Golden Age
In this musical, the character of Anita, who delivers the fiery song 'America,' was originally written with a more comedic tone, but later adaptations emphasized her more complex emotional depth.
West Side Story
In the original 1972 Broadway production of this musical, the song 'There Are Worse Things I Could Do' was initially cut during previews but later reinstated after being deemed crucial for the character of Rizzo.
Grease
This musical uses a pop-concert format and features the song 'Don't Lose Your Head,' sung by the character who was executed for adultery.
Six
In this musical, the leading character was intended to have a more dramatic background, but in later productions, her role was reinterpreted to emphasize her comedic and independent nature, which led to a stronger focus on her relationship with her daughter.
Mamma Mia!
This 2003 musical explores themes of adulthood, identity, and social issues, with songs like 'It Sucks to Be Me' and 'Everyone’s a Little Bit Racist,' using humor and satire to address life in a post-college world."
Avenue Q
This musical includes a scene where the Starkeeper intervenes to grant a troubled protagonist a chance at redemption, a moment central to the story’s exploration of love and forgiveness.
Carousel
The musical's set design for the 2002 Broadway production incorporated giant, revolving vinyl records as part of the scenery.
Hairspray
This 2002 musical, set in 1960s Dublin, features the song 'Love Who You Love,' which explores the theme of self-acceptance as the central character, Alfie Byrne, grapples with his unspoken feelings for another man
A Man of No Importance
Inspired by the works of William Shakespeare, this musical, set in the 1950s, and revolves around a series of mistaken identities and romantic confusion.
All Shook Up
This 1985 musical comedy centers on a variety show to raise money after a tragic accident, blending slapstick humor and religious satire.
Nunsense
Opens with the lyrics 'Oh, what a beautiful mornin’' and features a dramatic ballet sequence choreographed by Agnes de Mille.
Oklahoma
In this musical, this character was originally portrayed as a traditional wise elder in the film, but was reimagined on stage as a female shamanistic figure, blending African traditions with symbolic theatrical elements.
The Lion Ling
In this musical, the use of a rotating stage was integral to depicting the movement between the underworld and the world above, creating a cyclical, almost mythical atmosphere.
Hadestown
This musical, set in a fictional kingdom, features a prophecy that challenges traditional gender roles, including the character of Pythio, who is portrayed as a gender-fluid oracle."
Head Over Heels
This 1960 musical features a minimalist set is underscored by the iconic song 'Try to Remember.'
The Fantasticks
This musical's second act opens with the song 'No Way to Stop It,' in which characters Max and Elsa argue pragmatically about adapting to political changes.
The Sound of Music
The 1971 concept album of this musical was produced with a deliberately unconventional approach, including the use of electric guitar and synthesizers, which was groundbreaking for a musical score at the time."
Jesus Christ Superstar
In the 2002 Broadway production of this musical, the character of Mrs. Meers, initially written as a comedic villain, was reinterpreted to incorporate elements of vaudeville, drawing inspiration from early 20th-century theatrical traditions
Thoroughly Modern Millie
In this musical, the lead character is reimagined as a more empowered, exploring an alternate reality where she chooses her own fate.
& Juliet
This musical, featuring a neurotic, self-deprecating lead character was influenced by B-movie films from the 1950s.
Little Shop of Horrors