Beginner Musical

[ahhrealmonsters]

I'm seeing/dating someone who's never seen a musical. She wants to see one, and I don't know what a good show is to take her to. I'm looking for something fun and "accessible" for a first-timer. I'm thinking maybe Avenue Q. Any other suggestions? Thanks!

[dreaming]

Phantom, Les Miz, Wicked are all good choices.

[nanillo17]

In my opinion, On The Town is the best "accessible" musical on Broadway right now. It has good music, dancing and is representative of "old school" Broadway. I would highly recommend this as an option.

[dramamama611]

Avenue Q might be a tad "racey" depending on your relationship. But it's fun and I can't imagine anyone hating it.

But it really depends on her taste in music and themes.

[Someone in a Tree2]

Pippin could be the perfect starter musical-- It's got a great pop-inflective easy-to-enjoy score, it's got dazzlement and great entertainment value ("Magic To Do"), it's got an honest non-cheesy love story at its core, and it's about the basic questions of how to live your life. My two cents. (I'm probably biased since the OBC of PIPPIN was the 4th show I ever saw on Broadway.)

[promisespromises2]

Depends on how you want them to perceive Broadway. On the Town is a classic bway show, like other people mentioned.

Les Mis and Wicked were my gateway drugs into musicals.

[icantbelive]

I think Book of Mormon is a good choice. It all depends on the humor. Avenue Q is good too. Pippin, is excellent too. It all depends on what you are looking for though.

[macnyc]

Book of Mormon is so much fun, but the humor is definitely edgy. If you like South Park humor and don't mind the F word being thrown around, you'll love it.

I think I would recommend Kinky Boots for a great starter musical. It has it all: catchy songs, great choreography, good story, nice message of acceptance. Highly entertaining. Jersey Boys is another good one. My friend's sons really enjoyed it, which surprised me a bit as they are young (in their twenties), but there you go. Les Mis is beautiful and amazing, but it's definitely sad.

[Wilmingtom]

On the Town is more indicative of what a traditional Broadway musical is than some of the others. Pippin may lead her to think that broadway is Cirque du Soleil light and don't choose a jukebox muical.

[Fantod]

I'd go with Wicked. On the Town has quite a bit of ballet, and beautiful as it may be may be difficult to take on your first show. Wicked was my first show and got me hooked on theatre and is a very enjoyable and fun show, and is very popular with young people.

[Lovinbroadway2]

You'd probably have a good time at Wicked. The score is a bit awkward at times but beginners seem to always enjoy it. (Mainly because it's easy to watch and is a spectacle) I wouldn't suggest On the Town, Les Mis, or Q.

On the Town: Too old fashioned for beginners
Les Mis: Too boring and long for beginners
Avenue Q: Too racey for beginners.

BOM is up to you, but the tickets are expensive so I wouldn't do it.

[Phillypinto]

Side Show :)

[inception]

I disagree with just about everyone here.

If you are in New York and taking someone to their first musical the only show I would consider, if you want them to become obsessed with the art form is... Cabaret.

It is one of the greatest shows ever written, with fun catchy songs, a bit risque, yet emotionally moving in an honest and true manner.

[Mike Costa]

The current production of Cabaret is the way to go. Even every segue is perfection.

[KathyNYC2]

I agree about Cabaret but it's quite serious by topic obviously...

If you are looking for "FUN" as you mentioned, I agree with Kinky Boots.

But yes, it totally depends on what you think she would like and what type of music she enjoys.