When characters step off the page | Literary adaptations on Broadway

Welcome to Broadway, where some of the most powerful stories ever written leap from the page to the stage in spectacular fashion. From the revolutionary rhymes of Hamilton, to the glittering tragedy of The Great Gatsby, adapted from F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel, literature has long been the backbone of some of Broadway’s biggest hits. Whether it’s To Kill a Mockingbird bringing Harper Lee’s courtroom drama to life or Les Misérables transforming Victor Hugo’s epic into soaring melodies, these shows prove that great books make unforgettable theater. Here are some of the greatest literary adaptations on Broadway stages, and how they take center stage!

Musicals

1. The Lion King

It's the circle of life, complete on Broadway. The Lion King will take you on a journey across the African savanna from Minskoff Theater. Inspired by Shakespeare’s Hamlet, this beloved musical follows Simba’s journey from exile to his rightful place as king, mirroring the timeless themes of fate, responsibility, and redemption. With beloved characters like the wise Rafiki, the scheming Scar, and the carefree duo Timon and Pumbaa, every moment is a visual and emotional triumph. Packed with heart, humor, and the thundering power of “Hakuna Matata,” The Lion King is a roaring Broadway masterpiece! The incredible puppetry, gorgeous masks and unforgettable characters set to grooving African rhythms will make you wish you were in Pride Rock. It's Shakespeare's Hamlet set to the thundering stampede of wildebeest and of course, "Hakuna Matata". Book your tickets for the roaring delight of a show!

2. Hamilton

Hamilton is a revolutionary Broadway sensation, blending hip-hop, jazz, blues, and R&B to bring America’s past into the present. Inspired by Ron Chernow’s biography Alexander Hamilton, Lin-Manuel Miranda crafted the script, music, and lyrics, transforming the story of the “ten-dollar Founding Father” into a cultural phenomenon. The show masterfully captures Hamilton’s rise from an orphaned immigrant to a key figure in shaping the U.S., mirroring Chernow’s detailed portrayal of his ambition, intellect, and rivalries—especially with Aaron Burr. With a Pulitzer Prize, two Olivier Awards, and multiple Tonys and Grammys under its belt, Hamilton brings together history buffs and theater lovers alike at the Richard Rodgers Theatre. 

3. The Great Gatsby

Follow the green light into the glittering world of The Great Gatsby in Broadway Theater., where F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel comes to life in a dazzling, jazz-fueled spectacle. This Tony-winning musical captures Jay Gatsby’s relentless pursuit of love and wealth, mirroring the novel’s haunting critique of the American Dream. Amid the champagne-soaked revelry of the Roaring Twenties, Gatsby, Daisy Buchanan, and Nick Carraway navigate a world of longing, illusion, and betrayal. With a score as intoxicating as Gatsby’s parties and a story as timeless as Fitzgerald’s prose, this Broadway adaptation is a must-see for lovers of classic literature and grand, tragic romance.

4. Wicked

We are off to see the Wizard, the wonderful Wizard of Oz A prequel to the Wizard of Oz, Wicked is based on a novel by Gregory Maguire. This musical centres around the hard-to-describe relationship between leads Elphaba and Glinda. With soaring songs like “Defying Gravity” and "Popular", Wicked is a lasting magical musical, even inspiring the film of the same name starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. Catch these two charming witches (and friends) at the Gershwin Theater.

5. The Outsiders

S.E. Hinton’s The Outsiders is a energetic adaptation of the novel, staged Bernard B. Jacobs theater. Meet Ponyboy, Johnny, and the rest of the Greasers as they stand together in a divided world. With a rock score that's pure energy, this production depicts divisions through socioeconomic status while also celebrating brotherhood and loyalty. Cheer for the underdogs with The Outsiders!

6. Gypsy

Gypsy is a revival of the highly praised 1957 musical, adapted from Arthur Laurents' book on the memoir of the legendary burlesque performer Gypsy Rose Lee. Audiences can turn back time to the heyday of vaudeville, following the driven Rose, Gypsy's mother as she sends her daughter into the jaws of the entertainment industry. Watch this show for a backstage glimpse into Hollywood and the perseverance it takes to make it big, with timeless songs such as "Let Me Entertain You" and "Everything's Coming Up Roses." Catch Audra McDonald in Gypsy at the Majestic Theater.

Plays

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

If a spell-binding show is what you're looking for, then dive headfirst into Harry Potter and the Cursed Child! It's a magical return to Hogwarts, where Harry, Hermione, and Ron have grown up. But no worries, the new generation of wizarding children will still supply you with time-turning, duels and magic effects that transport you beyond Platform 9 and 3/4th. This visually stunning production is packed with enchantment and nostalgia, the perfect show for both fans and Muggles.

The West End continues to captivate audiences by reimagining beloved literary works for the stage. Explore more timeless tales brought to life in unforgettable productions!