The Most Enduring Broadway Musicals: Their History and Impact

Introduction

Broadway is renowned for its ability to produce emotionally stirring and culturally significant musicals that leave a lasting impact on audiences. Among the many timeless productions, a few stand out as such longstanding hits that have captivated theatergoers for decades. This article delves into the history and remarkable run times of some of Broadway's most enduring musicals: The Phantom of the Opera, Chicago, The Lion King, Cats, and Wicked.

The Phantom of the Opera

A Global Phenomenon (1988 - Present)

The Phantom of the Opera, one of Andrew Lloyd Webber's most iconic works, was first introduced to Broadway in 1988 and has since been a worldwide hit. This multi-award-winning masterpiece has amazed audiences for over three decades and has graced the stage of Broadway's Majestic Theatre for no less than 13,981 performances. The story of the mysterious and tragic character who blackmails Christine, the young soprano of the Paris Opera House, continues to enchant new generations of theater enthusiasts.

Chicago

A revival with staying power (1996 - present)

Chicago, a musical that originally ran for less than two years in its Broadway debut in 1975, was given a new lease on life through a successful revival in 1996. The revised and updated version, currently staged at the Ambassador Theatre, has taken the production to new heights. With over 10,000 performances and numerous award-winning accolades, it has featured a long list of notable performers, including Bebe Neuwirth, James Naughton, and Ann Reinking. Celebrity guest stars like Jerry Springer, Wendy Williams, and Usher have also made significant appearances, keeping the show fresh and engaging.

The Lion King

A record-breaking sensation (1997 - present)

The Lion King is a Disney Theatrical production that turned Broadway on its head in 1997. Directed by Julie Taymor, this show redefined musical theater by bringing to life a world filled with animals through life-sized puppets and a stunning African-inspired aesthetic. With a running gross of over $1.5 billion, it is the highest-grossing Broadway musical ever. This family-friendly retelling of the African savannah has become a permanent fixture on Broadway, attracting both parents and their children to witness the magic of this majestic animal kingdom on stage.

Cats

An iconic and visual spectacle (1982 - 2000, then returned in 2012)

Cats, another Andrew Lloyd Webber masterpiece, was an instant classic upon its 1982 Broadway debut. Based on T.S. Eliot's poetry collection, this highly visual and artistic musical relied on a grand cast of performers and intricate choreography to bring the feline world to life. Though it closed after 18 years in 2000, the enduring appeal of the show led to a renaissance in 2012, allowing this groundbreaking production to continue entertaining new audiences. Fun fact: Elaine Paige, famous for her role as Grizabella, was last-minute replaced by Judi Dench under mysterious circumstances during the London run.

Wicked

Smart and charming (2003 - present)

Wicked, Stephen Schwartz's groundbreaking family-friendly musical, reimagines the story of The Wizard of Oz. Based on the 1995 novel by Gregory Maguire, this production has received widespread acclaim for its thought-provoking narrative and memorable characters. Kristin Chenoweth's portrayal of the upbeat and colorful Glinda, Idina Menzel's powerful and complex Elphaba, and Norbert Leo Butz's charming Fiyero are just a few of the elements that have made this show a beloved classic. With over 7,500 performances, Wicked has become a staple of Broadway and continues to draw audiences with its compelling story and energetic performances.