compelling, unconventional, and engrossing despite being about the American Revolutionary War. 

The interactive staging, spectacular light effects, catchy music and exciting scenes will honestly blow your mind. 

8. The Book Of Mormon

If you want a fun, humorous show to get lost in, The Book Of Mormon is for you.

Written by the same people who brought you South Park, his satirical show is about a Mormon couple trying to preach their religious beliefs to those in Uganda. The artists are really funny and the soundtrack is infectious! 

9. Harry Potter And The Cursed Child

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is finally in New York. This production has rave reviews and follows the storyline J.K.Rowling herself wrote.

It is set 17 years after the Harry Potter movies, where Harry himself works for the Ministry of Magic. After an incredibly popular run in London, this show is set to be as magical as the original. 

10. Sweeney Todd

Sweeney Todd provides a psychological backstory and explanation for Todd’s vicious crimes in this exciting and thrilling show. With music by Stephen Sondheim, this play is exceptional and spectacular. 

Final Thoughts

To summarize, there are so many spectacular shows to see on Broadway in New York City. If you love the glitz and the glamor of seeing a show live, then any of these recommendations will suffice.

With exceptional soundtracks, amazing costumes and sets, these Broadway shows will surely wow you. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Best Broadway Show In New York?

The Lion King is often regarded as one of the best Broadway shows in New York City, with music by Elton John, exceptional performances and incredible scenery and costumes.

Since 1997, it has been the best selling musical in New York.

What Show Has The Longest Standing Performance On Broadway?

The Phantom Of The Opera has the longest standing performance on Broadway ever.

This illustrious and spectacular show is a feast for your eyes and ears, and is one of the most iconic shows on Broadway. It is unmissable.

Julia Wright
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