The Top 7 Musicals to See as a College Student

By Amanda Olavarria on July 31, 2017

As college students, we are always looking for fun and exciting entertainment. If you are looking for an activity to keep you entertained and amused, attending a musical can be a great option for you.

When it comes to musicals people either love or hate them, but I truly believe there is a musical for every person out there. The great thing about musicals and shows, in general, is that they vary in genre. Whether you are in the mood for a drama, comedy, or romance, there is a musical for you.

Musicals can be exciting, fun, and captivating, but most importantly allow you to have a good time without having to move from the comfort of your seat. Musicals are just the kind of entertainment busy college students need to relax and have some fun. Check out the seven top musicals college students are sure to love.

Bybradleypjohnson- IMG_3768, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=17115356

1. Wicked 

Wicked takes the story of Oz we all know and love from a different approach. The story takes place long before Dorothy arrived at Oz and centers on the relationship between Elphaba (later known as the Wicked Witch of the West) and Glinda (the Good Witch). They start off as roommates, then friends, but their relationship takes a rocky turn when she is deemed wicked by the people of Oz and Glinda, good.

2. The Phantom of the Opera 

This musical in particular is the longest running Broadway musical to date. It has been one of the most popular musicals for years and it is evident that the demand has not died down.

The story is one of a disfigured composer (the Phantom), who lives beneath an opera house in Paris. The eerie composer quickly becomes interested in Christine, a young soprano, and begins to tutor her. However, when a young man attempts to court Christine, the Phantom begins to terrorize the opera house in a fit of jealousy.

If you are looking for the perfect combination of romance and drama, The Phantom of the Opera is just the musical for you.

3. Hairspray

Hairspray is about a fun plus-sized teen named Tracy Turnblad who dreams of dancing on The Corny Collins Show. When in detention with some African American students, they show her some moves, which eventually helps her land a spot on the show.

While on the show, she transforms from typical teen to a star. With this newfound fame, she uses the show as a platform to promote racial integration on television and influence social change. This musical is sure to make you get on your feet and dance.

4. Kinky Boots 

Looking for a fun time? Go see Kinky Boots, a show that guarantees no dull moments. The musical is about Charlie Price who, after his father’s death, returns to their struggling family factory. Charlie eventually meets Lola, a drag queen, who convinces him to sell women’s shoes for men.

Charlie and Lola team up to create these shoes in the factory. If you are looking for a show that is both completely entertaining and satisfying, then Kinky Boots is for you.

5. Waitress 

This musical is new compared to the many Broadway classics since it premiered just last year. However, this show scored by Grammy Award-winning Sara Bareilles has been getting quite the buzz.

The Waitress, which is based on the 2007 film, is about Jenna, a pregnant waitress in an abusive marriage, who is seeking her happy ending. She soon finds her pie expertise might be just the thing she needs to turn her life around. Enjoy this fun new musical, sure to leave you inspired and empowered.

6. The Book of Mormon

The Book of Mormon is about two Mormon missionaries who go to Uganda to convert citizens to the Mormon faith. While there they learn about the pressing issues of the society such as AIDs, poverty, and violence. Upon these discoveries, they start to believe their mission might be harder than expected.

Despite the somewhat heavy topics, the Book of Mormon is just the kind of lighthearted musical that will keep you laughing.

7. Hamilton 

This Tony Award-winning musical has gotten quite the praise from critics. Hamilton is the story of Alexander Hamilton and how he went from a bastard orphan to an American war hero. This hip-hop musical details the ways in which Hamilton shaped American history.

This show has even been deemed “the most significant of our decade.” If you looking to explore the era of our founding fathers, look no further than Hamilton.

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