You’ve heard of Broadway staples like Wicked, Hamilton, and The Lion King, but a new generation of shows is taking center stage and reshaping the Broadway landscape. From bold reimaginings of classic stories to innovative original productions, here are 10 hidden gems proving that Broadway’s future looks brighter than ever…
10. Stranger Things: The First Shadow: Set in Hawkins, Indiana, in 1959, this thrilling stage prequel explores the mysterious origins of the supernatural events from Netflix’s hit series. With jaw-dropping effects and cinematic lighting, The First Shadow redefines what’s possible on stage. And there’s no need to binge the TV series first to enjoy its Broadway adaptation!
9. & Juliet: What if Juliet didn’t die for love? & Juliet flips Shakespeare’s famous tragedy into a vibrant, pop-fueled celebration of second chances and self-discovery. Featuring chart-topping pop anthems by songwriter Max Martin (“Teenage Dream,” “Since U Been Gone,” “I Want It That Way”), this energetic musical reimagines a timeless story with humor, heart, and a modern beat.
8. Chicago: Broadway’s longest-running American musical still dazzles with its razor-sharp wit and sleek jazz style. Set in the roaring 1920s, Chicago follows two ambitious women vying for the spotlight while awaiting trial. Featuring iconic choreography and the unforgettable opening number “All That Jazz,” this show proves that classic Broadway can still feel fresh and irresistible.
7. Death Becomes Her: Based on the cult-favorite 1992 film, Death Becomes Her follows two rivals who discover a potion for eternal youth, and learn that immortality isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. The musical’s sharp comedy and stunning visuals have earned its reputation as one of Broadway’s most delightfully unexpected hits.
6. Little Shop of Horrors: Technically Off-Broadway (but well worth the visit nonetheless), Little Shop of Horrors is a darkly funny sci-fi musical about a timid florist who discovers his plant craves human blood. With its clever blend of comedy and horror, this cult classic proves that small theaters can deliver big entertainment.
5. Aladdin: A Broadway spectacular bursting with color, adventure, and infectious energy, Aladdin transforms Disney’s beloved story into a musical full of show-stopping moments. With dazzling choreography and a breakout performance from the Genie, this show is a perfect pick for groups looking for big-stage excitement.
4. Maybe Happy Ending: Winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Original Score, Maybe Happy Ending has captured audiences with its inventive storytelling, visually stunning design, and emotional core. Set in a futuristic Seoul, this original show follows two outdated helper robots who embark on an adventure and rediscover what it means to love and be human.
3. Hadestown: Winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Hadestown reimagines the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice as a passionate love story set in a post-apocalyptic world. Blending folk, blues, and jazz with striking visuals and poetic lyrics, it’s a spellbinding experience that explores love, loss, and the human desire to defy fate.
2. The Great Gatsby: Step into the glitz and heartache of the Roaring Twenties with this dazzling new adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s great American novel following a mysterious millionaire’s pursuit of an unattainable love. The Great Gatsby captures the opulence and romance of the Jazz Age—along with the illusion of the American Dream—with lavish choreography, a big-band score, and showstopping design.
1. The Outsiders: Topping our list is Broadway’s breakout hit of 2025: The Outsiders. Based on S.E. Hinton’s iconic novel, it tells the gripping story of Ponyboy Curtis and his friends as they navigate belonging and identity amid social divides in 1960s Oklahoma. With an electrifying rock score and deeply emotional performances, The Outsiders has become the defining Broadway experience of the year.
