Here’s a guide to some of our favourite musicals that have been created since the year 2000.
Hadestown:
It is impossible to resist the jazz and blues infused musical stylings of Amais Michell’s gorgeously scored musical that blends two mythological stories to great effect. There is such a wonderful and moody atmosphere throughout and there is a poetic quality to it that works really well for the story that unfolds. Particular favourite songs ‘Road to Hell’, ‘Wait For Me’ and ‘Way Down Hadestown’.
The Producers:
Based on the 1967 film directed by Mel Brooks, the 12 time Tony Award winning musical is a wonderful love letter to musical theatre. Having recently made a triumphant return to the West End, it is filled with glorious amount of theatrical in jokes catchy songs (with plenty of cheeky and hilarious lyrics to match) that makes it impossible to resist.
Come From Away:
Based on true of events of the community of Gander in Newfoundland who assisted the many people who found themselves stranded in the wake of the events of 9/11. It is a heartwarming story that focuses on the stories of those caught up in the circumstances and is really heartwarming from start to finish.
Wicked:
Stephen Schwartz’s musical based on Gregory Maguire’s novel in turn inspired by The Wizard of Oz continues to spellbind audiences due to its tale of friendship, sweepingly beautiful score and wonderful visuals. Its story about prejudice, judging people too quickly and good vs evil continues to resonate to this day.
In the Heights:
Now, we have always preferred In the Heights to to Hamilton in many ways. The vibrancy, sense of community that shines through the story and of course Lin-Manuel Miranda’s songs are simply joyous from start to finish. It is a musical that leaves you feeling very much part of the Washington Heights community – celebrating people’s dreams and individuality.
Hairspray:
Marc Shaiman and Scott Whittman’s musical about embracing your differences and using them to follow you dreams is such a central part to this wonderfully joyous musical that never fails to leave a smile on many people’s faces. Favourite songs include ‘You Can’t Stop the Beat’ and ‘Welcome to the 60’s.
Kinky Boots:
This exuberant, heartfelt musical based on a true story has never failed to delight when it returns to the stage. It deals with heavy topics with a delicate and heartwarming touch, with Cyndi Lauper’s music and lyrics capturing the story really well – with a touch of humour in places (listen to ‘History of Wrong Guys’ which is a favourite song).
Billy Elliot the musical:
It is hard to resist this story of Billy Elliot, a boy who discovers a dream of dancing against the wishes of his father set against the backdrop of the miners strike of the 1980’s. With music by Elton John and music and lyrics by Lee Hall, this musical is based on the film and is completely engaging from start to finish.
Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 :
It is a real shame that the Donmar Warehouse production from a couple of years ago didn’t have a longer run as it really told the story so beautifully. By taking a specific section of Tolstoy’s War & Peace and tell it with such attention to the characters, while musically Dave Malloy’s score has plenty to offer with songs such as ‘The Great Comet of 1812’ and ‘Letters’ proving to be particular highlights.
9 to 5 the Musical:
It would be remiss of us to mention of this delightful musical based on the hit film that starred the wonderful Dolly Parton. Telling the story a three women looking to defy their misogynistic boss and make changes at their 9 to 5 job, Dolly Parton’s score is simply delightful highlighting just how wonderful she was as a songwriter.