Four musicals that deserve more attention

The world of theatre is dominated by renowned works: Hamilton, Les Misérables, Cats, The Phantom of the Opera. Unfortunately, this results in other deserving products often being overshadowed. There is, however, a world of lesser-known musicals that rival these masterpieces in plot and emotional depth. They may not have the same public recognition, but their excellence is clear. I want to showcase my top picks for you in hopes of bringing them the attention they deserve.

Billy Elliot: The Musical

My favourite musical to date, by the way, and probably will be in years to come. If you’ve never seen Stephen Daldry’s 2000 film of the same name, you are at no disadvantage whatsoever. With music by Elton John, the musical revolves around Billy, an 11-year-old boy who secretly gives up boxing to start ballet lessons. Set against the 1980s miner’s strike in North-East England, the musical follows Billy’s struggles to express his true identity.

 This musical cleverly utilises comedy to challenge restrictive gender norms and with songs such as ‘Shine’ and ‘Express Yourself, it promotes the often overlooked view that ‘Boys can dance too,’ a motto which many of us would benefit from adding to our vocabulary.

This musical will have you both laughing and crying at the same time

The impressive dance numbers are the standout of this musical. Having to lead the entire show, Billy (played by Bradley Perret for me) was utterly outstanding and, for a mere 11-year-old boy, was truly professional. This musical will have you both laughing and crying at the same time, and I could not recommend it more.

A Bronx Tale

You may have heard of the 1993 film, but did you know there was a musical adaptation too? Though it is no longer running on Broadway, that in no way means it isn’t deserving of our recognition.

Exploring themes of romance, family and coming-of-age this makes you think about the choices you make

The original Broadway production was actually co-directed by Robert De Niro (the director of the film), and the musical opened at the Longacre Theatre in New York City towards the end of 2016. The story follows Calogero from childhood into adolescence, as neighbourhood mobster, Sonny, takes him under his wing and introduces him to the gang lifestyle of the Bronx. Exploring themes of romance, family, and coming-of-age, this musical truly makes you think about the choice you make in your life (wink, wink to those who know the song I’m referring to). With a flawed lead role, this musical teaches you a lot about growing up, and I wish more people knew of its existence.

Bonnie & Clyde

I only saw this musical recently and I already want to go again – it was that good, I swear. Based on the true story of lovers and outlaws Bonnie and Clyde, the musical adapts their story into one of dramatic, sing-song romance amid the Great Depression of the 1900s. The two actors I saw in the lead roles (Jordan Luke Gage and Frances Mayli McCann) truly carried the show. The effort and emotion (and probably extensive research) they put into making these characters come alive was outstanding, and their vocals were flawless.

[Watching this] will definitely be a hell-raising experience

Following a sell-out run at the Arts Theatre, this musical has returned for a new West End season at the Garrick Theatre. I implore you to watch this magnificent musical, even if it’s just a sneak peek on YouTube. However you do it, I can assure you that it will definitely be a hell-raising experience (wink, wink, again).

Hadestown

I feel like appreciation for this musical is increasing by the day, but it’s still not enough! I have yet to see this one in person but am very much aware of how sensational it is becoming. It tells the version of the well-known Greek myths Orpheus and Eurydice, and Hades and Persephone (just in a musical format). Performed by a talented ensemble of actors, the musical takes us on journey with two star-crossed lovers who must resist Hades and his oppressive underworld in order to be reunited.

I cannot wait for this show to come to the West End in 2024

I think what attracts me so much to this particular musical is its message. Anais Mitchell, the marvellous woman behind the music, book, and lyrics, sums it up perfectly: “One of the main themes in Hadestown is that there’s value in trying, even if we fail. Orpheus is a hero not because he succeeds, but because he tries.” I cannot wait for this show to come to the West End in 2024.

So, while there are many musicals out there that have won endless awards, gained massive popularity, and are generally known by everyone, remember that there’s more out there than you think. There are so many musicals just waiting for the appreciation and recognition that they deserve and the list that I have given you today is just a start.