6 Broadway Anniversaries You Can’t Miss
Broadway fans, get ready to celebrate! This April marks the anniversaries of not one, not two, but six beloved musicals. From heartwarming tales to high-energy rock operas, these shows have captured the hearts and imaginations of audiences young and old. So, let’s take a closer look at these milestones and the shows that have become timeless classics.
Kinky Boots: A Decade of Fabulousness
First up is Kinky Boots, which opened on Broadway ten years ago on April 4. This joyous show, with music by Cyndi Lauper and book by Harvey Fierstein, won six Tony Awards, including Best Musical. The story follows Charlie Price, who inherits his father’s struggling shoe factory and finds inspiration in the form of drag queen Lola. Together, they work to turn the factory around and discover unexpected friendship along the way.
Mean Girls: Five Fetch Years
April 8 marks five years since the Broadway premiere of Mean Girls, based on the hit movie by Tina Fey. This “Cautionary Tale” follows high school newcomer Cady Heron as she tries to navigate the treacherous world of popularity, led by the fearsome Regina George. With a Tony-nominated score by Jeff Richmond and Nell Benjamin, this show has become a modern classic, inspiring a new generation of theatregoers.
Matilda The Musical: A “Revolting” Decade
On April 11, Matilda The Musical celebrates its 10th anniversary on Broadway. This show, adapted from Roald Dahl’s beloved book, tells the story of a young girl with incredible powers who stands up to her tyrannical headmistress. With a Tony-winning book by Dennis Kelly and music and lyrics by Tim Minchin, Matilda is a delightful celebration of childhood imagination and resilience.
A Year with Frog and Toad: Two Decades of Friendship
April 13 marks 20 years since the Broadway premiere of A Year with Frog and Toad, based on Arnold Lobel’s beloved children’s books. This whimsical show follows two best friends, the cheerful Frog and the grumpy Toad, as they navigate the ups and downs of the four seasons. With music by Robert and Willie Reale, this charming musical is perfect for audiences of all ages.
The Who’s Tommy: 30 Years of Rock and Roll
On April 22, The Who’s Tommy celebrates 30 years since its Broadway premiere. This groundbreaking rock opera, based on the iconic 1969 concept album, tells the story of a young man who rises to fame as a pinball wizard. With music and lyrics by Pete Townshend and a Tony-winning direction by Des McAnuff, this show is a high-energy tribute to the power of music and the human spirit.
She Loves Me: 60 Years of Romance
Finally, on April 23, She Loves Me celebrates 60 years since its Broadway premiere. This romantic comedy, based on the play Parfumerie by Miklós László, tells the story of two shop clerks who don’t get along but find themselves falling in love through anonymous letters. With music by Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick and a book by Joe Masteroff, this charming show has stood the test of time and inspired many adaptations, including the beloved film You’ve Got Mail.
In conclusion, these six musicals have left an indelible mark on Broadway history and continue to capture the hearts of audiences around the world. Whether you’re in the mood for a heartwarming tale of friendship, a high-energy rock opera, or a romantic comedy, there’s something for everyone in these timeless shows. If you want to celebrate these anniversaries by reading the librettos of these iconic shows, head to Music Theatre International’s website. MTI is a leading licensing agency, empowering schools, community theatres, and professional theatres worldwide to create unforgettable theatrical experiences. Let’s raise a glass to these anniversaries and the joy they continue to bring to theatre lovers everywhere.
