When it comes to entertainment, we often turn to streaming services for the latest movies or binge-worthy shows, but let’s not forget the magic of Broadway musicals. Some productions have not only graced the stage but have done so for an extraordinary length of time, ranging from five years to an astonishing twenty-plus years. If you’re curious about the Broadway shows that have stood the test of time, here’s a captivating list of thirty-two productions that might just surprise you.
The Phantom’s Enduring Spell: The Phantom of the Opera (1988 – 2023)
Undoubtedly one of the most remarkable musicals, “The Phantom of the Opera,” featuring Michael Crawford as the Phantom and Sarah Brightman as Christine Daaé, ran on Broadway for an impressive 35 years. Its enchanting storyline and extraordinary vocals continue to captivate audiences.
Chicago’s All That Jazz: Chicago (1996 Revival) (1996 – Present)
“Chicago,” initially premiering in 1975, experienced a revival in 1996, starring Anne Reinking and Bebe Neuwirth. This revival has continued to dazzle audiences for 27 years, even inspiring a 2002 Academy Award-nominated film adaptation.
The Lion’s Roar: The Lion King (1997 – Present)
While “The Lion King” stands as a classic Disney Renaissance film, its Broadway adaptation, debuting in 1997, has been a roaring success for 26 years. The musical’s original cast, including John Vickery, Samuel E. Wright, and Jason Raize, brought the beloved characters to life.
Grease’s Electrifying Run: Grease (Original Production) (1972 – 1980)
Before becoming a cinematic sensation, “Grease” hit Broadway in 1972, capturing audiences’ hearts for an impressive eight years. With Barry Bostwick as Danny and Carole Demas as Sandy, the original production set the stage on fire.
Rent’s Impactful Legacy: Rent (1996 – 2008)
Jonathan Larson’s iconic musical, “Rent,” unfolded the lives of young artists in Manhattan during the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The original Broadway production, featuring Anthony Rapp, Adam Pascal, and Idina Menzel, ran for 12 years, leaving an indelible mark.
Life With Father’s Enduring Tale: Life With Father (1939 – 1947)
A unique entry, “Life with Father,” a non-musical play, graced Broadway for eight years in the earlier days. The story, written by Clarence Day, featured Howard Lindsay, Dorothy Stickney, and Teresa Wright in its original cast.
Tobacco Road’s Gritty Narrative: Tobacco Road (1933 – 1941)
“Tobacco Road,” a play from the 1930s, depicted the struggles of tobacco farmers in poverty. With an original cast including Henry Hull, Margaret Wycherly, and Dean Jagger, the non-musical play stood as the second-longest-running in its category.
Cats’ Purr-fect Performance: Cats (1982 – 2000)
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Cats,” a sung-through musical, graced Broadway for an impressive 18 years. Despite a less-than-stellar film adaptation in 2019, the original production, featuring Betty Buckley and Donna King, remains a classic.
Hello, Dolly! Hello, Longevity! (Original Production) (1964 – 1970)
“Hello, Dolly!” featuring Carol Channing as the matchmaker, ran for six years, proving that the quest for love and laughter on Broadway resonates with audiences.
Jersey Boys’ Harmonious Journey: Jersey Boys (2005 – 2015)
“Jersey Boys,” a jukebox musical celebrating The Four Seasons, enjoyed a successful ten-year run. With John Lloyd Young and Christian Hoff leading the original cast, the production delved into the band’s success and eventual breakup.
My Fair Lady’s Eloquent Run: My Fair Lady (Original Production) (1956 – 1962)
Running for six years, “My Fair Lady” followed the transformation of a young woman, played by Julie Andrews, taking speech lessons to pass as a lady. Rex Harrison reprised his role in the film adaptation.
A Chorus Line’s Dance to Success: A Chorus Line (1975 – 1990)
For fifteen years, “A Chorus Line” took center stage, revealing the stories of Broadway dancers vying for a coveted spot in a chorus line. The original production featured talents like Robert LuPone and Kelly Bishop.
Hairspray’s Bubbly Charm: Hairspray (2002 – 2009)
“Hairspray,” a musical about a young woman’s dreams of dancing on TV and sparking change, ran for seven years. With Marissa Jaret Winokur and Harvey Fierstein leading the cast, the production infused Broadway with infectious energy.
Mamma Mia!’s ABBA Extravaganza: Mamma Mia! (2001 – 2015)
A jukebox musical using ABBA’s music, “Mamma Mia!” entertained audiences for fourteen years. The original production, featuring Louise Pitre, Judy Kaye, Karen Mason, and Tina Maddigan, added a touch of Swedish flair to Broadway.
Fiddler On The Roof’s Timeless Tradition (Original Production) (1964 – 1972)
“Fiddler on the Roof” captured hearts for eight years, portraying the life of a Jewish milkman and his three daughters seeking love. Zero Mostel and Maria Karnilova led the original cast in this tale of tradition and change.
Mary Poppins’ Magical Sojourn (2006 – 2013)
Based on Julie Andrews’s beloved film, “Mary Poppins” took Broadway by storm for seven years. Ashley Brown as Mary and Gavin Lee as Bert brought the whimsical nanny’s magical adventures to life.
Wicked’s Enchanting Two Decades (2003 – Present)
Based on the novel reimagining the Wicked Witch of the West, “Wicked” has defied gravity, running for an astonishing twenty years. The original cast, featuring Idina Menzel and Kristen Chenoweth, continues to cast a spell on audiences.
Miss Saigon’s Emotional Odyssey (Original Production) (1991 – 2001)
Inspired by “Madame Butterfly,” “Miss Saigon” ran for ten years, unraveling the love story amidst the Vietnam War. Lea Salonga, Jonathan Pryce, and Willy Falk graced the original Broadway production.
Avenue Q’s Adult Puppetry (2003 – 2009)
“Avenue Q,” a unique blend of adult themes and puppetry, entertained audiences for six years on Broadway before moving off-Broadway. The original cast, featuring John Tartaglia and Stephanie D’Abruzzo, navigated real-life issues with humor.
Hamilton’s Revolutionary Tale (2015 – Present)
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s revolutionary musical “Hamilton” continues to make history, running for eight years and counting. The original cast, including Miranda, Leslie Odom Jr., and Renée Elise Goldsberry, redefined Broadway storytelling.
Beauty And The Beast’s Enchanted Run (1994 – 2007)
Based on the Academy Award-winning film, “Beauty and the Beast” ran for thirteen years, enchanting audiences with the tale as old as time. Susan Egan and Terrence Mann led the original cast in this magical journey.
Kinky Boots’ Stride of Pride (2013 – 2019)
“Kinky Boots,” a musical celebrating individuality and acceptance, strutted across Broadway for six years. Billy Porter, Stark Sands, and Annaleigh Ashford brought the uplifting story to life.
Harry Potter’s Magical Continuation (2018 – Present)
“Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,” a sequel to the beloved series, has been weaving magic on Broadway for five years. The original cast, including Jamie Parker and Anthony Boyle, brought J.K. Rowling’s magical world to the stage.
The Producers’ Hilarious Caper (2001 – 2007)
Based on the classic film, “The Producers” ran for six years, delighting audiences with the comedic exploits of two Broadway producers. Nathan Lane, Matthew Broderick, and Cady Huffman led the original cast.
42nd Street’s Tap-Dancing Extravaganza (Original Production) (1980 – 1989)
“42nd Street,” inspired by the 1933 film, tap-danced its way into Broadway history with a nine-year run. The original cast, including Wanda Richert and Jerry Orbach, transported audiences to the dazzling world of Broadway during the Great Depression.
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical’s Harmonious Journey (2014 – 2019)
“Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” celebrated the iconic singer’s life for five years. The jukebox musical, featuring Jessie Mueller and Jake Epstein, echoed the beautiful melodies of Carole King’s career.
Les Misérables’ Enduring Revolution (Original Production) (1987 – 2003)
One of the most well-known musicals, “Les Misérables,” ran for an impressive sixteen years. The original Broadway production, featuring Colm Wilkinson and Terrence Mann, brought Victor Hugo’s masterpiece to life.
Oklahoma!’s Classic Appeal (Original Production) (1943 – 1948)
“Oklahoma!” brought classic charm to Broadway, running for five years. Alfred Drake, Joan Roberts, and Howard da Silva led the original cast, portraying a tale of love and choices against the backdrop of farm life.
Rock Of Ages’ Rock ‘n’ Roll Journey (2009 – 2015)
“Rock of Ages,” a jukebox musical set in the 1980s, rocked Broadway for six years. Constantine Maroulis, Amy Spanger, and Mitchell Jarvis took audiences on a nostalgic journey through classic rock hits.
The Book Of Mormon’s Hilarious Mission (2011 – Present)
Created by the masterminds behind South Park, “The Book of Mormon” has been a comedic sensation for twelve years. Josh Gad, Andrew Rannells, and Brian Tyree Henry led the original cast on a side-splitting mission to Africa.
Annie’s Timeless Optimism (Original Production) (1977 – 1983)
“Annie,” based on the Little Orphan Annie comic strip, spread optimism on Broadway for six years. Andrea McArdle, Reid Shelton, and Dorothy Loudon portrayed the heartwarming tale of an orphan’s transformation.
Aladdin’s Magical Carpet Ride (2014 – Present)
“Aladdin,” based on the Disney film, soared on Broadway for nine years and counting. The original cast, including Adam Jacobs and James Monroe Iglehart, took audiences on a magical carpet ride through Agrabah.
In conclusion, these Broadway shows have not only entertained but have become an integral part of cultural history. Their enduring popularity speaks to the timeless appeal of live theater, where stories come to life on stage, creating memories that last a lifetime. As the curtains rise and fall, these musicals continue to leave an indelible mark on the hearts of audiences, proving that the magic of Broadway is indeed everlasting. So, if you find yourself humming a show tune, you’re not alone – it’s the spirit of Broadway, inviting you to join the applause for these extraordinary productions.
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