Are you a fan of musicals, or are plays more your cup of tea? Do you enjoy classic, well-known shows, or do you prefer contemporary stories? What about the mood—a heart-wrenching drama, an eerie horror, or a light comedy?
When selecting a Broadway show, start by exploring your own interests
By understanding your preferences, you can narrow down your options and focus on shows that align with your tastes. If you’re a fan of romance and timeless music, musicals like Hadestown or Moulin Rouge might be the perfect choice. If you’re more inclined towards thought-provoking dramas, consider critically acclaimed productions like Sweeney Todd. Broadway is replete with shows of diverse genres, subject matters, and approaches to staging. And don’t forget, while looking for tickets online, you can apply filters across various categories to be more precise with your searches.

Take the time to research the productions currently running on Broadway in 2023

Read reviews, watch trailers, and listen to cast recordings to get a sense of the themes, styles, and overall atmosphere of each show. This will help you gauge whether a particular production resonates with you and sparks your curiosity. So, if you’re intrigued by historical figures and political intrigue, Here Lies Love or Hamilton could be excellent choices. If you’re a fan of unconventional storytelling and immersive experiences, shows like The Book of Mormon or Shucked might pique your interest.

Seeking recommendations is a great step to take while collecting information about a show to see. Reach out to friends, family, or online communities for recommendations. Ask about their favourite Broadway experiences and gather insights from seasoned theatre-goers. Personal recommendations can often lead you to hidden gems and surprise hits that might not have been on your radar.

Broadway productions often boast stellar casts and creative teams

If you have favourite actors or directors, check if they’re involved in any shows. Their expertise and talent can significantly enhance your theatre experience and add an extra layer of excitement to your first Broadway outing. If you admire the directorial genius of Julie Taymor, who won two TonysⓇ – for direction and costume design – The Lion King would fit excellently. Or & Juliet boasts a score filled with famous pop tracks from under the quill of none other than Max Martin.

Shows like A Beautiful Noise and MJ shed light on the lives and careers of iconic rock and pop musicians Neil Diamond and Michael Jackson, respectively. These are another type of show that may interest you with its connection to legendary artists and tribute to their extensive work.
Paying attention to the cast, creative team, or famous artist a show draws inspiration from can elevate your theatre experience to new heights. Knowing that you share the same values or interests with the artists who worked on a particular piece adds a dimension to your experience leading to a more meaningful viewing.

Embrace Variety!

Broadway offers a diverse range of genres and themes, catering to different tastes and preferences. Don’t limit yourself to a single type of show. Embrace the variety and consider exploring different genres to expand your theatrical horizons. Sometimes knowing exactly what you want but choosing to go another direction is the exact refreshing leap you need to take.
Whether it’s a classic musical like Chicago, a thought-provoking yet hilarious piece like Kimberly Akimbo, or an innovative performance like Back to the Future, each genre offers its unique features. If you’re in the mood for a visually stunning and family-friendly spectacle, Wicked or Aladdin can transport you to magical worlds. On the other hand, if you’re seeking an emotionally stimulating experience, productions like Hadestown will leave you pondering long after the final curtain call. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and discover something new.

As a first-time Broadway guest in 2023, choosing the perfect show can be both exciting and overwhelming. By following these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to selecting a show that resonates with you and those accompanying you on the trip. Remember, Broadway is a world of limitless possibilities, so embrace the adventure and prepare to be surprised and your love for the magic of live theatre to be ignited.