Written By As the year comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on the best stage productions that graced our theaters. From Broadway to West End, there were countless shows that left audiences in awe. Here are our top picks for the best stage productions of the year.
1. Hamilton
It’s no surprise that Hamilton tops our list. This groundbreaking musical has taken the world by storm, and for good reason. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s masterpiece tells the story of Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s founding fathers, through a blend of hip-hop, R&B, and traditional show tunes. The cast’s energy and talent are unmatched, and the show’s themes of legacy, ambition, and sacrifice resonate with audiences of all ages.
2. The Inheritance
Matthew Lopez’s epic two-part play, The Inheritance, is a modern retelling of E.M. Forster’s Howards End. Set in contemporary New York City, the play explores the lives of a group of gay men who are grappling with the legacy of the AIDS epidemic. The Inheritance is a powerful and moving work that tackles important issues with sensitivity and grace.
3. Jagged Little Pill
Inspired by Alanis Morissette’s iconic album of the same name, Jagged Little Pill is a musical that tackles issues of addiction, sexual assault, and family dysfunction. The show’s book, written by Diablo Cody, is a masterful blend of humor and heartbreak, and the cast’s performances are nothing short of stunning. Jagged Little Pill is a must-see for anyone who loves powerful, socially relevant theater.
4. Moulin Rouge!
Based on Baz Luhrmann’s 2001 film of the same name, Moulin Rouge! is a dazzling spectacle that transports audiences to the bohemian world of turn-of-the-century Paris. The show’s score is a mix of contemporary pop hits and classic show tunes, and the cast’s performances are nothing short of electrifying. Moulin Rouge! is a feast for the senses that will leave you breathless.
5. Slave Play
Jeremy O. Harris’s provocative play, Slave Play, is a searing exploration of race, power, and sexuality. Set on a plantation in the antebellum South, the play follows three interracial couples as they engage in a series of sexual role-playing games. Slave Play is a challenging and thought-provoking work that pushes the boundaries of what theater can do.
In conclusion, these five productions represent the best of what theater has to offer. From the groundbreaking hip-hop of Hamilton to the searing exploration of race in Slave Play, these shows are not to be missed. Whether you’re a seasoned theatergoer or a newcomer to the world of live performance, these productions will leave you inspired, moved, and entertained.
