Broadway musicals draw on many kinds of source material, from books to true stories and more. Here, we spotlight Broadway shows that are adapted from films.
Movies span action, romance, CG-driven spectacles, and animation. In fact, no fewer than 72 Broadway musicals have been adapted from films so far. Some began as cultural phenomena at the cinema; others are well-known movies you might not realize made the leap to the stage. Out of those 72, how many do you know?
Top 5 film-to-stage musicals now playing
No. 5: School of Rock
Based on the 2003 comedy starring Jack Black. The Broadway production began performances and is now nearing the end of its run.Even people who rarely listen to rock find themselves swept up by the music and live band, which brings concert-level energy to the theatre. Keep an eye on the prodigiously talented kid musicians playing the students. It’s the last chance to catch School of Rock on Broadway—don’t miss it!
No. 4: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
The stage sequel to the blockbuster film series began in March 2018 and remains a sensation. Presented in two parts, the total running time exceeds five hours.Fans will love the continuation of the wizarding world, and newcomers can still be fully immersed at the redesigned Lyric Theatre. To realize stage magic once possible only on film, the venue was reconfigured with fewer seats and enhanced stage mechanics. Performances by members of the Olivier Award-winning original company are a must-see.
No. 3: Frozen
A cultural juggernaut on screen, Frozen was slated for the stage early on. The Broadway version adds original numbers and assembles a creative team packed with Tony winners to refine the show to the highest level.Since its February 2018 Broadway launch, the production has embraced cutting-edge tools—LED screens, projection mapping, and more—bringing the movie’s visual magic to life on stage. This Broadway-only take on Arendelle is a must.
No. 2: The Lion King
Disney’s beloved classic. Many know the long-running production at home, but Broadway’s Lion King has a distinct power of its own.Set in Africa, the show features a large number of Black performers, and the Minskoff Theatre has been tailored to the production’s scale and mechanics. It remains a consistent sell-out—and we can offer discount pricing.
No. 1: Aladdin
Topping the list is Disney’s universally loved Aladdin. It opened on Broadway at the New Amsterdam Theatre in March 2014, earned five Tony nominations, and proved its theatrical chops. Nearly four years of development led to stagecraft of the highest order—especially the famed magic-carpet sequence, a pinnacle even among Disney on Broadway productions. It’s our top pick for first-time Broadway visitors.
Broadway Musical Discount Tickets – On Sale Now!
Find the best Broadway ticket deals right here – faster, cheaper, and backed by local expertise. Get ready to experience the magic of Broadway!
- Get discount tickets easily with instant booking
- The most detailed musical guides and reviews
- Dedicated support throughout your Broadway experience
