New York’s Broadway is home to some of the most celebrated musicals in the world. Each season brings new productions—some become massive hits, while others close in less than a year. In this competitive world of Broadway, here are the shows that have achieved over 1,000 performances and are still running today. (As of November 14, 2018)
Top 5 Longest-Running Broadway Shows (Currently Playing)
1st: The Phantom of the Opera
- Performances: 12,806
- Opened: January 26, 1988
- Theatre: Majestic Theatre
Holding the record as the longest-running show not only among current productions but in Broadway history,
The Phantom of the Opera continues to enchant audiences with its timeless story and music.
2nd: Chicago
- Performances: 9,131
- Opened: November 14, 1996
- Theatre: Ambassador Theatre
The sultry, jazz-filled musical
Chicago ranks second among Broadway’s longest-running shows. Its timeless style, unforgettable choreography, and iconic songs have made it a global favorite.
3rd: The Lion King
- Performances: 8,735
- Opened: November 13, 1997
- Theatre: Minskoff Theatre
The beloved Disney musical
The Lion King ranks third among all-time Broadway hits. Its stunning puppetry, visuals, and score continue to draw audiences from around the world.
4th: Wicked
- Performances: 6,270
- Opened: October 30, 2003
- Theatre: Gershwin Theatre
Celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2018,
Wicked remains one of Broadway’s most popular and highest-grossing shows, captivating fans with its story of friendship and magic.
5th: The Book of Mormon
- Performances: 3,187
- Opened: March 24, 2011
- Theatre: Eugene O’Neill Theatre
Winner of nine Tony Awards,
The Book of Mormon combines sharp wit, bold humor, and brilliant music, earning its place among Broadway’s longest-running hits.
6th–11th Longest-Running Broadway Shows (Currently Playing)
6th: Kinky Boots
- Performances: 2,329
- Opened: April 4, 2013
- Theatre: Al Hirschfeld Theatre
After a five-year run and a Tony Award for Best Musical,
Kinky Boots ended its Broadway performances on April 7, 2019. It remains one of the most inspiring modern Broadway stories.
7th: Beautiful – The Carole King Musical
- Performances: 2,008
- Opened: January 12, 2014
- Theatre: Stephen Sondheim Theatre
Featuring the life and music of singer-songwriter
Carole King,
Beautiful became a surprise long-running hit, beloved by audiences for its nostalgia and soulful performances.
8th: Aladdin
- Performances: 1,940
- Opened: March 20, 2014
- Theatre: New Amsterdam Theatre
Disney’s
Aladdin is one of Broadway’s most family-friendly hits. With dazzling sets and unforgettable songs, it continues to attract audiences of all ages.
9th: Hamilton
- Performances: 1,357
- Opened: August 6, 2015
- Theatre: Richard Rodgers Theatre
Winner of 11 Tony Awards and a record 16 nominations,
Hamilton revolutionized Broadway with its fusion of hip-hop, history, and heart. Tickets remain among the most sought-after on Broadway.
10th: School of Rock
- Performances: 1,219
- Opened: December 6, 2015
- Theatre: Winter Garden Theatre
Created by Andrew Lloyd Webber,
School of Rock ran for about three years before closing on January 20, 2019. Its blend of rock music and child prodigies left a lasting impression.
11th: Waitress
- Performances: 1,057
- Opened: April 24, 2016
- Theatre: Lena Horne Theatre
With its heartfelt story and songs by Sara Bareilles,
Waitress surpassed 1,000 performances, joining the ranks of Broadway’s modern long-running successes.
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