Long-running shows on Broadway in New York

Broadway’s long-running shows have become beloved icons of theater, captivating audiences year after year. These productions represent the best of Broadway, known for their unforgettable music, compelling stories, and phenomenal performances. Here’s a guide to some of the longest-running shows in Broadway history, followed by newer hits that are poised to entertain for years to come.

Broadway Legends: The longest-running shows that made history

The Phantom of the Opera

  • The Phantom of the Opera is Broadway’s longest-running musical, enchanting audiences since its debut in 1988 at the Majestic Theater.
  • Andrew Lloyd Webber’s haunting love story, set in the Paris Opera House, features iconic songs like “The Music of the Night” and stunning stagecraft, including the famous chandelier drop.
  • The show won the Tony Award for Best Musical that year, with Michael Crawford also taking home the award for his iconic portrayal of the Phantom. The original Broadway production closed on April 16, 2023.

Cats

  • Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats held a special place on Broadway's Winter Garden Theater since its opening in 1982.
  • Inspired by T.S. Eliot’s poetry, the show featured iconic songs like “Memory” and a unique style of dance that captivated audiences around the world.
  • Cats received 11 Tony Award nominations and won in seven categories, including the award for Best Musical. The original Broadway production closed on September 10, 2000.

Les Misérables

  • Based on Victor Hugo’s novel, Les Misérables opened in 1987 and returned for a revival in 2014 at the Imperial Theater.
  • Known for its emotional score, including songs like “I Dreamed a Dream,” it’s a dramatic tale of revolution, redemption, and resilience.
  • Directed by Trevor Nunn, Les Misérables won six of its 10 Tony Award nominations, including the award for Best Musical. The Broadway revival production closed on 4 September 2016.

A Chorus Line

  • A Chorus Line held audiences’ attention with its unique look into the lives of dancers auditioning for a Broadway show.
  • Opening in 1975, it offered a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of theater through dance and memorable songs, at the Shubert Theater.
  • It featured a score by Marvin Hamlisch and Ed Kleban, along with a book by James Kirkwood and Nicholas Dante.
  • The musical swept the Tony Awards that season, taking home 9 out of its 12 nominations, including the coveted Best Musical award. The original Broadway production closed on April 28, 1990.

Mamma Mia!

  • Inspired by the music of ABBA, Mamma Mia! opened on Broadway in 2001 at the Winter Garden Theater.
  • Set on a Greek island, this light-hearted musical combines romance and comedy, featuring hits like “Dancing Queen” and “Take a Chance on Me.”
  • Mamma Mia! was nominated for five Tony Awards on Broadway, including Best Musical. The original Broadway production closed on September 12, 2015.

Broadway's new generation of long-running hits

These recent Broadway hits may not have been running for decades yet, but they continue to draw audiences and are expected to be part of Broadway’s future for years to come.