Broadway has had an impact in the history and development of theatre, art and culture in New York City. This main street reflects New York’s past by symbolizing how power and poverty had an influence on shaping its culture and, tells its future. Some of Broadway Street’s historic and gorgeous houses have been developed into theatres and been the venue for some of the most popular, fascinating and magical musicals and shows of all times.
Millions of tourists visit New York City each year and watch Broadways shows since they are a popular and unique attraction. Since each show brings a unique style, story and culture to the stage that enchants people from different cultures, it is difficult to name which show is the best. Below is a list of 5 must see Broadway Musicals that have graced the stage:
1. Phantom of the Opera
The Phantom of the Opera has been the longest-running show in the history of Broadway. It has been running continuously since 1988 and been a consistent sell-out and favorite for many who visit New York City. Phantom is a phenomenal spectacle with beautiful music and talented artists. The crafted musical theater, theme and staging bring an electrifying, romantic and mysterious sensation to the audience.
The story is about a young soprano singer named Christine Daae who lives and performs in the Paris Opera House. Her father passed away when she was a little girl and believes that the spirit of her father is coaching her as a singer by means of a mysterious Angel of Music who lives in the bowels of the opera house. This angel, who is the Phantom, becomes obsessed with her and wishes her to love him. Even though she is in love with Raoul, a childhood friend who is also in love with her, she is captivated by the phantom and does everything he commands her to do.
Pricing for Tickets: $39- $252
Discounts Available? Yes.
2. Wicked The Musical
Wicked is a spectacular, multi-award winning musical, which has become “the biggest thing in musicals” since The Phantom of the Opera. It tells the story of The Wizard of OZ from a different perspective and the sets, lights, costumes, actor/actresses are good and unpredictable.
Wicked is a vivid reimagining story of the classic The Wizard of OZ, which tells the untold stories of misunderstood, green-skinned girl, named Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, and popular Glinda, the Good Witch of the North. After an encounter with The Wonderful Wizard of OZ, their friendship reaches a crossroad and their lives take a different path. The plot is revolved around how the two can cope when Elphaba attempts to fight against the Wizard and his oppressive laws.
Pricing for Tickets: $57- $302
Discounts Available? No. However, Wicked offers a daily lottery.
3. Les Miserables
Les Miserables tells the uplifting story about the survival of the human spirit. It shows how one’s life can change thanks to the generosity and understanding of another. Based on the epic novel by Victor Hugo, Les Miserables is set in post-revolutionary France and tells the story about a man named Jean Valjean who serves nineteen years in prison after stealing a loaf of bread. He experiences the worst sorts of treatments there until he is released from prison and breaks parole in order to create a new life for himself beyond the barricades. After he escapes, Javert, the prison guard, swears he will bring the convict to justice. He spends most of his life searching for Jean Valjean who started an honest life under a new identity.
After the life of a working woman, Fantine, is at a turning point, she turns to prostitution to pay money for the innkeepers to take care of her daughter Cosette. However, Jean Valjean promises to take care of the child for her.
The show has everything from drama, revenge, tragedy, friendship, loss to romance. A love triangle is formed between Cosette, Marius who is a student of the rebellion, and Eponine, a girl of the streets.
The music is powerful and moving and the lyrics are full of emotion and passion.
Pricing for Tickets: $67- $227
Discounts Available? No.
4. Chicago
Set during the Roaring 20’s, Chicago tells the story of two rival murderesses who are locked up in Cook County Jail. Roxie Hart is convicted for the murder of her lover after she discovers he wasn’t going to make her a star and, Velma Kelly for the murder of her unfaithful husband and sister after she finds them in bed together. Both of them find themselves competing not only for the press’ attention, but also for a good lawyer. Inmates Roxie and Velma make a deal with manipulative lawyer Billy Flynn to keep them from Death Row, while he promises to make them stars.
Chicago is one of the most famous musicals of all times. It is a story of murder, violence, exploitation, treachery and greed. It is a sexy musical extravaganza which transforms the whole theater into the Cook County jailhouse and a show which you can see over and over again.
Pricing for Tickets: $49.50- $252
Discounts Available? Yes.
5. Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular
Radio City Christmas Spectacular is the Christmas celebration that cannot be missed! It is a dynamic and magical show which brings holiday cheer to the audience and creates memories. It is a musical holiday show that takes place every year in New York City and is believed to be one of the most anticipated attractions of the year. The show combines dancing and singing with traditional Christmas scenes such as Santa’s ride to his workshop at the North Pole, and is performed by the women’s precision dance troupe known as “The Rockettes”.
Pricing for Tickets: $45- $165
Discounts Available? Yes.
Ways to get tickets at a discount:
1. Promotional Codes
When you are purchasing tickets, major agencies such as Ticketmaster, ask for a promotional code which can reduce the price of the ticket by 25%-50% off the face-value price. These promo codes can be found by visiting Playbill, TheaterMania and BroadwayBox.com.
2. Ticket Broker
If you are trying to attend one of Broadway’s most popular shows, such as Les Miserables or Wicked, it will be difficult to find tickets at a discounted price. Therefore, you would most likely find these tickets being resold by respected online ticket brokers, such as StubHub, at a discounted price.
3. Lotteries
General rush tickets and ticket lotteries are available to those who are trying to try his/her last minute luck. Some shows such as Chicago, sell a limited amount of discounted tickets on the day of the show. However, shows such as Wicked and Avenue Q, hold lotteries which people can go to before the show and enter their names in a drawing. Rush and lottery tickets cost between $20 and $30 and can be purchased on TalkinBroadway.com or Playbill.com.
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