Top 5 Broadway Shows You Must See As An NYU Student
Living in New York City, Broadway is right at our doorsteps. As NYU students, it’s almost a rite of passage to see at least a few shows during our time here. Whether you have been a life-long Broadway fan or are a new student looking to experience the entertainment that has defined New York City for years, there are endless opportunities. You can choose to partake in the student rush experience (camping out by the box office for student discounted tickets), test your luck with lottery deals, or use NYU ScholasTix (NYU’s ‘clearinghouse,’ which sells tickets to NYU students, faculty and staff at a discounted price) to see a Broadway show affordably. Whichever path you pick, there are just some shows that everyone has to see, both theater lovers and newbies alike.
Here are my top five shows you can’t miss during your time at NYU:
5. Moulin Rouge! The Musical
Moulin Rouge is the show to see if you are seeking Broadway at its core, and it is the ideal ‘gateway’ show into Broadway for those who are not familiar with the theater world. Because it is the only jukebox musical on the list (meaning the show uses existing music rather than original songs), you walk into the theater knowing and loving the music. Based on the iconic 2001 movie, the story follows Christian and Satine’s love story in Paris at the start of the 20th century. The costumes, the dance numbers, the plot and the music are all enthralling – and the combination of these leads to an experience that’s precisely what you would expect when you hear the word ‘Broadway.’
4. Hadestown
If you love Greek mythology mixed with American folk and New Orleans jazz music, Hadestown is the show for you. The eight-time Tony Award-winning and Grammy-winning show has won over the hearts of many. A retelling of the classic tale of Orpheus and Eurydice, intertwined with the story of Hades and Persephone, this show provides an incredible blend of catchy music, captivating storytelling and dynamic dancing and staging. A night viewing this performance gives you a taste of everything Broadway has to offer.
3. The Book Of Mormon
Imagine watching an episode of South Park in a theater with music from Grammy-winning songwriters and incredible dance numbers – that’s a small glimpse into The Book of Mormon. The nine-time Tony Award winner first opened in 2011, and you quickly realize why it has been around for so long. The show about an unlikely pairing of two Mormon teens set to embark on their mission has the theater filled with laughter the whole night.
2. Wicked
This list can’t be complete without mentioning Wicked. The story follows Oz before Dorothy drops in, examining the relationship between Glinda the Good Witch and Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West. Most people know the story due to the recent release of the Universal film, but seeing this show on stage is truly life-changing. The set design, ensemble, and musical composition make the story pop on stage and continue to appeal to audiences 21 years after its opening.
1. Hamilton
Of course, Hamilton has to be at the top of this list. A retelling of the history of New York City, the American Revolution and the life of Alexander Hamilton, this show immediately grabs the audience's attention. With its impressive score that mixes R&B, rap, hip-hop and jazz, the show is packed with emotions of love, honor and passion, and depicts the making of a true legacy. Hamilton is a fan-favorite for many, and it is most definitely the #1 must-see show, especially if you are living in New York City.
As an NYU student, you simply have to go to a Broadway show. Whether it’s one of the shows listed above or another incredible piece that is currently open, Broadway is the heart of New York City and one of the greatest forms of live entertainment there is.