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What Broadway shows are available?

  • Michael Rodriguez
  • 1/10/2025
  • 6 min read

What Broadway Shows Are Available? The Complete 2025 Guide for Theater Lovers

Broadway is more than entertainment — it’s an iconic cultural experience that blends world-class talent, unforgettable storytelling, powerful music, and breathtaking stage production. Whether you’re planning a trip to New York City, browsing touring productions, or sailing on a cruise ship offering Broadway-caliber shows, you may be wondering one key question: What Broadway shows are available?

With new productions launching each season and classics continuing their record-breaking runs, choosing the right show can be overwhelming. This long, detailed guide walks you through the latest musicals, hit dramas, family-friendly choices, long-running hits, newest releases, and even Broadway-style shows offered on cruise lines. You’ll also find tips for choosing the perfect show, booking tickets affordably, and making the most of your Broadway night.

Let’s take a deep dive into the fascinating world of Broadway.

Understanding What Broadway Shows Are Available Right Now

When people ask “What Broadway shows are available?” they generally want a breakdown of:

  • The long-running musical classics

  • New and trending Broadway musicals

  • Broadway plays (non-musical productions)

  • Revival shows

  • Touring Broadway productions across the world

  • Broadway-at-sea performances offered by cruise lines

With dozens of options running simultaneously, Broadway caters to every taste — whether you love romance, drama, comedy, animation, history, or full-scale musical spectacles.

The Difference Between Broadway Musicals and Broadway Plays

To make your selection easier, here’s how Broadway separates its shows:

Broadway Musicals

  • Feature singing, dancing, orchestration, and big ensemble numbers

  • Tend to have longer runs

  • Are typically more family-friendly

  • Often adapt movies, books, or historical events

Broadway Plays

  • Focus heavily on acting, storytelling, and character depth

  • May be dramatic, comedic, or abstract

  • Often include limited runs (3–12 months)

  • Typically appeal to mature audiences

Understanding this difference helps you choose a show aligned with your preferences.

Top Categories of Broadway Shows Available Today

To understand “What Broadway shows are available?” in 2025, let’s explore the most popular categories currently attracting audiences.

1. Long-Running Broadway Musicals

These iconic productions have been entertaining crowds for years — sometimes decades. They remain popular due to timeless music, emotional depth, and stunning stagecraft.

2. New and Trending Broadway Musicals

Each year, Broadway introduces fresh, innovative shows that quickly gain buzz. These typically feature modern themes, contemporary music, and big-name celebrities.

3. Broadway Plays With Strong Critical Acclaim

Even though plays don’t always get the same mainstream attention as musicals, they offer gripping storytelling and powerful performances.

4. Family-Friendly Broadway Shows

Kids and families love these productions due to their lively characters, magical sets, and uplifting energy.

5. Broadway Revivals

These are modern reinterpretations of beloved shows, often featuring updated choreography, reimagined sets, or celebrity casts.

6. Broadway Tours Around the World

If you aren’t near New York City, touring shows bring Broadway to cities worldwide.

7. Broadway Shows Available on Cruise Ships

Several cruise lines — especially Royal Caribbean — offer Broadway-licensed shows onboard.

Long-Running Broadway Musical Classics

When people think of Broadway, these household names often come to mind. They define the heart and soul of theater.

The Lion King

A breathtaking adaptation of Disney’s animated classic, this show features:

  • Elton John’s beloved music

  • African-inspired costumes

  • Emotionally moving storytelling

  • Mesmerizing puppetry

It’s perfect for families and first-time theatergoers.

Wicked

This musical retells the story of the witches of Oz from a whole new perspective. Known for its:

  • Powerful ballads

  • Magical staging

  • Emotional friendships

  • Spectacular performances

It remains one of Broadway’s most popular productions.

Hamilton

Lin-Manuel Miranda’s revolutionary musical blends:

  • Hip-hop

  • Rap

  • R&B

  • Historical storytelling

This show continues to sell out years after its premiere.

Chicago

Known for its:

  • Jazz-age style

  • Seductive choreography

  • Satirical humor

  • Iconic songs like “All That Jazz”

Chicago is a must-watch for fans of dance-heavy Broadway musicals.

Moulin Rouge

A dazzling pop musical based on the hit movie, featuring:

  • Stunning visuals

  • Popular medleys

  • Energetic performances

Perfect for those who love romance and spectacle.

New and Trending Broadway Shows

If you’re curious “What Broadway shows are available that are new?” here are some of the top modern productions making waves.

& Juliet

A modern, pop-inspired twist on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, full of:

  • Chart-topping songs

  • Modern humor

  • Bright, energetic staging

Fun, uplifting, and perfect for young audiences.

Back to the Future

Based on the nostalgic film, this show features:

  • Stunning special effects

  • A DeLorean on stage

  • Classic movie moments

  • Fun, upbeat numbers

Ideal for fans of sci-fi, comedy, and the original films.

The Notebook

A romantic tear-jerker adapted from the novel and film, highlighting:

  • Emotional depth

  • Beautiful music

  • Tender performances

Great for couples and fans of dramatic romance.

Hadestown

A Tony-winning reimagining of Greek mythology, known for:

  • Jazz-folk music

  • Haunting vocals

  • Deep emotional themes

Perfect for those who enjoy artistic, meaningful productions.

Broadway Plays Worth Watching

Not all Broadway shows are musicals. Many theatergoers seek intense drama, meaningful performances, and thought-provoking scripts.

Popular Broadway Plays Available Now

Many of the following rotate seasonally, but themes include:

  • Family conflict

  • Political satire

  • Historical retellings

  • Crime and courtroom drama

  • Social commentary

Plays usually feature well-known actors, such as Hollywood stars, who take on short but impactful Broadway runs.

Family-Friendly Broadway Shows

These shows are ideal for younger audiences, school groups, and families looking for magical, heartwarming entertainment.

Key Family Shows Currently Running

  • Disney’s Aladdin

  • The Lion King

  • Wicked (suitable for older children)

  • Beauty and the Beast (touring)

  • Frozen (touring)

Enough music, color, and storytelling to keep all ages engaged.

Broadway Revivals Audiences Love

Revivals bring back timeless classics with updated charm.

Popular Revival Shows

  • Cabaret

  • Sweeney Todd

  • The Music Man

  • Oklahoma!

These productions feature new casts, enriched musicals, and refreshed staging.

Broadway Tours Around the World

If you’re asking “What Broadway shows are available near me?”, you might be in luck.

Touring Broadway productions travel to:

  • USA cities

  • UK and Europe

  • Australia

  • Asia

  • Cruise ships

Tour versions offer the same costumes, choreography, and music as the originals — just traveling from city to city.

What Broadway Shows Are Available on Cruise Ships?

Cruise lines, especially Royal Caribbean, feature Broadway-licensed shows for guests.

Examples of Cruise Broadway Productions

On Royal Caribbean:

  • Grease

  • Mamma Mia!

  • Cats

  • We Will Rock You

  • Saturday Night Fever

  • Hairspray

These productions are performed by professional cast members and include full costumes, lighting, and orchestration — just like Broadway.

How to Choose Which Broadway Show to Watch

Choosing the right show depends on your interests. Here’s a simple guide.

If You Love Music and Big Performances

Choose:

  • Wicked

  • Hamilton

  • Moulin Rouge

  • Back to the Future

If You Prefer Emotional or Romantic Stories

Pick:

  • The Notebook

  • Hadestown

  • Les Misérables (touring)

If You Want to Take Kids

Book:

  • The Lion King

  • Aladdin

  • Frozen (touring)

If You Love Comedy

Try:

  • & Juliet

  • Shucked

  • Some Like It Hot

If You Love Drama

Watch a Broadway play for a deeper storyline.

Tips for Watching Broadway Shows

To make your experience unforgettable, here are some helpful insider tips.

Arrive 30 Minutes Early

You’ll get enough time to:

  • Find your seat

  • Settle in

  • Browse the theater programs

Book Tickets in Advance

Broadway shows sell out quickly, especially for:

  • Hamilton

  • Wicked

  • The Lion King

Choose Orchestra Seats for the Best View

If budget allows, orchestra-level seating delivers the closest — and clearest — view.

Look for Matinee Deals

Afternoon shows can cost significantly less.

Family Tip

For kids, aisle seats are easier for bathroom breaks.

Frequently Asked Questions: What Broadway Shows Are Available?

How many Broadway shows run at once?

Around 35–40 productions run simultaneously during the average season.

Are Broadway shows available year-round?

Yes, although some plays have limited runs.

Are discounted tickets available?

Yes. Options include:

  • TKTS booths

  • Broadway Rush

  • Lottery seats

  • Student discounts

Do Broadway shows change every year?

Some run for decades; others run only a few months.

How long is a typical Broadway show?

Most run from 2 to 2.5 hours with one intermission.

What Broadway Shows Are Available?

Whether you love musicals, plays, revivals, or family-friendly productions, Broadway in 2025 offers an incredible mix of entertainment for every type of audience. From timeless classics like The Lion King and Wicked to new sensations like & Juliet and Back to the Future, the theater scene is bursting with creativity, passion, and unforgettable performances.

So the next time you ask “What Broadway shows are available?” remember that there’s a perfect show waiting for you — whether you’re strolling through Times Square, exploring touring productions, or even sailing on a cruise ship with Broadway-style performances.

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