Broadway 2026 is shaping up to be a standout year, with new musicals, long-awaited revivals, and star-filled productions taking center stage. Whether you’re planning a New York trip or just love keeping up with the biggest shows, this guide gives you a quick look at what each production is about, why it stands out, and which ones deserve a spot on your must-see list.
Before diving in, here’s a quick guide to what you’ll find:
What You’ll Find in This Guide
Planning to see a Broadway show in 2026? This guide breaks down the shows that fans are already buzzing about. You’ll get a simple rundown of what each show is about, why it stands out, and two quick “armchair critic” reactions to help you decide which ones fit your style.
DOLLY: An Original Musical — A Brand-New Dolly Parton Story
Opening: 2026
What It’s About
A musical journey through Dolly Parton’s life—from her Tennessee roots to country music stardom—told with brand-new songs and heartfelt storytelling that only Dolly herself could write.
Why It Appeals
It’s an uplifting, nostalgic, star-driven production with built-in fan appeal for Dolly lovers and anyone who appreciates American storytelling.
Armchair Critics Weigh In
- Traditional Take: “A classic star-driven musical with the heart Broadway fans expect.”
- Contemporary Take: “A fresh, big-swing new musical that feels like a true 2026 event.”
Cats: The Jellicle Ball — A Broadway Legend Reborn
Opening: April 2026
What It’s About
The Jellicle Cats gather for one magical night to share their stories and compete for a chance at a new life—this time reimagined through the vibrant spectacle of drag ballroom culture.
Why It Appeals
It honors the original score and story while adding bold style, modern energy, and a visually electric atmosphere.
Armchair Critics Weigh In
- Traditional Take: “The music stays true, even if the vibe has claws.”
- Contemporary Take: “Finally—Cats with personality, swagger, and a look made for 2026.”
The Rocky Horror Show — A Cult Classic Returns
Opening: April 23, 2026
Starring: Luke Evans
What It’s About
A newly engaged couple gets swept into the wild, seductive world of Dr. Frank-N-Furter in this rock-and-roll sci-fi musical full of camp, chaos, and late-night fun.
Why It Appeals
Fans of the original movie, rock musicals, and big-character performances will love this new, high-glam staging.
Armchair Critics Weigh In
- Traditional Take: “Still outrageous, still iconic—just cleaner and louder.”
- Contemporary Take: “Peak kitsch, peak fun. A perfect night out show.”
Proof — A Star-Studded Revival With Serious Prestige
Opening: April 16, 2026
Starring: Ayo Edebiri, Don Cheadle, Samira Wiley
What It’s About
A young woman, daughter of a brilliant but mentally ill mathematician, must confront questions about her own genius when a groundbreaking proof surfaces in her father’s work.
Why It Appeals
It’s a gripping, emotional drama with powerhouse acting—ideal for fans who love serious, character-driven theater.
Armchair Critics Weigh In
- Traditional Take: “A faithful revival anchored by extraordinary performances.”
- Contemporary Take: “The casting alone makes this one of Broadway’s must-see events.”
Dreamgirls — A Long-Awaited Revival
Opening: Fall 2026
What It’s About
Following the rise of a girl group in the Motown era, Dreamgirls explores ambition, love, sacrifice, and the price of stardom—packed with some of the most iconic vocals in musical theater.
Why It Appeals
It’s a beloved Broadway classic returning with renewed energy, stunning vocals, and all the emotional punch audiences remember.
Armchair Critics Weigh In
- Traditional Take: “A classic done right—big voices, big emotions.”
- Contemporary Take: “A refreshed, revitalized revival that makes an icon feel brand new.”
The Lost Boys — An ‘80s Cult Classic With Bite
Opening: April 26, 2026
What It’s About
When a family moves to a California beach town, two brothers discover a gang of teenage vampires—leading to a stylish battle between youth, rebellion, and the supernatural.
Why It Appeals
It taps into ‘80s nostalgia while adding slick staging and rock-inspired theatricality.
Armchair Critics Weigh In
- Traditional Take: “Surprisingly faithful to the film’s spirit.”
- Contemporary Take: “Edgy, stylish, and built for fans of rock musicals.”
Schmigadoon! — Broadway’s Newest Feel-Good Musical
Opening: April 20, 2026
Stars: Alex Brightman, Sara Chase
What It’s About
A couple gets trapped inside a magical musical-theater town, where every emotion becomes a song-and-dance number. To escape, they must confront their own relationship.
Why It Appeals
Light, joyful, and full of winking humor, it’s perfect for casual theatergoers or fans of the Apple TV+ series.
Armchair Critics Weigh In
- Traditional Take: “A cheerful, classic-feeling musical that goes down easy.”
- Contemporary Take: “Smart, self-aware, and irresistibly charming.”
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil — A Southern Gothic Musical
Opening: 2026 (Date TBA)
What It’s About
Set in Savannah, the story follows a writer who becomes entangled in a high-profile murder trial that exposes the city’s secrets, eccentric personalities, and Southern decadence.
Why It Appeals
It’s atmospheric, sophisticated, and perfect for fans of true crime, southern stories, and intricate character drama.
Armchair Critics Weigh In
- Traditional Take: “Rich storytelling steeped in Southern Gothic charm.”
- Contemporary Take: “Moody, stylish, and tailor-made for fans of dark drama.”
Every Brilliant Thing — Daniel Radcliffe in an Intimate Solo Event
Opening: March 12, 2026
What It’s About
A narrator creates a growing list of life’s small joys—ice cream, laughter, a favorite song—as a way of navigating love, loss, and the complexity of adulthood. A single actor performs the entire show in conversation with the audience.
Why It Appeals
It’s heartfelt, funny, and deeply moving—perfect for fans who enjoy intimate, human-centered storytelling.
Armchair Critics Weigh In
- Traditional Take: “A tender piece of pure theater, beautifully delivered.”
- Contemporary Take: “Radcliffe proves he’s one of the most compelling performers working today.”
FAQs
The 2026 Broadway season features a mix of brand-new musicals, major revivals, and star-led plays. Notable titles include DOLLY: An Original Musical, Dreamgirls, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, The Lost Boys, Schmigadoon! and more.
First-time Broadway visitors often enjoy shows with big music, familiar stories, or strong visual appeal. In 2026, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, Dreamgirls, and Schmigadoon! are standout picks. They offer strong entertainment value, memorable performances, and spectacle that feels distinctly “Broadway.”
For high-demand productions—especially celebrity-led shows or major revivals—it’s best to buy tickets as soon as preview dates are announced. Many popular Broadway shows sell out prime weekend dates months in advance, particularly during holiday seasons and summer travel periods.