Broadway musicals are more than just entertainment; they’re timeless stories told through dazzling performances, powerful vocals, and unforgettable music. For theater enthusiasts, selecting which shows to see can be a challenging task.
From award-winning classics to contemporary masterpieces, these productions showcase the finest talent in musical theater, creating memories that last a lifetime. This guide helps you select the must-watch shows in 2025.
In this article, we’ll highlight the top 10 Broadway musicals worth seeing, offering an overview of each show’s story, venue, and why it’s a can’t-miss experience.
10 Must-See Broadway Musicals – Quick Overview
These productions represent Broadway’s finest offerings, combining critical acclaim with audience appeal across a diverse range of themes and musical styles.
| Shows | Venue |
|---|---|
| Wicked | Gershwin Theatre |
| The Lion King | Minskoff Theatre |
| Hamilton | Richard Rodgers Theatre |
| The Book of Mormon | Eugene O’Neill Theatre |
| Moulin Rouge! The Musical | Al Hirschfeld Theatre |
| The Great Gatsby | Broadway Theatre |
| Aladdin | New Amsterdam Theatre |
| MJ The Musical | Neil Simon Theatre |
| & Juliet | Stephen Sondheim Theatre |
| Boop! The Betty Boop Musical | Broadhurst Theatre |
These exceptional productions showcase Broadway’s diversity, from beloved Disney adaptations to groundbreaking historical narratives that continue captivating audiences worldwide.
1. Wicked
| Performance Dates | 06 Jun 2025 – 18 Jan 2026 |
| Cast | Alyssa Fox, McKenzie Kurtz, Jordan Litz, Michele Pawk |
| Age Recommendation | 8 years and above |
| Why See | Stunning visuals, strong vocals, and an unforgettable Broadway classic |
Set before Dorothy arrived in Oz, Wicked explores the untold story of Elphaba and Glinda, two witches with contrasting personalities whose friendship defies politics and fate.
With iconic numbers like “Defying Gravity,” breathtaking staging, and a powerful message, Wicked delivers spectacle and heart, making it a landmark show that continues to captivate audiences globally.
2. The Lion King
| Performance Dates | 06 Jun 2025 – 04 Jan 2026 |
| Cast | Vincent Jamal Hooper, Pearl Khwezi, L. Steven Taylor |
| Age Recommendation | 6 years and above |
| Why See | Visually breathtaking, family-friendly, and emotionally unforgettable experience |
Set against the backdrop of the Serengeti, The Lion King traces Simba’s emotional path from orphaned cub to king. It’s a coming-of-age story rich in courage, legacy, and redemption.
The show’s visual magic is legendary, blending puppetry, masks, and vibrant choreography. With a beloved score and African influences, it’s a theater experience that moves audiences of all ages.
3. Hamilton
| Performance Dates | 06 Jun 2025 – 23 Nov 2025 |
| Cast | Miguel Cervantes, Alysha Deslorieux, Jared Dixon, Tamar Greene |
| Age Recommendation | 10 years and above |
| Why See | Revolutionary storytelling, brilliant lyrics, must-see Broadway landmark |
Hamilton tells the story of Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant who shaped America’s political foundation. The musical blends hip-hop, R&B, and Broadway to reimagine the birth of a nation with energy.
Known for its diverse casting and lyrical genius, Hamilton breaks traditional musical boundaries. It’s a thought-provoking, powerful, and emotionally driven story that captivates modern audiences with historical insight.
4. The Book of Mormon
| Performance Dates | 06 Jun 2025 – 04 Jan 2026 |
| Cast | Kevin Clay, Cody Jamison Strand, Kim Exum, PJ Adzima |
| Age Recommendation | 16 years and above |
| Why See | Fearlessly funny, wildly original, critically acclaimed comedy |
The Book of Mormon follows two mismatched missionaries sent to Uganda, where their faith meets harsh realities. With razor-sharp wit, it satirizes religion, optimism, and the absurdities of modern belief.
Created by the minds behind South Park, it features outrageous humor, catchy songs, and surprising emotional depth. It’s bold, irreverent, and a comedic standout that leaves a lasting impression.
5. Moulin Rouge! The Musical
| Performance Dates | 07 Jun 2025 – 18 Jan 2026 |
| Cast | Courtney Reed, Derek Klena, André Ward, Sophie Carmen-Jones |
| Age Recommendation | 12 years and above |
| Why See | Glitzy, romantic, and musically electrifying Broadway experience |
Set in 1900s Paris, Moulin Rouge! tells the passionate story of Satine and Christian, caught in a whirlwind of romance, heartbreak, and spectacle inside the famous bohemian nightclub.
The stage dazzles with bold visuals, extravagant costumes, and over 70 pop hits remixed into a vibrant score. It’s a high-energy celebration of love, freedom, and artistic rebellion.
6. The Great Gatsby
| Performance Dates | 05 Jun 2025 – 04 Jan 2026 |
| Cast | Jeremy Jordan, Eva Noblezada, Noah J. Ricketts, Samantha Pauly |
| Age Recommendation | 10 years and above |
| Why See | Timeless romance meets 1920s spectacle and style |
This lavish musical adaptation plunges audiences into the glitz and longing of the Roaring Twenties, where Jay Gatsby hosts dazzling parties in pursuit of a lost love across the bay.
With showstopping jazz-pop numbers and luxe visuals, this Broadway production captures the heartbreak, glamour, and illusion of Fitzgerald’s iconic novel. It’s a theatrical revival of the American dream and desire.
7. Aladdin
| Performance Dates | 07 Jun 2025 – 04 Jan 2026 |
| Cast | Michael Maliakel, Michael James Scott, Sonya Balsara, Dennis Stowe |
| Age Recommendation | 8 years and above |
| Why See | Classic Disney magic with Broadway-level charm and spectacle |
Aladdin brings a vibrant Middle Eastern world to Broadway with spectacular visuals, daring adventures, and heartfelt moments. The timeless story celebrates courage, freedom, and the transformative power of magic.
Audiences are treated to jaw-dropping set changes, colorful costumes, and beloved songs like “A Whole New World.” This musical blends comedy, romance, and spectacle in a genie-filled fantasy ride.
8. MJ The Musical
| Performance Dates | 07 Jun 2025 – 04 Jan 2026 |
| Cast | Elijah Rhea Johnson stars as Michael Jackson |
| Age Recommendation | 8 years and above |
| Why See | Unmissable music, iconic dance, and MJ’s legacy |
MJ the Musical takes audiences behind the scenes of Michael Jackson’s legendary career, showcasing the artistry, ambition, and determination that defined the pop icon’s groundbreaking rise to fame.
With high-energy choreography, over 25 chart-topping hits, and an intimate look at Jackson’s life, this jukebox musical delivers an electrifying theatrical experience full of nostalgia and insight.
9. & Juliet
| Performance Dates | 07 Jun 2025 – 08 Feb 2026 |
| Cast | Lorna Courtney stars as Juliet with a vibrant ensemble |
| Age Recommendation | 6 years and above |
| Why See | Pop anthems meet Shakespearean sass with stunning energy |
& Juliet flips the script on Shakespeare’s classic, sending Juliet on a vibrant journey of self-discovery after ditching her tragic ending. Packed with humor, glitter, and fierce independence.
Set to Max Martin’s chart-topping anthems, this jukebox musical follows Juliet and her friends on a road trip across Europe, rewriting love, loss, and destiny with every catchy tune.
10. Boop! The Betty Boop Musical
| Performance Dates | 05 Jun 2025 – 28 Sep 2025 |
| Cast | Yet to be announced by Tara Rubin. |
| Age Recommendation | 6 years and above |
| Why See | Iconic character, vibrant visuals, heartwarming musical adventure. |
BOOP! The Betty Boop Musical brings the iconic cartoon character to life in a colorful Broadway adventure through New York City, filled with music, heart, humor, and dazzling stage magic.
Directed by Jerry Mitchell with songs by David Foster, the show explores Betty’s journey of self-discovery, celebrating individuality and dreams. It’s a feel-good, visually rich experience for all ages.
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Conclusion – Top 10 Broadway Musicals to Attend this Season
Among these exceptional productions, Hamilton stands out as the most revolutionary, combining historical significance with contemporary relevance and innovative musical storytelling techniques.
Wicked remains the most emotionally powerful, offering universal themes of friendship and acceptance through spectacular staging and unforgettable musical moments that resonate across generations.
For first-time Broadway visitors, The Lion King provides the perfect introduction through its visual splendor, family-friendly appeal, and artistic innovation that showcases the theater’s transformative power.
FAQs
Hamilton often ranks as the #1 musical due to its cultural impact, innovation, and sold-out performances.
The Lion King is Broadway’s highest-grossing musical, thanks to its long run and global popularity.
Wicked and Hamilton consistently sell out, making them some of the most in-demand tickets.
Many consider Les Misérables or The Phantom of the Opera the greatest, though Hamilton redefined modern musical theater.
With powerful themes, iconic songs, and stunning visuals, Wicked resonates emotionally while offering a fresh take on a beloved classic.
