Best Broadway Musicals of All Time
431 items ranked
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1.
A Chorus Line
This Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning musical dazzled more than 6 million people during its record-breaking 15-year run on Broadway
1130 points - added 3 years ago by BrendaKaye - 14 comments
Comments:
Love this show, especially the music.
Added 16 days ago by guest, 0 points
AMEN brother!!
Added 4 months ago by guest, 0 points
i love a chorus line but the movie is crap
Added 6 months ago by guest, 2 points
Just so y'all know, Les Miserables is not technically a Broadway musical so that may be why it isn't here.
Added 7 months ago by guest, -3 points
WHAT!!! Les Miserables is the most amazing play that I have ever seen and been a part of in my entire life. It changed my life.
Added 7 months ago by guest, 4 points
Man, this show is so acclaimed, but honestly, I HATED IT! Sweeney Todd is the best show ever! Sondheim forever!
Added 1 year ago by guest, 4 points
You needed to see this show on Broadway or at least the official road show. The final scene was worth the price of admission. Actors in rehersal the curtain comes down then goes up a minute later and everyone is on stage in full show dress. It was the single best scene I have ever seen. Since the choreography is copy righted most presentations must use another approach.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 0 points
Um, I like this show, but how in the world did it get to #1?!
Added 1 year ago by guest, 2 points
how the hell did it get all the way up here?!?!
that is not just over-rated, thats absurd!!
Added 1 year ago by guest, 1 point
Just Did The Production. Only had 10 rehearsals, Fantastic Production. Played Paul.... Favorite Part of all time!!!!! I Really Connected with him, for the days I was him in and out of the show
Added 1 year ago by guest, 0 points
The cheorography in ACL was outstanding, a lasting tribute to Michael Bennett's genius and work with dancers; the original was better than the last revival and had more heart, Donna McKechnie was great as the original Cassie!
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
Huh? Every song was a showstopper! The revival was great! The movie changed the show too much, but this is about Broadway musicals and this one is amazing.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
the movie did not do well even with michael douglas in it, besides what I did for love and one, the songs were so-so, the revival a few years ago was just ok
Added 2 years ago by guest, -2 points
damn
Added 2 years ago by guest, -1 points
2.
The Fantasticks
The longest running musical ever in New York, it is an Off-Broadway legend
1065 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 3 comments
Comments:
Such a unique show!! The music is great and quite difficult to perform. Lots of symbolism.
Added 9 months ago by guest, 0 points
Wow, that does sum it up - bizarre and beautiful. I didn't think I'd like it and I loved it.
Added 2 years ago by guest, -1 points
Bizarre and beautiful all rolled into one.
Added 2 years ago by guest, -1 points
3.
Company
1034 points - added 3 years ago by guest - 7 comments
Comments:
SO clever and SO real. What a smart show!
Added 1 month ago by guest, 1 point
Sondheim's best!!
Added 4 months ago by guest, 1 point
one of sondheims best shows but my favourite is into the woods
Added 6 months ago by guest, 1 point
you have your own opinion, Sweeney Todd was greater - a Sondheim masterpiece
Added 2 years ago by guest, 2 points
Who keeps knocking the greats? This is Sondheim's best and Sondheim has been America's best for a half century.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
music and lyrics will stand the test of time, the book was so-so, was bobby gay?
Added 2 years ago by guest, -2 points
cynical, biting at the time, great music and lyrics, immoritilzed elaine stritch
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
4.
The Pirates of Penzance
Gilbert and Sullivan are the British fathers of the American Theatre and this Pirates might be there best.
1033 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 6 comments
Comments:
I am sorry if I have got to say this but it would not be fair to treat the G&S operettas as Broadway musicals. Yes I know these operettas influenced American musical theatre. However it would be reductionist to place the origins of American musical theatre squarely at the feet of the G&S operetta corpus. Other operettas such as The Merry Widow and Die Fledermaus influenced musical theatre today. And let's not forget zarazuelas.
Added 6 months ago by guest, 0 points
good but definitely not top ten worthy especially #2!
Added 9 months ago by guest, -1 points
Penzance was great, but I personally preferred The Mikado. The music was more memorable, the plot more enthralling, and the characters more sentimental.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 0 points
For over 100 years, no one has come up with a better musical.
Added 1 year ago by guest, -2 points
A great musical that laid the foundation for most musicals that have come after it. The story is straightforward but interesting and the music is beautiful and memorable.
Added 2 years ago by guest, -1 points
Very difficult to undetstand... music is interesting, but there's too much of it. Disappointing.
Added 2 years ago by guest, -2 points
5.
Wicked
1021 points - added 3 years ago by guest - 28 comments
Comments:
Wicked truly is one of the greatest to grace the Broadway stage and decades after it opened it will still be reverierd as one of the best.
A great deal of that praise should go to the chemistry and vocal abities of Idina Menzel and Christin Chenowith. And, if nothing else it was truly the first vehicle to showcase the great talent of Idena Menzel.
Not since Strieand has there been such star quality and a voice to raise the rafters in quite the same way as Idena Menzel. She is a unique just as Steisand was on Broadway and still is today off Broadway. Idena Menzel is Musical Theater manna from heaven.
Michael .
Added 20 days ago by guest, 0 points
Truly a phenomenal show to behold on broadway! It may sound horribly cliched, but Wicked truly shows the meaning of the phrase that was Wicked!
Added 1 month ago by guest, 0 points
I AM NOT SAYING ITS A BAD SHOW... BUT. It is not one of the best musicals of all time. Wicked has done nothing sugnificant for the world of theater but giving some new found interest in musicals to novice theater goers. It is a great starter musical but other than that it is not as significant as a show like the Producers and Oklahoma.
Added 3 months ago by guest, 0 points
Omg omg omg omg favourite show Of ALL time!
Added 4 months ago by guest, 2 points
Wicked is soooooo good. If you are looking at this list for a suggestion of a show to see this is the first one you should see. It is so good and full of amazing music!
Added 5 months ago by guest, 3 points
wicked was like the best thing ever
Added 6 months ago by guest, 1 point
best show ever!!!!!!!!!!!
Added 6 months ago by guest, 1 point
To the guy that said "The Hunchback of Notre Dame sucked"... Yeah the disney movie did but try watching Notre Dame De Paris, there are english versions of it on youtube.
Added 7 months ago by guest, 1 point
I have tomention the AMAZING costumes and character portrayal. And who could forget song like "no one morns the wicked" "defying gravity" and "one short day". Overall this deserves to be up there with the lion king, phantom, les miserables and my fair lady.
Added 12 months ago by guest, 3 points
I love this musical. It's true that it is a little over hyped, but it is still pretty great, and the songs are fantastic! Especially when done by the original cast featuring Chenoweth and Menzel. I've only ever seen it once, but I've listened to the soundtrack a thousand times.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 3 points
Looking at how much a show grossed is not a good measure. When I saw Chorus Line on Broadway the top ticket was $25. Today it would be $125 and in ten years it will be $200.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 2 points
So to you, the Hunchback of Notre Dame sucked, The prince of Egypt sucked, Godspell sucked, Pocahontas sucked, and Pippin sucked? Just checking. All i know is that Wicked is the 3rd highest grossing musical ever, behind Lion King and Phantom, and its run isnt even over yet. Also Wicked is one of the top 15 longest running musicals of all time and again, its run on Broadway isnt even close to being over.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 2 points
Everything that Schwartz ever touched has been terrible. Wicked is no exception.
Added 1 year ago by guest, -6 points
This musical should be NUMBER 1! Because of it I'm now kind of obsessed with Idina Menzel and I 'm listening defying gravity like every day. I wished ticket for Wicked for my birthday :)
Added 1 year ago by guest, 6 points
This musical should be in top ten on this list! It has a good story and very memorable songs .
Added 1 year ago by guest, 0 points
Mediocre music? All you need to do is mention defying gravity and people go nuts! Not to mention For Good, No Good Deed, As long as your Mine, and No one mourns the Wicked! And in my opinion, Wicked has one of the most compeling story lines of any musical. Its one tht make you think, makes you ponder what is good and what is evil.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 1 point
Should be so much higher! More directed for younger girls, but still a great one!
Added 1 year ago by guest, 1 point
Mediocre music. Week story line that has many errors in trying to go match with Wizard of Oz. After being down around #50 where it belongs for years, it has had a mediocre rise, as if one person is spending all of their time voting for it. This is by far the most overrated musical on the list.
Added 1 year ago by guest, -2 points
This is most certainly more interesting than number 14. Wicked should be in the top 10 at least, along with the Lion King, Phantom, Rent, and Les Miserables.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 2 points
Wicked is truly a sepectical to behold. The costumes, scene design, score, and story makes it the worldwide bestseller it is today. It has also had one of the biggest turnarounds in theatre history. When it first came out, no critic believd in it. now 7 years later, wicked has become one of the best musicals in history and is now getting the reviews it deserved. example being the recent "musical of the decade" bestowed by Entertainment Weekly
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
It's my favorite musical of all time, should be higher on the list. Maybe #3? And Phantom should be up there too.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 2 points
Very pop musical-like, but not a quality music overall. It will never be a classic.
Added 2 years ago by guest, -1 points
What are you talking about! It is an Amazing! It has an amazing score tht makes you laugh, cry, and amazes you with inspirational power! In short everything about this musical amkes it a top ten player. If it wasn't it wouldn't bee CURRENTly running its 8th year on Broadway!
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
Dreadful musical. Cool sets and all - but that's it. Horrible songs, confused book, icky orchestrations. OK if you are a 14 year old girl, I guess.
Added 2 years ago by guest, -2 points
way overrated, it did not do well in SF when it opened, really can not hum or remember the songs
Added 2 years ago by guest, -1 points
This musical was amazing it was funny, creative, and it almost made me cry. this should be #1 on this list
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
best show i've ever seen in my life. the graphics were amazing, such an amazing show, and you can compare it with the wizard of oz and it just all makes sense.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
very entertaining & great casts
Added 2 years ago by penpencil22, -1 points
6.
My Fair Lady
992 points - added 3 years ago by BrendaKaye - 8 comments
Comments:
Some great songs, yes. But there are also long, slow drawn out scenes.
Added 9 months ago by guest, 2 points
Besides a great book and characters has nothing but hit after hit after hit. . . .count them all
Added 1 year ago by guest, 2 points
That would be so wonderful if Eliza was Julie Andrews. I bought cd with with her and Rex Harrison. i listen it every night before I go to bed:)
Added 1 year ago by guest, 1 point
witty, moving, funny... just brilliant (with or without julie andrews)
Added 1 year ago by guest, 2 points
Funny, bitingly ironic, and yet somehow also quite romantically moving. The music is beautiful, the lyrics masterfully witty. On top of all that, the original characterization by Rex Harrison was one of the greatest in theater history.
Added 1 year ago by scooterpet, 2 points
PYGMALIAN wow that was a fantastic movie and Broadway show. Even the book was fantastic. LOVED this SHOW!
Added 2 years ago by pdwaiwiri67, 1 point
With Julie Andrews: NUMBER ONE.
Without Julie Andrews: down there in the 30-something.. ^^
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
Too many slow scenes for my taste.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
7.
Les Miserables
Based on a novel by the same name by Victor Hugo, this musical has had the longest innings in the history of theatre.
929 points - added 3 years ago by BrendaKaye - 43 comments
Comments:
WHAT??????? i think you got 7 mixed up with 1!!!
its so powerful! everyones entiteld to their own opinion but really?? seven??????
Added 11 days ago by guest, 0 points
Overrated.
Added 16 days ago by guest, 1 point
Love it and the new staging is amazing!
Added 1 month ago by guest, -1 points
top three Les Mis, Phantom, Westside Story. Les Mis is awesome.
Added 1 month ago by guest, 1 point
NO WAY!!!
Added 1 month ago by guest, 1 point
Absolutely agree. There are just few that might have the same potential as Les Miserables. Would consider the ranking as not very objective. Sorry...
Added 3 months ago by guest, 0 points
This musical is amazing it realy should be number one and the movie that just came out is just as good!!!!!!!! THIS NEEDS TO BE NUMBER 1
Added 3 months ago by guest, 4 points
Les Mis should be number one! There has never been a better musical! It's a time-less story that everyone can relate to at some point. The themes of Les Mis are always relevant. It is captivation and beautiful.
Added 4 months ago by guest, 6 points
I just recently saw the film version of Les Miserables and really enjoyed it. I went into the theater knowing close to nothing about the story. I fond the songs wonderfully written and have since watched some of the concert versions on You Tube. Beautiful music and a captivating story!!
Added 4 months ago by guest, 3 points
This should be #1 this musicle is genius. So many amazing songs. I LOVE this musicle!
Added 5 months ago by guest, 4 points
I love how this show has the most comments for demands to be #1. Well it should. So much better than the other 20 above it. Meaningful plot and beautiful songs. Love it
Added 5 months ago by guest, 2 points
wish i could see it i love it sooo much it should not be number #32 it should be in the top ten
Added 6 months ago by guest, 2 points
Take my hand I'll lead you to salvation take my love for love is everlasting and remember the truth that once was spoken to love another person is to see the face of God...... This deserves to be #1 I was in the ensemble when my school did this play last year. It was so amazing but it was such a challenge and took so much work.. I don't understan why you would put this as #32. I'm just guessing that who ever rated these musicals just either doesn't have taste or doesn't know what a musical truly is.
Added 7 months ago by guest, 3 points
No. Les Mis is sooo much better than 32. It is incredible yet rated allllll the way down here!!! And WHERE THE CRAP IS PHANTOM OF THE OPERA?!? That was the one musical that got me singing when I was it on Broadway many years ago and has impacted my life so much more than all of these combined! it is an incredible musical that has lasted since 1988 and yet it's not on here!
Added 10 months ago by guest, 6 points
Definitely should be higher than 32! Top Ten all the way!
The music is timeless, priceless and full of it! It's better than the Music Man and Guys and Dolls put together!
Added 10 months ago by guest, 6 points
#32??? My #1 if I had a vote. Have seen most of the list but have never cried while watching a musical like I did with Les Miserables! So beautiful.
Added 11 months ago by guest, 8 points
BEST MUSICAL EVER!!! I loved it sooooooooooo much the songs are sooo good!
Added 12 months ago by guest, 8 points
Les Miz is the best musical ever! Incredible moving story by Victor Hugo. Fantastic music that will bring you to tears over and over again.
Book of Mormon is a distant second.
The rest are a 1000 miles away.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 8 points
Best of all time! Just saw Wicked which was really good, but story just does not compare.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 5 points
Les miserables changed my life! It had a lot more of an influence on me than all of the musicals before it combined! What about phantom and Mary poppins too!
Added 1 year ago by guest, 6 points
Les MIserables has a fantastic score and an amazing story. No doubt it should be in the top yen. Personally it is my second favorite musical.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 3 points
I love the story and the songs but, the songs run into each other you forget where you are. I loved the 25th anniversary show it was spectacular!!! Why isn't this higher on the list??
Added 1 year ago by guest, 2 points
BEST MUSICAL.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 6 points
This is the greatest musical of all time: Music, story, characters, message are all exceptional.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 6 points
Incredible show, the fact that it is below wicked makes me want to vomit.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 11 points
This is the best musical ever! Every time I watch Come to me or Do you hear the people sing I almost start to cry. I'm also reading the book now and when you read the first 2 hundred pages the story becames really interesting. I also understand musical better now.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 6 points
This is the best musical ever. It shouls be NUMBER 1! Why is it so low?! It has so touching story and most incredible songs. Number 42, seriously?
Added 1 year ago by guest, 6 points
Seriously?!?! Number 33? I'm really disappointed in whoever wrote this list. Phantom at #238, Les Mis here...those two (and other masterpieces) should be WAY higher up on the list.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 9 points
THIS IS THE BEST MUSICAL EVER!!!!!!! GORGEOUS MUSIC, PERFECT STORY!!!!!!!!! SHOULD BE #1!!!!!!
Added 1 year ago by guest, 5 points
Love this musical! Great story and even better score! But again, if half the people who say this should be higher clicked the green arrow next to the name, it would be in the top ten. Just sayin :)
Added 1 year ago by guest, 8 points
"THE BEST MUSICAL OF ALL TIME" PERIOD.
This Musical should be number 1!!
Added 1 year ago by guest, 6 points
It's just unfortunate that so many snob les mis because of it's popularity when it is truly one of the greatest shows of all time.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 3 points
best musical eve in my opinion. i played this at school, and even the condensed school version is amazingly intricate and detailled. and the music is gorgeous.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 5 points
This Musical should be number 1 who made this!!!!! les miserables is breathtaking the person who made this obviously hasn't heard it done well
Added 2 years ago by guest, 6 points
#33? Are you kidding? Les Miserables is the greatest musical in history! Should be top three on any list...
Added 2 years ago by guest, 7 points
why isnt this number 1? who made this thing?????
Added 2 years ago by guest, 6 points
ONE OF THE BEST!!!!! how could you put this at 35 and i dont care how 'inaccurate' it is it is still one of the best things to come to music for over 50 years thank you very much!
Added 2 years ago by guest, 5 points
Way too dark to be at the top of the list. And way too inaccurate historically to be taken as seriously as some do.
Added 2 years ago by guest, -4 points
OI! THIS SHOULD BE NUMBER ONE! There's no way Annie can be #5, by the way. Good lead actors are not the best Litmus Test for musicals. And, emotional-appeal-orphan-story doesn't possibly stand up to the supreme conflict plot in Les Mis.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 6 points
I'm completely confused why this isn't at least in the tope five. And where the hell is Phantom?
Added 2 years ago by guest, 8 points
LOVE IT! should be in top 10
Added 2 years ago by guest, 4 points
A good musical, the most overrated of the good musicals ever.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
BEST MUSICAL EVER. NO DOUBT SHOULD BE NUMBER 1
Added 2 years ago by guest, 10 points
8.
The Phantom Of The Opera
Based on the novel by Gaston Leroux, this Broadway musical by Andrew Lloyd Webberis is the winner of seven 1988 Tony Awards.
924 points - added 3 years ago by BrendaKaye - 19 comments
Comments:
Saw it on Broadway and on tour. Yawn. Overblown and doesn't hold up well. Time to close this mess.
Added 1 month ago by guest, -3 points
NO WAY!!
Added 1 month ago by guest, 0 points
Okay, so some musical like Kiss me Kate is beating out The Phantom of the Opera? I'd take Christine over Kate or any other female lead. I cry when I see this musical and I shiver when the Phantom comes on. How is a musical so flawless so badly rated? This is a crime to the musical genre! How could anyone give such an insult to this glimmering star in the space of musicals? How come this is not number 1?
Added 4 months ago by guest, 2 points
You're honestly going to tell me that Wicked beat out both Les Miserables /and/ Phantom of the Opera, and other renowned musicals besides?
...
...
Are you actually being serious right now?
I hate the public.
Added 6 months ago by guest, 9 points
should be in the top 3 one of the best shows ever
Added 6 months ago by guest, 7 points
Best. Musical. Ever. I always enjoy it. BUT IT SHOULD BE NUMBER 1. This musical desribes BROADWAY. It has everything. You obviously have not heard music of the night, that song changes everyone. This has a great production, music, characters, monolouge, EVERYTHING IS PERFECT. I CRY EVERYTIME I SEE IT BECAUSE IT IS SOOO GOOD. It has touched my heart and changed me forever
Added 10 months ago by guest, 8 points
Really?? 34?!? This deserves number 1 then Les Mis then Lion King and then go on with the list. Phantom is the best show i have ever seen and has lasted since 1988 and still going strong. BOOO YOU, WRITER!!!!
Added 10 months ago by guest, 5 points
IT WAS SO BEAUTIFUL THAT I CRIED!!!!
Added 11 months ago by guest, 5 points
The phantom of the opera was beautiful, this should be number 1 and Les Miserables number 2.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 9 points
Should be at the top 5, one of the most moving musicals. One of Andrew's best musicals and one of the best the world has ever seen.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 6 points
I love phantom. I read the book, an original screnplay, I bought souvenir book when I was in London, I watched the show, the film for like hundred times and listened cd. I only have to buy the mask now :) Seriously, I'm obsessed.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 6 points
This should be NUMBER 1! Because of phantom I started to love musicals. I saw the show in London with Tabitha Web and David Shannon and it was AMAZING! I also loved the film. I just can't understan why is it at 122 !?! This musical will be popular forever.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 5 points
I agree that this should be ALOT higher (personally this is my second favortie musical behind wicked) but what people dont seem to get is thtNO One person made this list, you did. the red and green arrows are for you to click to move this up. if half the people who complain tht should be higher clicked the little green arrow by the name, this would be in the top 50 by now! :)
Added 2 years ago by guest, 4 points
Some people have no god dam taste. It a fantastic musical reguardless of your obviously biased opinion of Andrew Lloyd Webber. Please move it up!
Added 2 years ago by guest, 3 points
Yes, the longest running Broadway musical is 400th on a list behind things like 'We Will Rock You', 'Jumbo' and 'The Life'. Who paid you to make this list and/or are your ears broken?
Added 2 years ago by guest, 6 points
this is one of my favorite musicals and the first one i saw. Why is it way down at 400
Added 2 years ago by guest, 3 points
This should be in the top 5. the person who made this is an IDIOT.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 5 points
Why the hell is it at 399? Wow...
Added 2 years ago by guest, 3 points
LOVED IT!!!
Added 2 years ago by guest, 3 points
9.
West Side Story
Romeo and Juliet put to the timeless score of Leonard Bernstein, the pointed lyrics of Stephen Sondheim and the energetic choreography of Jerome Robbins. With all due respect to other musicals, this is simply the best of all time.
919 points - added 3 years ago by clacuna12 - 14 comments
Comments:
Gives me goosebumps.
Added 16 days ago by guest, 0 points
BEST MUSICAL EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Added 22 days ago by guest, 0 points
WSS is the best musical ever. Case closed end of story!
Added 25 days ago by guest, 2 points
The music is not only the greatest score in Broadway history but some of the greatest music of all time in any genre. That only puts it in an category by itself.
Added 3 months ago by guest, 0 points
LOVED IT and Jerome Robbins was from Weehawken just like me.
Added 4 months ago by guest, 0 points
This is by far the most spectacular musical ever made!! Bernstein's finest contribution to music world!
Added 6 months ago by guest, 0 points
love it sooooo much best music from any broadway show ever
Added 6 months ago by guest, 0 points
I thought this was a bit boring. I mean, I appreaciate it, for the work put in and music written, but the classical ballet street thugs was.. cheesy. I was also surprised (not in a good way) at the ending which was different from Romeo and Juliet (the play it is based off).
Added 1 year ago by Lalita17, 1 point
i LOVE this play :) i played Maria when my school did a production of it, first time acting and best experience of my life, but it was nothing compared to seeing Natalie Wood and Richard Beymer on the big screen :D
Added 1 year ago by guest, 4 points
This is sooo beautiful musical! I love Tonight and I feel preety. The first time I saw it I was shocked when Chino shot Tony so I started to hate Chino :)
Added 1 year ago by guest, 1 point
Why does it say best of all time, when it's ranked 9?
Added 1 year ago by guest, 1 point
Leonard Bernstein is truely one of the greatest composers of Musical Theatre of all time. One of teh best scores there is (joint first with Les mis).
Added 1 year ago by guest, 3 points
I loved this movie since the age of 7. ( even though I didn't know much what it was about though..) It is AMAZING!!!!!!
Added 1 year ago by guest, 1 point
i remember watching my 1st musical when i was a kid, had a crush on natalie (though I read later that she really didn't sing there), remember crying in the end as i found the story so tragic. best of all time? have to agree
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
10.
Gypsy
Perhaps one of the best broadway scores ever, brassy (Styne) with Sondheim lyrics to boot. Each Mama Rose has carved out her own mark in the lead role (Merman, Lansbury, Daly, Peters and LuPone).
915 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 3 comments
Comments:
gypsy makes me think of Chris Colfer because his character Kurt Hummel on Glee has sung several songs from this musical. :)
Added 4 months ago by guest, -2 points
absolutely love it sooo much Patti LuPone best mama rose ever
Added 6 months ago by guest, 4 points
this musical always works in revivals even with Bette Midler doing Mama Rose on tv, even though it did not quite match up to Gypsy Rose Lee's real life
Added 2 years ago by guest, 2 points
11.
42nd Street
914 points - added 3 years ago by BrendaKaye - 4 comments
Comments:
No one ever does this show so it is hard to rank.
Added 1 month ago by guest, 0 points
it has a lot of good dance numbers
Added 6 months ago by guest, 1 point
This is actually one of my least favorite shows ever. I was part of a poorly done production and I can't seem to shake it.
Added 11 months ago by guest, -1 points
A great show, no doubt, but things such as Company, Pippin, Carousel, Into the Woods, and How to Succeed really deserve higher places... including many others...
Added 1 year ago by guest, 3 points
12.
Cabaret
867 points - added 3 years ago by guest - 6 comments
Comments:
Love this show. Dark and beautiful all rolled into one! In my top 5 musicals of all time!!
Added 9 months ago by guest, 3 points
This one is halarious! It feels so random, but there are really deep-rooted feelings and morals in the story. Liza Minelli is uniquely incredible!! This musical definately deserves it's place on this list!
Added 1 year ago by Lalita17, 2 points
I love Liza Minelli. She is so... great. :)
Added 1 year ago by guest, 3 points
This is amazing musical . I love all the songs!
Added 1 year ago by guest, 3 points
great score by kander and ebb and great book
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
great musical! will be remain great over time
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
13.
The Sound of Music
856 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 6 comments
Comments:
Classic....even "non-musical fans" know songs from this show. "Wizard of Oz" might be the only musical that is more popular. Popularity doesn't necessarily make for a great show - however, I feel the reason this show IS popular is because of how well written it is.
Added 9 months ago by guest, 1 point
This is beyond genius, I think this play is nearly perfect. Rodgers and Hammerstein are genious; this play is a classic all the way. Who DOESNT know the song Doe a Dear? For musical junkies, this is one of the first plays you get to know inside and out. Julie Andrews is phenomenal, this play is well worth it.
Added 1 year ago by Lalita17, 1 point
do, a dear a female dear, re... hahaha always in my head:)
Added 1 year ago by guest, 2 points
Should be number 1! My personal favorite :)
Added 1 year ago by guest, 3 points
So great musicale!
Added 1 year ago by guest, 2 points
Great story and memorable songs.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 3 points
14.
Fiddler on the Roof
852 points - added 3 years ago by BrendaKaye - 5 comments
Comments:
in this right now... no way should it be above les mis. it can get soooo boring and long. although this and les mis are the same length, les mis has so many more intresting moments to keep the show going, unlike fiddler.
Added 4 months ago by guest, 0 points
I had a chance to see this shows for the first time last night and really loved it!! The songs are great...lots of humor mixed with the dark side of being an oppressed people. My only complaint is that ACT I is sooo long.
Added 6 months ago by guest, 0 points
Just love it :)
Added 1 year ago by guest, 1 point
Great story, timeless songs (in the film Chaim Topol is simply amazing)
Added 1 year ago by guest, 0 points
Great story!
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
15.
Annie
The comic strip comes to life. Andrea McCardle - what a voice for such a young girl at the time
842 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 4 comments
Comments:
This show rocks... If it is done well. If the girl playing Annie is good the show is wonderful. If not than the show is not great.
Added 5 months ago by guest, 0 points
I found this show to be boring. The only entertaining part of the show is Ms. Hannigan...lol
Added 9 months ago by guest, 1 point
Oh, I was Miss Hannigan in this. Absolutely fabulous character to play thanks to Carol Burnett.
Added 1 year ago by guest, -1 points
if it had not been for Dorothy Loudon's performance, it may have closed early, she was a gem
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
16.
Kiss Me Kate
835 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
17.
Promises, Promises
The version on Broadway with Kristin Chenoweth and Sean Hayes is even better than the 1960's version with Jerry Orbach. Neil Simon's book and the music of Burt Bacharach with Hal David's lyrics make it a touching, funny, wonderful show!
818 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 7 comments
Comments:
cheesy but i love it!!
Added 6 months ago by guest, 0 points
The music is great, fits the music, is timely with the script, and is as enjoyable now as it was when it was originally written.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
that 70's music is so cliche!
Added 2 years ago by guest, -1 points
A great musical show, with great songs, an interesting story, and great humor.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
one good scene, way overrated
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
I just saw this Saturday night and Kristin Chenoweth is outstanding! She brought the house down twice with her singing and really gets to the heart of the role. Sean Hayes is even better! He was so funny. It was the best theatre experience I have had in years.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
you are way over rating this flashback, Chenoweth was miscast, the book is dated
mad men made it a good time to revive
though the music is passe
Added 2 years ago by guest, -1 points
18.
Guys and Dolls
818 points - added 3 years ago by guest - 3 comments
Comments:
I LOOOVE Guys and Dolls
Added 2 months ago by guest, 0 points
I was in this musicle and i did not like it. It doesn't have a great story line and it is a little cheesy
Added 5 months ago by guest, -1 points
There is no other musical that matches the wit and the magic of Guys and Dolls as the quintessential Broadway musical. The loveable larrikins of Runyon, a score that shames pretenders for all their lack of impact on the memory and the delightful humor of the script leaves one wondering why this masterpiece lingers at number 7 on this list!
Added 2 years ago by guest, 4 points
19.
South Pacific
817 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 4 comments
Comments:
Tooooooo.....slowwwww!
Added 9 months ago by guest, 2 points
You probably haven't seen a good production of it. South Pacific has so many good songs and moves along so quickly that the real concern is missing some of the detail. I hope you get to see a really good production of it, like one that has been on Broadway for the past year.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
Though this show is very well respected, I find it long and slow.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
Played in it in high school, saw it again last night on Live from Lincoln Center. What other musical has so many wonderful songs or such a still-timely (alas) message about tolerance?
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
20.
The Music Man
795 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 1 comment
Comments:
That was a good misical. i wish I could see it again.... Why isnt Les Miserables in the top 10?
Added 11 months ago by guest, 1 point
21.
Oklahoma!
759 points - added 3 years ago by guest - 6 comments
Comments:
Excuse me but this was the musical that changed all musicals.... Well this and Showboat. So it should be higher than the 21st
Added 3 months ago by guest, 0 points
I think this musicle is alright but not amazing. It is deffinetely no Les Mis or Wicked.
Added 5 months ago by guest, 0 points
Tied with "Sound of Music" as Rodgers & Hammerstein's best show.
Added 9 months ago by guest, 2 points
One of Rodgers and Hammerstein's bests. People always have a misconception that it is a "happy-go-lucky" but boy are they wrong. It's a great, profound, musical. Something Broadway never saw before when it first opened.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 1 point
over-rated! worth seeing only the first 5 min..
Added 1 year ago by guest, -3 points
My favorite "old school" musical
Added 2 years ago by guest, 3 points
22.
1776
739 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 6 comments
Comments:
This was not the worst show I've ever seen, that was Sugar Babies, this is the second worst show I've ever seen.
Added 11 months ago by guest, -1 points
This is a great musical. The subject matter is perfect for a musical. It is in depth, with great characters accurately portrayed, with great music and exciting plot. It is excellent.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
subject is just not good musical material
Added 2 years ago by guest, -2 points
BEST MUSICAL EVER!!!
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
This is one of the great shows of all time. It stays fairly true to the history (although Jefferson had just come from home and had not been away 6 months). Great music, great patriotism, great wit. But it takes incredible singers and actors to pull it off. You must have seen a bad production, because the ones that I have seen have been stirring, exciting, and outstanding!
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
1776 is the worst show I've ever seen. Why is it on this list? Bleck, it was 3 hours long and the plot was all old-president-dudes arguing. The songs did nothing to enhance the action. WORST 3 HOURS OF MY LIFE EVER
Added 2 years ago by guest, -2 points
23.
The Drowsy Chaperone
735 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 2 comments
Comments:
Good songs (considering the premise). The book is even better.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 0 points
YES BEST MUSICAL EVER!!!!!!
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
24.
Merrily We Roll Along
Sondheim's most interesting but underappreciated work
720 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
25.
Where's Charley?
The oft forgotten outstanding musical from the 50's that takes us back to the late 1800's in Britian.
716 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
26.
The King and I
707 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 1 comment
Comments:
The best ever, when Yul Brenner grabbed Constance Towers and they danced across that stage, there was a collective gasp in the audience, I think all the air was sucked up at one time.
Added 7 months ago by guest, 1 point
27.
Sweet Charity
698 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 1 comment
Comments:
one great song after another: from Big Spender to If My Friends Could See Me Now. not a clunker in the bunch.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 1 point
28.
On the Town
The movie was fun, but it was a watered down version of the movie.
681 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 2 comments
Comments:
My favorite Bernstein score! And he had so many great scores!
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
That is of the theatre version
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
29.
Pal Joey
675 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
30.
Of Thee I Sing
673 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
31.
Barnum
A circus on the stage with Cy Coleman's music that brings P.T. Barnum back to life.
666 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
32.
Show Boat
664 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
33.
They're Playing Our Song
659 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 1 comment
Comments:
robert klein and lucie arnaz had great chemistry in this 1979 broadway musical. it's one of the most heartwearming musicals i have ever seen and i feel it deserves a higher place in the list
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
34.
The Mikado
Gilbert and Sullivan
640 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 2 comments
Comments:
Very funny and beautiful songs!!
Added 6 months ago by guest, 2 points
This should be WAY higher on the list!
Added 1 year ago by guest, 3 points
35.
HMS Pinafore
Gilbert and Sullivan
635 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
36.
Into The Woods
The most creative and clever musical ever written.
597 points - added 3 years ago by guest - 15 comments
Comments:
Had the pleasure of seeing this show for the first time last night at the Univ. of North Carolina School of the Arts!! INCREDIBLE show and performed by a great cast. I love the weaving together of the different fairy tales. I put this show almost neck in neck with "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum". Both shows have such beautifully complex songs and a story that keeps you engaged. If you haven't seen it, try to!!
Added 3 months ago by guest, 1 point
I absolutely ADORE this show! It one of the best i've ever seen, ever!
Added 6 months ago by guest, 1 point
best show by Sondheim what a genius its such an interesting show LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!1
Added 6 months ago by guest, 1 point
It is such an interesting spin on the stories we've been told as kids. The score is masterfully arranged, and the dialogue is the pinnacle of wit. I haven't been charmed so much by any musical ever before.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 0 points
Along with The Mikado and Sweeney Todd this is one of the three best shows of all time!
Added 1 year ago by guest, 3 points
Into the Woods is one of if not the most clever and amazing musicals ever written. I love how it can be extremely funny and extremely sad. Thats rare in musicals.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 3 points
Into the Woods is one of my favorite musicals ever, and in my opnion it is Sondheim's best work. I love the score and it has one of the best books of any musical. And, as a bonus, it had great actors such as Bernadette Peters, Joanna Gleason, Danielle Ferland, and Robert Westenberg.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 1 point
i liked it, it was clever, the score was great, my only problem is that it is a bit too long
Added 1 year ago by guest, 0 points
One of my favorite musicals and even if you hate the music, you should respect the deep sadness of the story.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 0 points
personally my favorite musical. bernadette peters was amazing, and the music is soooo unbelievably difficult.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
We did this musical in highschool and it is great. It definitely has some deep meaning. Not annoying at all (in my opinion).
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
yes sunday in the park was better
Added 2 years ago by guest, -4 points
patronizing attitude show, sunday in the park with george has much more in it
Added 2 years ago by guest, -4 points
Into the Woods is one of the deepest shows that has ever been written, in my opinion. I might have agreed with you before I got the chance to really SEE the show. But, now that I see all of the power behind it, and all of the deep meaning Sondheim gave us through this show, I would say it's one of my favorites of all time.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
more annoying, in my opinion.
Added 2 years ago by penpencil22, -7 points
37.
RAGTIME
In the exciting era of Ragtime, the lives of a wealthy family, a poor immigrant and his motherless daughter, and a black man named Coalhouse Walker, intertwine.Blessed with beauty, ambition, a smashing wardrobe and a social conscience, "Ragtime" is the kind of musical that brings Broadway audiences to their knees in adoration.Based on the 1975 novel by E. L. Doctorow, Ragtime tells the story of three groups in America, represented by Coalhouse Walker Jr., a Harlem musician; Mother, the matriarch of a WASP family in New Rochelle, NY; and Tateh, a Latvian Jewish immigrant. Historical figures such as Houdini, Evelyn Nesbit, Booker T. Washington, J. P. Morgan, Henry Ford, Stanford White, Harry Kendall Thaw, Admiral Peary, Matthew Henson, and Emma Goldman also appear. The music includes marches, cakewalks, gospel and ragtime.
596 points - added 3 years ago by guest - 1 comment
Comments:
OMG, this should be first, guys...
Added 2 years ago by guest, 3 points
38.
Evita
589 points - added 3 years ago by BrendaKaye - 5 comments
Comments:
One of ALW's Smartest scores! Brilliant songs and smart use of leitmotif. Love the belting and Rice's intelligent lyrics.
Added 2 months ago by guest, 1 point
Loved it!
Added 2 months ago by guest, 1 point
I have mixed feeling about this show. I felt like it had several holes in the storytelling. Some nice songs but I don't feel it ranks with Andrew Lloyd Webber's best.
Added 9 months ago by guest, -2 points
Karen Carpenter sang a better version of Don't Cry For me Argentina.
Added 1 year ago by guest, -1 points
Ugh I hate this musical. Maddona? Really.
Added 1 year ago by guest, -7 points
39.
A Little Night Music
537 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 2 comments
Comments:
49 isn't bad. Not out of the top 400 Broadway musicals of all time. It is a great show, but only one showstopper, "Send in the Clowns." But then again, Sondheim is known more for good, but complicated, music, rather than showstoppers.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
49? That's crazy. A Little Night Music is one of the best musicals I've ever seen. Of course, with Bernadette Peters and Elaine Strich, it really is a PLUS. But WOW, that musical is wonderful.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
40.
Anything Goes
517 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 5 comments
Comments:
Patti is brilliant on the soundtrack
Added 1 month ago by guest, 1 point
THIS SHOULD BE I TOP 3 WITH PHANTOM AND LES MIS! SUTTON FOSTER AND PATTI LUPONE ARE JUST PHENOMENAL! ANYTHING GOES IS FUNNY, HAS GREAT DANCE NUMBERS AND MUSIC AND GOOD STORY LINE! IVE SEEN THIS SHOW ABOUT 32 TIMES AND I LOVE IT EVERY TIME!
Added 11 months ago by guest, 2 points
BEST MUSICAL EEVVVVEEEERRR!!!!! Sutton Foster!!!!!!
Added 1 year ago by guest, 0 points
I love this musical. The songs are great (especially Anything Goes), the dance numbers are great, and the comedic bits make me laugh every time I see it.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 2 points
I would have put this 5 and company 2
Added 1 year ago by guest, 1 point
41.
Annie Get Your Gun
511 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 1 comment
Comments:
With that score, this one should be in the top 20!
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
42.
Cats
Running for 18 years on Broadway, this musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber is based on Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats by T S Elliot.
478 points - added 3 years ago by BrendaKaye - 13 comments
Comments:
even though there is barely a plot here, it's not about that, cats is about symbolism and every cat that comes and introduces himself is a symbol for some kind of person (old actor, old lady, ladiesman, aristocrat..) i understand why some people might hate, but it's still a great show, despite it's strangeness and has some great songs and great dancing as well!!!
Added 9 months ago by guest, 2 points
Like cats, themselves, people seem to love or hate this show. Personally, I think it is a great show. Yes...it is unconventional in numerous ways. Those who say there is no story or plot are not watching close enough. There is both a story and a plot....it's just not spoon-fed to you like many shows.
Added 9 months ago by guest, 2 points
left at intermission; never regretted it.
Added 1 year ago by guest, -1 points
Sure it has a plot! My favourite musical ever and it should be higher on this list.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 0 points
this is one of the musicals that teach us that if you have enough money for production, you don't need any talent... i remember when i saw it i just kept asking myself where the hell is the plot?!?!
the only reason that it running so long is just because people like colorful things jumping infront of them.
Added 1 year ago by guest, -3 points
This musical has so amazing songs. I just can't stop siging memory to myself. It should be in top ten! I watched the film and I was astonishment about dancing and costumes and singing. I love cats.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 1 point
There IS a plot, it's just a little weird. It takes some time to understand it. For the songs, they're just incredible, and with a brilliant choreography... this should definitely be a little higher on the list...
Added 1 year ago by guest, 1 point
Why the hell is Cats all the way down here? It's the second longest running Broadway musical of all time! It's loved by young and old. However voted this down dosen't know a good musical when they see one. And of course it's not gonna have the best plot line...It's based of a bunch of poems! Just appreciate the music and dancing.
Should be number one in my opinion, or at least in the top 10. Sorry for the rant. ^^;
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
i agree, it has barely any plot. but plot alone doesn't make a hit. What makes this Musical a classic is just that. THE MUSIC. go up to any drama student, or actor and tell them to name one song from Cats and you will most likely get one.
Added 2 years ago by clumbsy_beth, 1 point
It is a spectacle of cats, but with no plot and not that interesting. Entertaining to the masses, but not art.
Added 2 years ago by guest, -2 points
This show has no plot. At all.
Added 2 years ago by guest, -2 points
not much to it. There are cats. lots of cats.
Added 2 years ago by penpencil22, 0 points
One of my favorites! Definitely, in my top 5.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
43.
Love Never Dies
"Phantom of the opera sequel" that really stands alone! Great singing, acting and fun story! :)
445 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 6 comments
Comments:
I feel like if you look at the show alone, it is incredible but since it changed all of the characters from phantom, it kind of sucks. The music is absolutley captivating though
Added 1 month ago by guest, 0 points
This was a really great musical, it is a shame that ALW changed the original storyline to make some fans happy. The music is amazing and is recurring on my Ipod. Love it so much. Shame it has gone away.
Added 8 months ago by guest, 1 point
It's not in West End anymore? I'm crying :(
Added 1 year ago by guest, 1 point
Personally I love this musical. It absolutely should have come to Broadway. It was going to until ALW was diagnosed with prostrate cancer. Then things got postponed... and damn no musical. Its such a shame it went off West End. Hopefully one day it will come back, unfortunately I do not see that in the near future. What a magnificent score.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 4 points
most amazing musical i have seen i loved it so so so so much i think some of the music was even better than phantom ! i am in love with it :D:D so beautiful the charecters where all so much more 3 dimensional in this one. i saw the melbourne one, not the london one. IT WAS PHANTASTIC :D:D
Added 1 year ago by guest, 0 points
Why is this on the list for BROADWAY musicals its never been to BROADWAY and its already closed in London so apparently it wasn't all that great.
Added 1 year ago by guest, -2 points
44.
The Producers
439 points - added 3 years ago by BrendaKaye - 4 comments
Comments:
The Producers is definitely in my top ten favorite musicals! It's one of the funniest musicals i've seen! Great book, great score, and the original cast had some of the best actors in musical theatre history! Nathan Lane, Matthew Broderick, Gary Beach, they are all fantastic! And, like others said, this show one more tony's than any other musical in history! Thats gotta tell you something :)
Added 1 year ago by guest, 0 points
I agree this show won 12 Tony Awards the most in history and is arguably the most successful show on Broadway
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
When you have Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick, it's automatically good, and it won more tony's than any other show in history. Great music and totally hilarious.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
Definately should be Number 1 or at the least 2
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
45.
Porgy and Bess
438 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 6 comments
Comments:
Musical Theatre came from Opera. They evolved from Operettas that were more light hearted and shorter than regular Operas but Opera all the same. Musical Theatre and Opera are close relatives and so, yes, Musical Theatre did come from Opera. The logic does work.
Added 10 months ago by guest, 0 points
"Opera existed first. Therefore musical theatre is opera."
This logic does not work...
Added 2 years ago by guest, -1 points
Opera existed first. Therefore musical theatre is opera. not the other way around
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
Porgy and Bess won the 1977 Tony Award for Innovative Musical Revival
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
Opera is musical theatre. There are many crossovers. Technically, Les Mis, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Tommy are operas (the last two rock operas), but are accepted as musical theatre as well. Porgy and Bess is one of Gershwin's best. It has played in opera houses, but also in Broadway theatres. It is an amazing show.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
This is an opera, not a musical.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
46.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Andrew Lloyd Webber's first was one of his best!
431 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 1 comment
Comments:
THIS MUSICAL IS GENIUS!!!! IT'S SONGS ARE SO SPECTACULAR AND ITS SUCH A CLEVER VERSION OF A BIBLE STORY!! SHOULD BE #1 OR AT LEAST IN THE TOP THREE TO ME....
Added 9 months ago by guest, 1 point
47.
Thoroughly Modern Millie
429 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
48.
Mame
413 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
49.
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum
402 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 4 comments
Comments:
I've done this show. What an embarrassment.
Added 1 month ago by guest, 0 points
Maybe THE perfect musical. There are no dragging scenes......each song is great...the last 15 minutes are insane!!
Added 9 months ago by guest, 1 point
Come on. 37? Nathan lane just being in it should make it in the top 15
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
Should be higher up. Number 2 or three
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
50.
Camelot
Robert Goulet's signature performance.
399 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 1 comment
Comments:
The original broadway cast is phenomenal. In additon to Mr. Goulet, Richard Burton, Julie Andrews and Roddy McDowell put this awesome musical through the roof!
Added 2 months ago by guest, 0 points
51.
Wonderful Town
398 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
52.
Irving Berlin's White Christmas
386 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
53.
Candide
375 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 1 comment
Comments:
Even better than the second Candide on this list!
Added 5 months ago by guest, 2 points
54.
Miss Saigon
367 points - added 3 years ago by BrendaKaye - 6 comments
Comments:
Are you kidding me!!! This is my absolute favorite musical of all time. I think it is shoenberg's best, ahead of les mis. This is just a bad list
Added 1 month ago by guest, 1 point
Seriously?! 61! The lead actress was so good! This musical should be one of the top 10.
Added 2 months ago by guest, 1 point
production kudos and storyline it shoul be on the top 10
Added 7 months ago by guest, 1 point
My Top 5.....63? No way
Added 10 months ago by guest, 1 point
This is just shocking!!! I love miss Saigon along side Les Miz and Crazy for you... This must be a mistake!!!!
Added 11 months ago by guest, 2 points
This musical should be on TOP 10!!!
Added 1 year ago by guest, 3 points
55.
Hairspray
362 points - added 3 years ago by BrendaKaye - 2 comments
Comments:
Funny and entertaining take on prejudice..be it racial or overweight people. The tunes are very good and it is one of those shows that leaves you very energized.
Added 8 months ago by guest, 0 points
WHAT!!!!!! Are You Crazy!!! This should be like #1!!!!!
Added 2 years ago by guest, -2 points
56.
Sunset Boulevard
Tony Award for Best Musical in 1995
355 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 1 comment
Comments:
Glen Close was awesome and the set!!!
Added 1 month ago by guest, 0 points
57.
Jesus Christ Superstar
350 points - added 3 years ago by BrendaKaye - 5 comments
Comments:
My favorite Andrew Lloyd Webber show. I was actively involved the whole show - no unnecessary scenes. Jesus' song in garden of Gethsemane is one of my favorite songs from any show.
Added 9 months ago by guest, 1 point
THIS is the greates rock opera/musical/broadway show of all time OF ALL TIME
Added 9 months ago by guest, 0 points
definitely should be way closer to the top, one of the greatest shows ever!
Added 1 year ago by guest, 2 points
This should be in the top ten!! It humanizes Christ more than anything an makes us apreciate Him more!
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
Top 10!!
Added 2 years ago by guest, 3 points
58.
Godspell
347 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 2 comments
Comments:
Saw the original on Broadway.....just GREAT. Connected with the songs and spirit. I even enjoyed the humor of Frank Mills.
Added 16 days ago by guest, 0 points
love godspell!!!!
Added 8 months ago by guest, 1 point
59.
Man of LaMancha
The Impossible Dream might be the most stirring and inspiring song ever in a Broadway musical! The rest of the musical is excellent, but The Impossible Dream is possibly the all time showstopper.
345 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
60.
Pippin
Ben Vereen's was outstanding in Stephen Schwarz follow-up to Godspell. It will make you think.
345 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
61.
You're a Good Man Charlie Brown
343 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 1 comment
Comments:
Snoopy rocks!
Added 9 months ago by guest, 3 points
62.
Hello Dolly
337 points - added 3 years ago by BrendaKaye - 3 comments
Comments:
I just found this show to be very boring.
Added 3 months ago by guest, 0 points
This musical always cheers me up. Put on your sunday clothes and Hello Dolly :)
Added 1 year ago by guest, 2 points
Should be in the top 20, at least!
Added 1 year ago by guest, 1 point
63.
Sunday in the Park with George
336 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 2 comments
Comments:
The lyrical phrasing and just plain badassery of this show blows my mind. Sondheim's best by far.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 1 point
the story was nice, other than that i couldn't find on good thing in this musical, it was long, boring, "putting it together" was nice, too bad you have to wait an hour and a half to get to it!
Added 1 year ago by guest, -1 points
64.
Little Shop of Horrors
323 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 5 comments
Comments:
Another one of the best shows ever, that's tragically underrated.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 5 points
Tis show should definitely be in the top ten. The music in this is amazing, and the plot line is different than any other musical! If people don't understand the comical story and the meaningful one, then they are blind.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 0 points
Because you can't go wrong with a plant that feeds on human blood. ;)
Added 1 year ago by guest, 2 points
this should be in the top ten. ts the best musical ive ever seen.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 2 points
Little shop of Horrors should be higher then spot 179. This musical combines the humor and raw sadness that every great musical should give. I'm not saying its the best musical ever, but way higher then 179.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 3 points
65.
Once Upon a Mattress
323 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
66.
No No Nannette
314 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
67.
Babes in Arms
Rodgers & Hart's 1937 hit starring Alfred Drake and the Nicholas Brothers included hit songs, "My Funny Valentine," "Where or When," "Johnny One Note," and "The Lady is a Tramp."
313 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
68.
Applause
The talents of Lauren Bacall and Bonnie Franklin on the same stage - what fun!
313 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
69.
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
312 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
70.
Follies
311 points - added 3 years ago by guest - 1 comment
Comments:
This is the best musical ever written. It tackles some of the most important themes in American theater and has such a strong emotional impact.
Added 1 month ago by guest, 1 point
71.
Chicago
308 points - added 3 years ago by BrendaKaye - 5 comments
Comments:
76... What this definetely belongs in the top ten! it is soooooo amazing!
Added 5 months ago by guest, 0 points
I love story, songs and dance. All together makes a great show and fantastic experience! It should be in top ten.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 0 points
Never seen it, should I?
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
this should be in the top ten, great music and dancin'
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
another kaner ebb musical that will fare well over time
excellent tunes and book
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
72.
Crazy for You
How can you go wrong with a show full of Gershwin tunes?
306 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
73.
Babes in Toyland
Victor Herbert's 1903 Broadway hit that included "March of the Toys."
305 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
74.
Billy Elliot
285 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 5 comments
Comments:
Why so low though the whole pattern of voting seems a bit crazy
Added 1 month ago by jenniferann, -1 points
Tony Award for Best Musical 2009. Should at least be in the top 50.
Added 2 months ago by guest, 3 points
You don't need to know a lot about the miner strike - you just need to sit back and see the wonderful story unforld before you
Added 2 months ago by guest, 3 points
Billy Elliot The Musical is a complex show that requires knowledge of British labor history.The Geordie accent(northern England) also requires the audience to pay attention. But if you read up on the coal miners strike of 1984 and listen to the dialog, this show can be one of the best and most inspiring shows that you will ever see. Take Grandma, take the kids. Everyone will be moved and entertained.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 4 points
I've seen most of the musicals listed here and most of them were incredible, however "Billy Elliot" is superior in all aspects. The dancing, music, story and entertainment value are extraordinary. You laugh, cry, cheer and feel thoroughly entertained in the end. As time goes by and more people experience this musical, it will move up the list--deservedly so!
Added 1 year ago by guest, 4 points
75.
Sweeney Todd
284 points - added 3 years ago by guest - 20 comments
Comments:
Should be waaaay higher than it is now.
Added 1 month ago by guest, 0 points
Critics praise it, opera companies perform it, and I think its the greatest musical. A unique blend of symphonic sound,high theatrics,dark pathos and gruesome humor,it stands alone and above almost all others. Its company is Gershwin and Bernstein ...and should not be floating down here with ABBA on this crap list. Serious music lovers should cherish this. Plebeians, enjoy your Les Miserables.
Added 3 months ago by guest, 1 point
A masterpiece. A hauntingly beautiful (and terribly difficult) score,and melodramtic gore fest,make this operatic show an almost singular experience on Broadway. Its low rank here shows how ignorant the publics taste is when something like Cats rats higher. Popular does not always,if ever,mean superior.
Added 3 months ago by guest, 0 points
Beautiful songs and engaging story!
Added 8 months ago by guest, 1 point
WHAT IS IT DOING DOWN HERE???!
Added 11 months ago by guest, 5 points
i love it ;D
Added 1 year ago by guest, 2 points
This should absolutely be in first place! IT IS ABSOLUTELY THE GREATEST MUSICAL OF ALL TIME!!!!!!!!!
Added 1 year ago by guest, 5 points
it seems to me that most of the people who commented on this only have seen the movie version...
Added 1 year ago by guest, 2 points
INCREDIBLE!!!! one of the best musicals ever made.... every single song is just a masterpiece,and angela lansbury was absolutely amazing in the boadway production, this was the musical that made fall inlove with this genre (p.s the film was terrible)
Added 1 year ago by guest, 4 points
I enjoyed it...i suppose it is unconventional which makes people nervous.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
WHAT IS THIS DOING IN LAST PLACE BLASPHEMY!!!
Added 2 years ago by guest, 4 points
This was the worst musical I have ever seen. After seeing this I decided I actually don't like Tim Burton very much eather because a lot of the movies he directs are actually really bad.
Added 2 years ago by guest, -5 points
its just gore....and fake blood....this should be number 1. True, raw emotion all the way through
Added 2 years ago by guest, 1 point
What are they going to make next, The Donner Party - the Musical?
Added 2 years ago by guest, -1 points
This is the worst musical I've ever seen. Macabre, morbid, gross, without redeeming qualities.
Added 2 years ago by guest, -5 points
ST should be in top ten much better musical work than Promises, Promises
Added 2 years ago by guest, 3 points
I love Sondheim's musicals, except this one.
Added 2 years ago by guest, -3 points
Gruesome, disgusting, and terrible theatre. Sondheim's worst ever.
Added 2 years ago by guest, -5 points
GREAT!!
Added 2 years ago by guest, 3 points
Sheer genius, beginning to end.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 4 points
76.
Funny Girl
271 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 4 comments
Comments:
It's too bad this musical is forgotten by the current generation. The vehicle is brilliant for a powerful and funny female. The problem is that few people can envision anyone other than "Barbra" as Fanny Brice. The songs are every bit as good as the best of its day. WN
Added 1 month ago by guest, 0 points
This should be in the top 10. One of THE BEST!!!
Added 4 months ago by guest, 2 points
Barbra Streisand is so great. I love her voice and she's great in every musical but Funny girl is realy great. Especialy Don't rain on my parade and I'd rather be blue :)
Added 1 year ago by guest, 5 points
LOVE Barbara Streisand in this--and in general :D
Added 1 year ago by guest, 4 points
77.
Patience
Gilbert and Sullivan
268 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
78.
Oh Kay
258 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
79.
High Society
257 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
80.
On A Clear Day You Can See Forever
247 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
81.
Bye Bye Birdie
246 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 2 comments
Comments:
should be one of the top 20 . The music and the musical arrangements are stellar! Great cast, lots of funny lines!
Added 6 months ago by guest, 0 points
soooo funnn i was in one 0f the shows and i loved it it was amazing
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
82.
Grey Gardens
239 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 1 comment
Comments:
Christine Ebersole proved she was an actress to reckon with in this musical. Her rendition of "Around the World" makes me cry everytime! Cast album highly recommended.
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
83.
Carousel
Rogers and Hammersteins best. Subtle and moving, the lyrics and music evoke character and plot, exemplifying the artistic power of musical theatre. One of the top 10 musicals of all time.
237 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 2 comments
Comments:
this is also a good musical from Richard rodgers you will learn a lot of values in this musical the , and it will make you cry especially on the song "YOU'LL NEVER WALK ALONE"
Added 7 months ago by guest, 0 points
I just did this show at a summer camp called Interlochen last year. Without a doubt, it was the most magical and beautifully moving experiences of my lifetime. An astronomically phoenomenal show, that is really underappreciated if taken at a glance.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 1 point
84.
Gigi
236 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
85.
Mary Poppins
229 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 1 comment
Comments:
I dont understand why this show gets soo much grief because isnt the entire movie put on stage. They combined the books and the movie! And sure they rewrote some of the songs, but thts wht makes it original! Quite frankly id rather pay to this than the movie put on stage, because youd basically paying to see the movie again! I welcome the change, and personally believe tht this, beauty and the beast, and the liopn king are disneys best musical work! :)
Added 1 year ago by guest, 0 points
86.
I'd Rather Be Right
Rodgers & Hart's 1937 hit starred George M. Cohan as President Franklin Roosevelt, singing and dancing.
228 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
87.
Nine
225 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 1 comment
Comments:
I have not had the pleasure of seeing this show on stage. I really loved the film version. The songs are great.
Added 8 months ago by guest, 0 points
88.
Assassins
222 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 1 comment
Comments:
Such an underrated masterpiece
Added 2 years ago by guest, 3 points
89.
Iolanthe
Gilbert and Sullivan
220 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
90.
Forty-five Minutes From Broadway
George M. Cohan's 1906 Broadway hit that introduced the world to "Mary's a Grand Old Name"
217 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
91.
Mamma Mia
216 points - added 3 years ago by BrendaKaye - 4 comments
Comments:
Running a long time doesn't make it good!
Added 10 months ago by guest, 8 points
Mamma Mia is the tenth longest running Broadway Musical and on any day around the world there are at least seven performances of Mamma Mia. 98 on this list? Ridiculous!
Added 1 year ago by guest, 0 points
What I liked best was the reprise after the the story was over. The actress playing Donna came out singing and looking like she was have so much fun that it should be illegal. Something I will never forget.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 1 point
More people have seen this musical than any other. What does that tell you?
Added 1 year ago by guest, 1 point
92.
Little Johnny Jones
212 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 1 comment
Comments:
I will be very happy when this surpasses Mamma Mia.
Added 1 month ago by guest, 0 points
93.
Me and My Girl
211 points - added 3 years ago by BrendaKaye -
94.
Starlight Exspress
FAB
210 points - added 3 years ago by guest -
95.
Flower Drum Song
Rodgers and Hammerstein
208 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
96.
Animal Crackers
1928 Marx Brothers musical on Broadway
200 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
97.
Little Mary Sunshine
199 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 1 comment
Comments:
excellent musical! hope it is revived onto Broadway one day!
Added 2 years ago by guest, 0 points
98.
The Red Mill
Victor Herbert's 1906 Broadway musical hit included the songs, "Moodbeams" and "In Old New York."
198 points - added 2 years ago by guest -
99.
I'll Say She Is
1924 Marx Brothers musical on Broadway
195 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 1 comment
Comments:
it is a revue- not even a musical! so dumb. no room on your 100 for Cottonpatch Gospel but you could fit in how many pieces of Marx crap? retire.
Added 10 months ago by guest, -1 points
100.
The Light in the Piazza
193 points - added 2 years ago by guest - 1 comment
Comments:
This is a gorgeous musical with a STUNNING musical score. Victoria Clark is a revelation in the lead role(channels Julie Andrews at times). Check out the PBS broadcast of the full show on youtube and see for yourself.
Added 1 year ago by guest, 2 points
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