An Ultimate Guide For Tourists: Top Rated Musicals You Shouldn’t Miss In New York

Broadway theater is some of the most well-known in the world. Based in New York, Broadway is made up of over 40 theaters that host a variety of different shows, including musicals. Seeing a musical in New York is a must-do for a tourist and will be unlike any other theater experience you’ll have. Here are some of the top-rated musicals you need to see when you’re visiting. 

Aladdin

If you’re looking to discover “a whole new world” of musicals, then there’s nothing better than Aladdin the musical. If you buy want to buy tickets for Aladdin on Broadway, you should do it quickly because they are selling out fast! If you loved the Disney film, you’ll be blown away by this show. Watch as the beloved characters of Aladdin, Jasmine, and the Genie come to life in a tale that follows the adventures of their friendships as they try to stop the evil sorcerer, Jafar. 

This huge 35-person cast brings an energy and entertaining twist to the original film, and the role of the Genie has been praised for honoring the original and late actor, Robin Williams. Casey Nicholaw, the director and choreographer, has created a fast-paced and engaging piece of theater that people of all ages can enjoy.

Hamilton

The show tells the story of Alexander Hamilton – the American Founding Father – predominantly through the art of rap. The lyrics are engaging and impressive as they follow Hamilton through his years of climbing out of poverty and growing into a powerful young man. This creates a fast-paced and informative story that keeps audiences wanting more. 

This unique musical written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, first performed in 2015, won 11 Tony Awards in 2016. From there, the success of this musical has only grown and is widely appreciated in many forms, including its recorded album, which was the fifth best-selling album of 2016.

The Phantom Of The Opera

The longest-running Broadway show of all time is The Phantom Of The Opera, and for good reason. This musical has music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Charles Hart, and was first performed in October of 1986. The story follows the phantom of a musical genius who haunts the Paris Opera House. The phantom lures a young soprano, Christine, to become his protégé and a tale of love and scheming ensues. 

With excellent costume design and special effects, the current Broadway show is as popular as ever. Still holding true to the original performances, this classically performed version of the show excels in creating an unforgettable experience for the audience, with the cast’s outstanding vocals and character representation. 

Harry Potter And The Cursed Child

Okay, this one isn’t a musical, but if you’re looking to break up watching musicals, then this play is based on the books by J.K. Rowling. Written by Jack Thorne, Harry Potter And The Cursed Child takes place 19 years after The Deathly Hallows and follows Harry’s son, Albus, and his friend Scorpius, the son of Draco Malfoy. After the hype of the Harry Potter films and books never seemed to end, fans were delighted when this play first took to the stage in 2016.

Critics have described the Broadway show as “suspenseful” and “sometimes downright frightening”, which is sure to have you on the edge of your seat. This action-packed performance is balanced with scattered peaceful and intimate moments, which audience members will love, even if they have never seen or read the original stories.

Moulin Rouge

Originally a film, starring Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor, released in 2001, this musical first took to the stage in 2018. With star-crossed lovers and a story packed full of scandals and secrets, this romance will make you laugh, cry and sing along to all the hits you know and love.

When it was heard that this iconic film was to be adapted for the stage, people were of course skeptical. But there was no reason to be worried, because it kept just enough of the original tone and atmosphere from the film, but enhanced this to work better in a theater setting. Focusing on the sensuality of the story, this show will open your eyes to the beauty but also the harsh realities of life. 

So now you know the top musicals (and a play…!) that you shouldn’t miss when you’re next a tourist in New York. Broadway is packed full of shows that anyone can enjoy, some of which include classics like The Phantom Of The Opera, or new shows like Hamilton.