The past decade saw some of the best Broadway shows, from classic tales to modern interpretations. This article lists the top 10 must-see Broadway shows of the decade that broke new ground and left a lasting impression on audiences. Hamilton, a revolutionary story about the life of Alexander Hamilton, won hearts with its hip-hop, R&B, and traditional show tunes. Another thought-provoking story, Dear Evan Hansen, discusses the importance of connection and self-acceptance. The article also includes hilariously controversial production The Book of Mormon and the heartwarming Come From Away, based on a true story. Other shows include Hadestown, The Lion King, Aladdin, Wicked, Mean Girls, and Chicago, each with its unique storyline and visuals.
10 Must-See Broadway Shows of the Decade
Broadway has been home to some of the world’s most iconic and unforgettable performances of all time. From classic tales to modern interpretations, the past decade saw some of the most spectacular plays to grace the stages. The following ten Broadway shows were groundbreaking and left a lasting impression on audiences around the world.
1. Hamilton
The must-watch show of the decade, ‘Hamilton’ is a revolutionary story about the life of Founding Father, Alexander Hamilton. With music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the show blends hip-hop, R&B, and traditional show tunes to create a hip and energetic musical that has captured the attention of audiences.
2. Dear Evan Hansen
Winner of the 2017 Tony Award for Best Musical, ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ is a thought-provoking story about mental illness and social anxiety. It follows a high school student named Evan Hansen, who fabricates a bond with a peer who has died by suicide. The show’s messages of self-acceptance and the importance of connection resonated deeply with audiences, making it an important addition to this decade’s repertoire of Broadway shows.
3. The Book of Mormon
This hilarious, yet controversial production is brought to you by the creators of South Park, Trey Parker and Matt Stone. It follows the journey of two Mormon missionaries on a mission trip in Uganda. While the musical is known for its crude humor and mockery of religion, it is also a commentary on cultural differences and the influence of religion on society.
4. Come From Away
Based on a true story, ‘Come From Away’ tells the tale of the 7,000 passengers who were stranded in Gander, Newfoundland, following the September 11 attacks on the World Trade Center. It captures the heartwarming experiences of both the residents of Gander and the stranded passengers who were welcomed with open arms in their time of need. The show features an uplifting score composed by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, making it a must-watch production.
5. Hadestown
An epic tale about love and the journey to the underworld, ‘Hadestown’ is based on the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. The show’s music and lyrics were written by Anais Mitchell, and the musical is visually stunning, featuring breathtaking sets and costumes. The show was a critical success and went on to win eight Tony awards in 2019.
6. The Lion King
Based on the hit Disney animated movie, ‘The Lion King’ is a heartwarming story about a young lion prince named Simba who learns about life, love, and responsibility. The musical boasts an incredible ensemble of actors, breathtaking costumes, and stunning visuals. The show has been on Broadway for over two decades, and it remains an essential part of any theatre-goer’s must-watch list.
7. Aladdin
Another Disney classic, ‘Aladdin’ follows the story of a young man who finds a magic lamp and is granted three wishes by a powerful genie. The musical features beloved songs from the original movie, as well as new and exciting tracks written just for the stage version. ‘Aladdin’ is a spectacle of lively colors, mesmerizing costumes, and heartwarming performances.
8. Wicked
Based on the novel by Gregory Maguire, ‘Wicked’ is an alternate take on the beloved story of The Wizard of Oz. It tells the story of the Wicked Witch of the West and her unlikely friendship with Glinda, the Good Witch. The show is a spectacle of breathtaking sets and mesmerizing performances, and it explores themes of friendship, identity, and the meaning of good and evil.
9. Mean Girls
Based on the hit movie of the same name, ‘Mean Girls’ is a clever and fun adaptation that explores the dynamic of high school cliques and the pursuit of popularity. It features an all-star cast of singers and dancers, and the music is catchy and witty, perfectly capturing the teenage experience. The show is a must-watch production for anyone who enjoys a good laugh and can relate to the difficulties of navigating high school.
10. Chicago
A classic of the Broadway stage, ‘Chicago’ has been wowing audiences for over two decades. Filled with show-stopping numbers and memorable characters, this vaudeville-style musical tells the story of two women in the Jazz Age who are accused of murdering their lovers. The show is a dazzling display of dance and music, and the performances are sure to leave you wanting more.
The past decade saw some of Broadway’s most outstanding productions, and these ten shows are just some of the examples. From classic tales to modern interpretations, these must-watch shows have something for everyone, so take some time to enjoy the sheer spectacle of Broadway, and indulge in some of the most unforgettable performances of this decade.