COVID-19 has taken something from everyone, but it has taken a lot from the theatre community. As of publication, theatres on the Great White Way will remain closed until May 30, 2021. That will be a little over a year without the joy of live theatre, and, if you’re a Broadway fan like me, means a big portion of your life has been taken away. Luckily, some theatre and television producers knocked their heads together and have filmed some great shows that can keep you entertained for the time being! Here are five filmed Broadway musicals to watch during the shutdown!
- Hamilton
-
The musical event that saved not only the summer but the whole year, Disney released the runaway hit musical, “Hamilton” on its Disney+ streaming service. From the brilliant and creative mind of Lin Manuel Miranda, “Hamilton” tells the story of our forgotten founding father, Alexander Hamilton. Told through rap verses and r&b sounds, “Hamilton” made waves with its sound and its diverse cast. This filmed recording is absolutely incredible and gives viewers an up-close and personal look one could never get in the theatre. What was once a hard ticket to get on Broadway, “Hamilton” is available to anyone willing to pay the $6.99 for a Disney+ subscription, and it is well worth the price!
- The 25th Anniversary of Phantom of The Opera at Royal Albert Hall
-
Like its titular character, “The Phantom of the Opera” is a Broadway mainstay and is currently the longest-running musical on Broadway. Christine Daae is a rising soprano at a Parisian opera house, but she realizes her gift comes with a price: being haunted by the mysterious masked opera ghost. This Andrew Lloyd Webber musical is a masterpiece. From the sets to the soaring musical numbers, “Phantom” is what Broadway is all about. In particular, this version celebrated the musical’s 25th anniversary, and the cast, including Sierra Boggess and Ramin Karimloo, is spot on with their roles. Since you can make it to the theatre, rent this version online, which will give you an immersive experience of what is probably one of the best musicals in history.
- Legally Blonde: The Musical
-
If you’ve been following the Broadway scene lately, then you know that just about every movie or musician’s life is being made into a musical. “Legally Blonde” was just the beginning. The show first opened in 2007 and is just as bright and motivational as its source material. California girl Elle Woods makes it her mission to win back her Harvard Law-bound boyfriend by entering the school herself. Along the way, Elle learns she can do so much more than what she and others thought she could. The show has many memorable pop-enthused numbers, and Laura Bell Bundy brings her own spunk and flair to the classic Reese Witherspoon role. MTV filmed the show during its original run in 2007, and luckily it’s been uploaded in full to YouTube! Enjoy
- Grease: Live!
-
In recent years, major networks have gone into a craze of coordinating live musicals for viewers across the nation. For a few years, NBC had taken a stab at it with mediocre results until Fox finally found the perfect formula with “Grease.” Filled with TV, movie, music, and Broadway stars alike, “Grease” is the story of star-crossed 1950s summer lovers Sandy and Danny, who just can’t seem to find a balance between their friends, their differences and their instant connection. Fox made the wise decision to film this on a studio set, making the experience much better suited for its given format. Unlike most live performances, the added live audience isn’t annoying and adds a fun element. “Grease” is one of the most beloved musicals, and this live edition honors that legacy with its own spin on things.
- Hairspray Live!
-
This last addition is yet another major broadcast production that takes us back in time. “Hairspray” follows Tracey Turnblad, who dreams of being a star on a local Baltimore dance show. But, many people in her life doubt her abilities, and that just makes her more determined to achieve her dreams. Compared to its brilliant movie adaptation, this adaptation falls flat in many places. Ariana Grande’s Penny falls flat the minute she shows up on your screen, Garret Clayton’s Link has no depth and newcomer Maddie Ballio’s radiant energy doesn’t really hold up the show like she should. However, Broadway legend and queen Kristin Chenoweth is the ultimate Velma Von Tussle, Jennifer Hudson’s heavenly vocals are present and Dove Cameron proves she is a triple threat! Even with its faults, “Hairspray Live” is good fun and is just as infectious as was on Broadway and on film.