Must-See Broadway Shows to End Your Summer

As the summer season draws to a close, there's no better way to cap off the sun-filled days than visiting Broadway.

So, as the last days of summer approach, why not consider taking in a Broadway show with friends, family or coworkers? Here, we've got a list of must-see performances that will make your visit unforgettable.

EXPLORING COMING OF AGE ON STAGE

One show that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the season is & Juliet. This musical reimagines the classic tale of Romeo and Juliet but with a twist. What if Juliet didn't die at the end of Shakespeare's tragedy but instead embarked on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment? This is the premise of & Juliet, a modern take on the Bard's work that puts Juliet's narrative at the forefront. The musical score, created by songwriter Max Martin, is another highlight of the show. His pop anthems provide a modern soundtrack to Juliet's story.

Another musical that should be on your radar as summer ends is Hell's Kitchen, which shines a spotlight on the colorful, multicultural neighborhood of Hell's Kitchen in New York City. At its core, this is a coming-of-age story about finding one's place in the world. The show follows Ali, a teenage girl navigating relationships, dreams and the realities of urban living. The score for the musical is composed by none other than 16-time Grammy Award-winner Alicia Keys.

BROADWAY'S LOVE STORIES: ROMANCE TAKES CENTER STAGE

For romance lovers, The Great Gatsby, a theatrical adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's timeless novel, is a must-see this August. This tale of love and obsession in the opulent world of 1920s New York society is as enthralling on the stage as it is on the page. The show follows the enigmatic Jay Gatsby–played by Broadway veteran Jeremy Jordan–a man of immense wealth with a single-minded pursuit of the elusive Daisy Buchanan. The narrative is a heady mix of love, ambition and the American Dream.

The Notebook, based on Nicholas Sparks' best-selling novel, is another romantic Broadway musical that is sure to tug at your heartstrings. It's a story of a summer romance between Noah, a lower-class young man, and Allie, a well-to-do city girl, and the trials their love must endure. The show weaves three parallel narratives together—the young lovers' blossoming romance, their struggles in later life and the elderly Noah reading their story to the elderly Allie. The music, composed by singer and songwriter Ingrid Michaelson, adds another layer of depth to the narrative.

ART IMITATING LIFE: SPOTLIGHT ON MJ THE MUSICAL AND SUFFS

MJ the Musical is a tribute to the life and music of Michael Jackson. This Broadway show delves into the journey of the iconic pop star, exploring his early years with The Jackson 5 and his ascent to superstardom. The narrative is told through Jackson's own music, making it a true celebration of his legacy. The show's concert-like vibe sets it apart, and the dance numbers replicating Jackson's signature moves add a fresh Broadway spin.

SUFFS is another Broadway show based on real people, this time focusing on the suffragists who fought for women's right to vote. The narrative follows a group of women activists as they wage a tireless campaign for equality in early 20th-century America. The story is brought to life by the talented Shaina Taub, who not only stars in the production but also wrote the book, music and lyrics. The diverse cast reflects the wide spectrum of women who were involved in the suffragette movement. This show is a powerful reminder of the progress made in the past century, as well as the challenges that still lie ahead.

Experiencing Broadway with a group has a way of elevating the overall experience. There's something special about immersing yourselves in the world of the show with your loved ones, discussing it during intermission, and sharing thoughts and impressions. Plus, Broadway Inbound offers fantastic group discounts, making group outings even more appealing.

So why not gather your group, take advantage of BI's group discounts, and enjoy the best of Broadway? Prepare to be swept away by these unforgettable performances.

Courtesy of Broadway Inbound.

Photos courtesy of Matthew Murphy, Evan Zimmerman and Joan Marcus.