Admissions Blog

Going to Broadway shows in NYC with Davi!

By Davira Chairunnisa '24
Posted May 06 2024
Davira_Broadway_Blog
Curtain Call at Wicked!

New York City is known for its rich impact within the arts, especially when it comes to Broadway. There is truly nothing like a Broadway show in NYC, especially the beautiful theatres themselves. Whether they were recently constructed or have been around since the early 1900s, the moment you step inside one of these Broadway theaters, you'll realize that they also possess a great deal of history. Every theater has a unique narrative.

My experience seeing Broadway shows has been nothing but amazing! It provides us access to stories that have become part of American pop culture. One way I seek out tickets is through the Arts Initiative at Columbia University which offers special price Broadway tickets for Columbia students every semester.  

Here are my top 5 Broadway shows that are currently playing in NYC. 

  1. Aladdin A whole new world... ~ truly! It’s an adaptation of the Aladdin movie, which will bring you back to your childhood memories. It's a magical, outstanding performance with amazing show properties and effects. Aladdin is truly a show for everyone; no doubt it has become one of the top 5 best-selling Broadway musicals. If you consider seeing a Broadway show for the first time, go for Aladdin! 
  2. Wicked This Broadway is wicked! I was totally amazed throughout the entire show. Visually stunning, the underlying themes are friendship and trust, as well as prejudice and intolerance. It explains how Elphaba evolved into the Wicked Witch and Glinda into the Good Witch in the Land of Oz, starting with their early friendship. This Tony Award-winning show is the second highest-grossing Broadway musical since 1982 and includes the hits “Defying Gravity” and “Popular”. It recently celebrated its 20th year on Broadway and has truly been a favorite of mine.

  3. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child  Unlike the other popular Broadway musicals, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a play, based on an original story written by J. K. Rowling. The story takes place nineteen years after Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. For any Potterheads, this should be on your next list. The special effects are totally amazing, and you will be surprised by unexpected scenes on the show. Plus, it’s great to step away from the musicals and see a play!
  4. The Lion King The Lion King on Broadway is based on the famous animated feature from 1994. It’s a spectacular show with festive costumes, choreography, and effects, that holds the record for the highest-grossing week. I could say it is the friendliest Broadway show for kids and families, which leaves a lasting impression on those who have seen it. Even if you are not a theater person, you might still enjoy The Lion King on Broadway.
  5. Kimberly Akimbo Opened in 2022, the 2023 Tony Award winning Best Musical tells the story of Kimberly, a bright and humorous Jersey girl who also happens to appear like a 72-year-old woman. The show was heartwarming but fun! It is a family kind of story and will touch you on so many levels. 

There is nothing else like Broadway. Award-winning sets and costumes set the stage for each story. Tick off your NYC bucket list by going to one of these Broadway shows! (...and thank me later :P)