How To Pick The Right Show For A Musical Theatre Beginner
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Harriet Hards
We all have that one friend or family member that doesn’t fancy going to the theatre with you. They protest and complain when you bring it up and don’t believe you when you talk about how fantastic live musical theatre is. It’s hard to tell what’s putting them off; maybe the stereotypes of spontaneous dance routines and excessive jazz hands use? There are some that will never understand why you love it so much but there are plenty who just haven’t found the right show yet! So depending on what they’re into, here’s my pick of what shows to take them to!
One way of easing someone into musical theatre is by picking shows that feature songs they already love! Jukebox musicals provide just as much fun as others but aren’t too far out of their comfort zone. Got a friend who loves the music of Michael Jackson? Take them for an unforgettable night at Thriller Live! Is your sister a die-hard Beatles fan? Let It Be might just hold the key to their love of musicals.
An important part of musical theatre is the fun factor, the enthusiasm that can radiate throughout a whole theatre. Memphis and Mamma Mia! provide enthusiasm, entertainment and energy in bucket loads and will capture the heart of that Dancing Queen or King!
The Book Of Mormon is truly a laugh-a-minute musical, due to its genius lyrics and brilliant comic actors. Packed full of wit and hilarious quips, it’s hard to not fall in love with musicals when you’re laughing this much!
Those who love a film adaption: Billy Elliott
Before it was a hit musical, Billy Elliott was a film favourite of many; if they loved the original then adding music is the natural step up! The same lovable characters and uplifting story, but now with killer songs, what’s not to love?
Big musicals like these can really make you feel like you are transported to another place and time. These musicals create a spectacle and also draw you in to the emotional core of the plot. In Les Mis there are so many characters to relate to and root for, this makes for a better theatre experience as you become emotionally invested in the character arcs. These musicals also take place in specific periods in history; if your friend/family member is interested in the French Revolution, Vietnam War or 19th Century France, take them to see Les Misérables, Miss Saigon or Phantom Of The Opera.
Do you know someone who loves Roald Dahl’s timeless storytelling? You’re in luck because there’s not one but two musicals based on his books! The London musical productions of Charlie And The Chocolate Factory (Theatre Royal Drury Lane) and Matilda (Cambridge Theatre) are perfect for all ages and really show off all the talent London has to offer when it comes to putting together a killer show.
Those who are looking for fan favourites – The Lion King or Wicked
These two have been running for a very long time and continue to fill theatres every week. If you want to show your friend what the West End is all about, head towards The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre or Wicked at the Apollo Victoria Theatre for a fabulous evening full of musical magic!