Planning a luxury trip to the Big Apple in 2023? The magical US city of New York is famous for its endless array of designer shops, museums, art galleries and eateries – not to mention iconic sights like the Empire State building and Central Park. But one of the biggest and best reasons to visit is its Broadway shows, which attract huge swathes of culture enthusiasts from across the globe each year.
Broadway shows in NYC offer a great way to spend an evening in the city and as a major cultural hub, the epicentre of New York’s theatre scene attracts some of the very best all-singing, all-dancing shows and most captivating plays in the world.
Many of the most popular shows on Broadway are based on well-known stories or include catchy soundtracks that everyone knows and can sing along to, which adds a little something extra to their appeal and ups the fun factor no end. You can expect high-quality productions, talented performers, and elaborate sets and costumes, all coming together to make for a night you’ll remember forever.
If you are planning a trip to New York City in the new year, then it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. Here are some of the very best shows to book those VIP seats for now.
The best Broadway shows to watch in NYC
Hamilton
Hamilton is a highly successful Broadway show that tells the story of the American founding father, Alexander Hamilton. The show, written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, incorporates elements of hip-hop and R&B into its score, so if you’re a fan of gritty music like this, then you’re in for a treat.
The show features a diverse cast that portrays the various historical figures involved in Hamilton’s life, and has been praised for its innovative approach to musical theatre, winning numerous awards including the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. It continues to be a popular choice among theatregoers in New York City and worldwide, and is a show every culture enthusiast should see at least once.
Wicked!
Telling the story of the Wicked Witch of the West from the Wizard of Oz, Wicked serves as a prequel to the classic tale.
The story centres around the characters of Elphaba and Glinda, who eventually become the Wicked Witch and the Good Witch, respectively, and features music and lyrics by famed composer Stephen Schwartz. It has been praised for its catchy tunes and engaging storyline, winning several awards, including three Tony Awards – so be sure to make space for it in your New York itinerary.
The Book of Mormon
Written by Trey Parker, Matt Stone, and Robert Lopez, The Book of Mormon follows two young Mormon missionaries who are sent to a remote village in Uganda to try to convert the locals to their religion.
The show is known for its irreverent and satirical approach to the Mormon faith, and it has been praised for its clever writing and catchy songs, so if you’re looking for something a little different to the usual Broadway shows, then this is it.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
Harry Potter fans simply can’t visit the Big Apple without booking front row seats for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – a popular Broadway show based on the eponymous and much-loved series by J.K. Rowling.
First premiering in 2016, it has been praised for its impressive sets, special effects, and performances by the cast. The show is a two-part play that picks up after the events of the seventh and final book in the series and follows Harry, Ron, and Hermione as they navigate the challenges of parenthood and the return of an old enemy – so if you’re eager to find out what happened to all of your favourite characters yet, then this is a must.
A Strange Loop
A Broadway musical written and composed by Michael R. Jackson, A Strange Loop has been running since 2019 and tells the story of a young, gay, black man named Usher who works a day job at the post office and writes a musical.
The show explores themes of identity, race, sexuality, and mental health, and is known for its innovative and thought-provoking storytelling. A Strange Loop has won several awards, including the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.
Funny Girl
Funny Girl, written by Isobel Lennart, initially premiered in 1964 and tells the story of Fanny Brice, a comedian and singer who rose to fame in the early 20th century.
The show features several well-known songs, including ‘People’ and ‘Don’t Rain on My Parade,’ and has been praised for its strong performances by its lead actresses, including Barbra Streisand, who originated the role of Fanny Brice. Funny Girl has won several awards, including eight Tony Awards, and it’s easy to see why when you see it live. A fun evening out guaranteed, and a show that is certain to blow you away.
Into The Woods
Into the Woods is a Broadway musical written by James Lapine and composed by Stephen Sondheim.
The show, which premiered in 1987, is a reimagining of several well-known fairy tales, including ‘Little Red Riding Hood,’ ‘Jack and the Beanstalk,’ and ‘Cinderella,’ and explores the consequences of the characters’ wishes and actions, and its complex characters, intelligent lyrics, and catchy songs have all come together to make this another Broadway hit.
The bottom line
If you’re planning a trip to New York City, check out some of these fabulous Broadway shows whilst you’re there. Whatever your tastes, there’s something for you, and from classics like Hamilton and Wicked to innovative productions like A Strange Loop and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, you’ll be spoiled for choice. So take advantage of the opportunity to experience the magic of live theatre while you’re in the Big Apple, and make it a trip to remember.
