So you’re ready to dive into the world of musicals but don’t know where to start? Welcome to the club this is your official beginner’s guide!
Musicals are one of the most joyful and powerful art forms a mix of storytelling, music, and dance that hits every emotion. But let’s be real: if you pick the wrong first show, it can be overwhelming or, worse, off-putting. So today, I’m sharing a curated list of musicals for beginners whether you love modern stories or want to take a journey through Broadway history.
✨ 1. Start Here: Modern Musicals for Today’s Audience
If you’re new to musicals and want something that feels fresh and relatable, start here. These shows are accessible, diverse, and easy to find online plus, they reflect today’s world, not just Broadway’s past.
1. Waitress
- Why it’s a great first musical: Beautiful music, a heartfelt story, and a cozy small-town vibe that makes you feel right at home.
- Themes: Friendship, love, resilience, and (yes) pie.
- Vibe: Sweet, emotional, but also fun.
Want more on Waitress? Check out our cozy night in guide here.
2. 42nd Street (2019 Revival)
- Why it’s perfect for beginners: Classic Broadway tap dancing magic but in a polished, modern production.
- Themes: Dreams, showbiz, determination.
- Vibe: Glamorous, upbeat, and visually stunning.
3. Heathers: The Musical
- Why it’s a must watch: A cult favorite with dark humor and catchy songs for when you want something less “sweet” and more edgy.
- Themes: Teen drama, identity, rebellion.
- Vibe: Sharp, witty, and a little rebellious.
4. Mean Girls: The Musical
- Why to start here: If you love the movie, this is an easy way to ease into musicals with all the humor you expect, plus songs.
- Themes: Friendship, social pressure, high school life.
- Vibe: Playful, fun, and relatable.
5. Hamilton
- Why it belongs on this list: A cultural phenomenon that reshaped how we think about musicals a perfect bridge for people new to theater.
- Themes: History, ambition, love, loss.
- Vibe: Bold, dynamic, and emotional.
🎭 2. Want a Little Broadway History? Try These Classics
If you’re curious about the roots of Broadway and want to see what inspired today’s shows, here are a few historical gems to start with:
1. An American in Paris
- Why it’s great: Stunning dance and Gershwin’s iconic music a classic with incredible visual style.
- Themes: Love, art, Parisian life.
- Vibe: Elegant, romantic, and artistic.
2. West Side Story
- Why you should watch it: Timeless story and unforgettable music and it’s influenced countless musicals since.
- Themes: Love, rivalry, identity.
- Vibe: Powerful, dramatic, and still relevant.
3. Ain’t Misbehavin’
- Why it stands out: A celebration of Harlem’s music and Black culture fun, bold, and historic.
- Themes: Jazz, joy, cultural pride.
- Vibe: Energetic and full of life.
Full post on Ain’t Misbehavin’ here.
🛋️ 3. How to Pick Your First Musical (Hint: Follow What You Already Love)
Not sure where to start? Think about what you already enjoy:
| If You Love… | Start With… |
|---|---|
| Romantic stories | An American in Paris, Waitress |
| Edgy teen drama | Heathers, Mean Girls |
| History and big ideas | Hamilton |
| Classic Broadway vibes | 42nd Street |
| Jazz and culture | Ain’t Misbehavin’ |
Tip: Pick the vibe that fits your mood there’s no “right” way to start!
4. Make It a Whole Night (Because You Deserve It!)
Here’s how to turn watching your first musical into a full, artsy experience:
- Outfit: Cozy-chic (we love wide-leg pants, soft tops, and cozy socks these are our faves).
- Snacks: Pick something fun that matches the show (pie for Waitress, cupcakes for Mean Girls, popcorn for anything).
- Lighting: Dim the lights, light a candle, and pretend you’re sitting in the theater.
5. Final Thought
The world of musicals is huge, beautiful, and diverse and there’s a perfect first show for everyone. Whether you start with a modern story like Waitress or Heathers, or dip your toe into history with West Side Story, your first musical should feel like an invitation, not a test.
So get cozy, hit play, and let the music pull you in.
For more ideas on how to make arts nights part of everyday life, check out our Curtain Call Conversations and Musical Mondays series.
Because everyone deserves a little Broadway magic at home.
If you’ve been craving a way to move without judgment, Movement for Movement’s Sake offers 10 gentle days to reconnect with your body on your terms. HERE!
