Hi everyone! So, if you know me, you know that I love musicals and would give anything to go see a show right now. To help cope with this, I’m here to give you some inspiration of shows that you should watch or soundtracks to listen to! Though there are too many amazing shows to count, I’ll give you my top 6 (movie musical & Broadway) in terms of soundtrack and story. (Also, these are in no particular order because there’s no way I could possibly rank them properly).
Les Misérables
Les Mis holds a special place in my heart because it was the first musical that I truly watched and enjoyed. This was the show that got me into musicals in the first place, so it will always be one of my top favorites. The soundtrack is absolutely beautiful and the storyline is SO GOOD. It’s about the French Revolution, but this musical makes history Exciting and Fun to follow along with. That said, don’t take those words the wrong way because this is definitely a drama and I don’t watch the whole show very often because there is a 100% chance that I will cry at the end. Les Mis is such a beautiful show in so many ways, so it is a must watch for anyone up for some historical drama.
Legally Blonde
Legally Blonde is just pure fun. If you thought the movie was good, you gotta watch the musical. Though the story is about the same, who would say no to adding some of my favorite songs of any musical I’ve seen? Though the show is fantastic too, if you’re just looking for some songs, this show is perfect because most people already know the story and can follow along with the soundtrack really well. I’d recommend “Omigod You Guys,” “Positive,” “Chip On My Shoulder,” and “There! Right There” if you’re looking for some songs to start with.
Rent
Rent is a true masterpiece!! The cast is absolutely incredible and the soundtrack is just as good as the show. This piece will… probably also make you cry. But it’s so worth it! All the storylines of the various characters in this show are so beautiful and touching in their own ways. Some of my favorite songs include: “Seasons of Love,” “Rent,” “Will I,” and “La Vie Boheme.” This one you should definitely check out.
Moulin Rouge
Nicole Kidman. Ewan McGregor. That’s it. That’s the show. Just kidding! There’s a lot more to Moulin Rouge, but honestly, those two are really all you need to know that you should watch it. This romantic drama has a beautiful soundtrack and is super lively to watch (it was directed by Baz Luhrmann). However, similarly to Les Mis, I rarely watch this whole musical because the end destroys me. THAT SAID, it is such a beautiful and amazing show that deserves your watch (or several). If anything, watch the musical for “El Tango de Roxanne.”
Newsies
This was another one of my first musicals! Newsies is so great regardless of if you watch the movie or Broadway version. Though the New York City newsboy strike might not sound like the most interesting topic to watch a show about, somehow Newsies blows this out of the water. In addition, the entire soundtrack is so top notch. If you’re looking for some song recommendations, definitely give “Carrying the Banner,” “The World Will Know,” and “King of New York” a listen.
Mamma Mia
ABBA + fantastic cast + a ridiculously fun musical = all you need to know. Please just watch it. And yes, the second is just as good as the first.