There’s nothing quite like going to the theatre to watch a play or musical. The entire experience is something everyone should get to experience at least once in life. If you are however someone who loves musicals as much as we do, you probably go frequently.
But, have you watched all of the best musicals performed on stage? Take a look at our definitive list of all the best musicals you simply have to experience at the theatre before you leave this world behind.
West Side Story
First up we have the timeless classic Romeo and Juliet-inspired musical, West Side Story.
The music was written by Leonard Bernstein, while the lyrics were done by Stephen Sondheim. It tells of forbidden love that ends in tragedy, much like Romeo and Juliet.
The Sound of Music
With names like Rodgers and Hammerstein behind it, The Sound of Music was destined to become one of the best musicals of all time. Follow the Von Trapp family as they flee Austria in search of a happy ending to some catchy tunes.
The Wizard of Oz
Even though the film of the same name was released before they took this timeless classic to the stage, it remains a must to experience it in theatre. Join Dorothy and Toto as they try to find their way home in the merry old land of Oz in this boisterous and lively musical.
My Fair Lady
In the fourth position on our list is none other than My Fair Lady. Based on the novelette, Pygmalion, the musical tells about Eliza Doolittle’s metamorphosis from flower girl to a lady with the help of Professor Higgins. It is a timeless classic and an absolute must-see!
The Phantom of the Opera
Moving on to a darker and more dramatic musical, we have The Phantom of the Opera by Andrew Lloyd Weber. It takes place at the Paris Opéra and relates a story of love lost, heartache and beauty.
Grease
Next up, we have something a bit more light-hearted and fun. The musical first hit the stage in 1971 and is still enjoyed by audiences worldwide today. It tells the story of high school love, peer pressure and of course morals and values.
Chicago
We go to Chicago in the 1920s in this jazzy musical portraying the lives of two female performers who were tried for murder. The musical is loosely based on events that took place in Chicago in that era and is a must for anyone who loves musicals with intricate stories.
Les Misérables
And finally, we have Les Misérables, which was recently voted as the best musical of all time. It follows the story of Jean Valjean and his adopted daughter. It takes place in 19th century France, on the brink of revolution.
There are plenty of amazing musicals out there. The ones we included in our list are seen as the best as voted by the general public. Is there another musical you think we should have included here? Let us know in the comment section below!