A Starter List for First-Time Broadway Visitors in 2024

Seeing and Broadway Show in NY is an incredibly memorable experience for students

Step onto the glittering sidewalks of New York City because today we’re introducing you to Broadway, the beating heart of the Big Apple’s theatre scene. If it’s your first time planning a trip to this theatrical haven, here’s why 2024 is the year to do so.

Broadway, with its bright lights and transcendent performances, has been the pulse of New York’s entertainment industry for more than a century. Renowned for showcasing some of the most high-caliber performances in the world, Broadway gives life to stories told through song, dance, and dialogue in ways unmatched by any other performance medium. 

In 2024, Broadway is promising to be even more shining, even more enduring, and even more spectacular than ever. This year, a new wave of productions is taking center stage, blending tradition with innovation in ways that are bravely pushing the boundaries of musical theatre. From revivals of classic favorites to bold new works that are already generating buzz, 2024 is the year Broadway is coming alive in a way you won’t want to miss.

Some classic picks for first-time Broadway shows:

• The Book of Mormon: A nine-time Tony Award®-winning Best Musical, this witty, unexpected, and uproarious story follows the journey of two Mormon missionaries as they venture to Uganda with the ambitious mission of converting the local population to their religion. Along their journey, they encounter formidable obstacles like a warlord with menacing threats. Their hilarious misadventures and eventual personal growth form the crux of the musical’s appeal.
  • Praised by The New York Times as “the best musical of this century” and graced with a ‘Grade A’ rating by Entertainment Weekly, calling it “the funniest musical of all time,” The Book of Mormon is a proven crowd-pleaser and a must-see for first-time Broadway visitors. Undeniably, the creators deserve applause for their brilliant masterpiece. The show is the brainchild of animation stalwarts Trey Parker and Matt Stone, the masterminds behind the globally acclaimed animated television series South Park. Beginning its journey in 2008, The Book of Mormon premiered on Broadway in 2011 and has been a fan-favorite ever since. 
  • We recommend planning your visit to Broadway around the performance schedule. Avoid disappointment by booking tickets ahead of time, as this is one of Broadway’s most popular shows. Bear in mind, though, that the show contains explicit language and may not be suitable for younger audiences. It’s an enjoyable trip into the world of laughter and entertainment for adults, delivering the quintessential Broadway experience. 

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  Gaten Matarazzo, Annaleigh Ashford, Alicia Kaori, DeLaney Westfall and Kristie Dale Sanders in the 2023 Broadway production of SWEENEY TODD, Photo by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman

  Sweeney Todd: Immerse yourself in the dark and thrilling world of this musical theatre classic. A gripping tale of vengeance set in Victorian-era London, this musical follows the title character, a wronged barber, as he embarks on a journey of revenge that leads to grisly and unfortunate outcomes. This isn’t your typical musical – it’s a suspenseful roller coaster through morality, justice, and love, embellished with Stephen Sondheim’s legendary music.

  • A cornerstone of Broadway history, Sweeney Todd debuted in the late 1970s, a period when musical theatre was undergoing significant changes. Its dark themes and violent narrative were a stark departure from Broadway’s traditional family-friendly fare, establishing a new era of risk-taking and boundary-pushing in musical theatre. It’s this daring that has kept Sweeney Todd relevant and impactful to this day. 
  • If you’re planning to watch Sweeney Todd, make sure to book your tickets in advance, as securing tickets to this popular revival may be challenging. Given the show’s violent themes and graphic imagery, it’s best suited for mature audiences. While audiences under 12 might better enjoy other Broadway offerings, Sweeney Todd is an absolutely thrilling experience for mature theatre lovers. The legend of the demon barber of Fleet Street awaits you.

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  Eric Anderson as Harold Zidler in Moulin Rouge! The Musical – Photo by Matthew Murphy

  Moulin Rouge! The Musical: Based on the 2001 film, this musical follows the radiant yet tragic love story of poet Christian and starry-eyed courtesan Satine. Set in glamorous and colorful Paris in the late 19th century, within the heart of the famed Moulin Rouge cabaret, their star-crossed love story is a heartfelt celebration of art, beauty, and the freedom of love.

  • What sets Moulin Rouge! The Musical apart isn’t just the enchanting plot but the marvel of its visual and auditory spectacle. The grandeur of its intricate sets and costumes come together to recreate the flamboyance of Parisian nightlife. The music is a splash of the past and the present, featuring a mix of iconic pop songs from the last 50 years that gets the audience tapping their feet and quietly humming along.
  • The musical has been lauded for its power-packed performances, bringing home 10 prestigious Tony Awards®, including the Best Musical. The creative interpretation of Baz Luhrmann’s film has resonated with viewers around the world, capturing hearts and earning standing ovations.
  • To experience the magic of Moulin Rouge!, we recommend you head to the Al Hirschfeld Theatre and book your tickets well in advance. A perfect addition to your Broadway itinerary, this show is an unforgettable experience that truly captures the spirit of the iconic cabaret.
    

New NYC Broadway shows on the Block!

Suffs:

Keeping up with the trend of groundbreaking and relevant theatre, we present Suffs, slated to open on Broadway this spring. Penned by composer Shaina Taub, the musical delves deep into the passionate world of suffragettes. Through soul-stirring songs and equally powerful performances, it offers a spectacular exploration of their relentless fight for women’s right to vote. 

You may wonder why a turn-of-the-century historical quest would be of interest to today’s audience. In an era where we continue to fight for equality and rights, the musical resonates profoundly, evolving from mere historical storytelling to becoming a mirror reflecting our contemporary society. No matter whether you are new to or a veteran of musical theatre, Suffs offers a burst of inspiration and daring that will wedge itself in your memory.

If Suffs has piqued your interest, we recommend staying updated through its official page or its social media accounts. As the ticketing information is to be announced, bookmarking these sources will keep you ahead of the crowd in getting the best seats. Suitable for a wide range of audiences, the show encapsulates a significant chapter in history in an entertaining format, promising an evening that enlightens and empowers. The trailblazing world of suffragettes is ready to make an impression on Broadway. Will you rise with them?

Water for Elephants:

Based on the critically acclaimed bestselling novel by Sara Gruen, this new musical paints a vivid picture of life, loss, and love amidst a traveling circus.

The story revolves around a young man who, after suffering a significant loss, hops onto a moving train, unknowingly beginning his journey with an extraordinary band of circus performers. Amidst the vibrant chaos, he discovers an unexpected home, finds profound love, and learns that life—and its surprises—can begin again at any age.

Water for Elephants harnesses innovative stagecraft to recreate the dynamic and often unpredictable world of a traveling circus. The narrative dances between heartrending emotion and the jubilant cacophony of circus life, turning the stage into an intimate landscape of human connections and childhood-like wonders.

The show has already garnered attention due to its trusted creative team. Director Jessica Stone, a Tony Award® nominee, and Rick Elice, a three-time Tony® nominee, have joined forces to adapt Gruen’s novel to the stage. The musical score by the acclaimed PigPen Theatre Co. adds another layer of depth to this profoundly moving and authentic storytelling.

Scheduled to perform at the Imperial Theatre, Water for Elephants will begin its first performance on February 24, 2024. As the show opening gets closer, we strongly recommend staying updated with ticket availability by visiting the official website.

Suitable for audiences aged 8 and above, this musical is a heartwarming exploration of the human capacity for finding joy in unexpected places. The musical’s duration has yet to be announced, but rest assured, it promises an experience that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. When the circus comes to town, you won’t want to miss it.

The Who’s TOMMY:

A writing venture by the renowned band The Who, the story revolves around a “deaf, dumb, and blind kid” who reaches the pinnacle of international success as a pinball player despite his evident physical impairments.

A rock opera that reinvented the music scene back in 1969, The Who’s TOMMY returned to Broadway after 25 years with much fanfare. The current production, fresh from its sensational sold-out premiere in Chicago and carrying a robust legacy of winning five Tony® Awards, is sure to wow audiences anew. 

Hailed by the Chicago Tribune as a “prescient masterpiece of a rock opera”‘ and touted as a unique Broadway spectacle, the show holds an irresistible appeal for fans of rock music and musical theatre alike. Be it the compelling storyline, electrifying music, or spectacular stage production, each element contributes to creating a theatrical masterpiece unlike any other on the Great White Way.

Slated to perform at the Nederlander Theatre, The Who’s TOMMY will officially start its Broadway journey on March 8, 2024. For performance schedules and ticketing information, simply visit the official show website. Given the mature nature of the story – a young boy’s journey from trauma to stardom – it is recommended for audiences aged 10 and above.

The Outsiders:

This raw and authentic musical is based on the novel by S.E. Hinton, and offers a stimulating exploration of the lives of ‘outsiders’ in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1967. Their tale of survival and their quest for purpose in a world that may never accept them forms the heart of this engaging narrative that preserves the timeless essence of ‘haves and have-nots’.

This daring musical presents the story that defined a generation, making it a must-see for first-time Broadway visitors. The show comes to Broadway following a critically acclaimed world premiere at La Jolla Playhouse. The musical owes its promising essence to a talented team, including a book by Adam Rapp with Justin Levine, music and lyrics by Jamestown Revival (Jonathan Clay & Zach Chance) and Justin Levine, choreography by Rick Kuperman & Jeff Kuperman, and direction by Danya Taymor. 

This new musical is set to stir hearts at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre. The first performance is yet to be announced, and for performance schedule and ticketing information, visit the musical’s official website. Recommended for audiences aged 10 and above; children under the age of 4 are not permitted in the theatre.

Book your tickets, buckle up, and witness an immersive tale of life on the edge.

Hell’s Kitchen:

A creation from the brilliant mind of 15-time Grammy Award-winning artist Alicia Keys, the musical is a love letter to the bustling neighborhood of Hell’s Kitchen in Manhattan. Set in the mid-’90s, we follow the narrative of Ali, a 17-year-old girl who, regardless of her protective mother’s warnings, is drawn to the unfiltered energy of the streets that promise a world of freedom, excitement, and love. With the guidance of an insightful piano teacher, Ali finds her voice and learns to own the city, in essence, finding herself.

What makes this musical stand out in the Broadway panorama is its infusion of the urban symphony of New York with Alicia Keys’ soul-stirring music. The narrative combines joy, coming-of-age, and the pursuit of dreams with a raw portrayal of identity and roots. It’s here where Broadway’s transformative storytelling meets the pulsating rhythm of the city’s streets, culminating in an experience that’s sure to captivate audiences.

To enhance your experience of this musical, check out A Local’s Guide to Hell’s Kitchen, penned by Christine Nyland. This helpful guide parallels the musical’s spirit by taking you through the neighborhood’s vibrant corners, each with its unique cultural imprint, adding another layer to your Broadway experience.

The arrival of ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ on Broadway is highly anticipated, and ticket and venue information is yet to be released. Do keep an eye on their official page for the latest updates. Given its mature narrative that encapsulates the grit and allure of urban life, the musical is suitable for audiences aged 12 and above. Are you ready to step into Ali’s shoes and experience a world of possibilities waiting to be discovered?

What else to see around the area to get the maximum out of your trip:

No trip to a Broadway show would be complete without exploring some of the other remarkable attractions that New York City has to offer.

For student groups, we highly recommend visiting some of NYC’s top-notch museums and institutions. Brush up on history at the American Museum of Natural History or explore the artistic avenues at the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). The New York Botanical Garden and Bronx Zoo can provide an insightful nature-infused experience. Immersing yourselves in these educational sites can enhance your understanding of various fields and make your trip both entertaining and learning-oriented.

Young professionals who are intrigued by Broadway and see a possible future here should undoubtedly visit the Museum of Broadway. Here, you can dive into the rich history of American musical theatre and find guidance and inspiration for your career path. Moreover, enrich your experiences by booking workshops and learning directly from those who’ve made a name on the stage. These programs will provide you with a behind-the-scenes look and help you understand the intricacies of Broadway performance and production.

Lastly, for our international visitors or guests from other states, enhance your exploration by taking one of the famed NYC sightseeing tours. For instance, Broadway Up Close Walking Tours or Gray Line/CitySights offer an intimate experience of the city. Additionally, visit the observation decks at the Top of the Rock, the Empire State Building, or the One World Observatory for a breathtaking view of the cityscape.

Remember, Broadway and its surrounding area offer a slice of NYC’s vibrant culture. So take your time, soak it all in, and make the most of your Broadway trip. Whether it’s before or after your show, open your senses to the rhythm, charm, and magnificence of the Big Apple. Happy venturing!

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