Why just read about dramatic irony when you can place students in a Broadway audience to see it unfold before their very eyes—or history, playing out in period costumes and political subtext; or perspective, shifting with every character’s truth onstage.
Broadway is not just a showcase of entertainment; it’s an educational powerhouse where shows ignite insightful dialogue and challenge students to think beyond the obvious. For those stepping into this vibrant world, the magic lies in performances that awaken the mind. They tackle social issues, inspire personal reflection, and redefine storytelling’s boundaries. From the resonance of ancient myths to the complexities of modern life, these productions nurture young minds, ensuring the lessons linger long after the applause fades. So, gather your students for an unforgettable, enlightening journey that promises both awe and introspection.
Inspire the Next Generation of Performers – Introduce students to the magic of Broadway with guidance from Student Travel Pro and hassle-free booking via Broadway Inbound.
Here are just a few of our favorite Broadway musicals—packed with educational potential and perfect for sparking conversation in the classroom.
Hadestown
Set in a world where the divine and the human intersect, Hadestown intertwines and reimagines the timeless Greek myths of Orpheus and Eurydice and Hades and Persephone with a fresh, modern twist. Picture a post-apocalyptic, Depression-era America with a dash of New Orleans charm—especially the vibe of the French Quarter. This unique setting is perfectly paired with a musical score by singer-songwriter Anäis Mitchell that blends American folk and New Orleans jazz, creating a soundscape that’s as enchanting as it is haunting.
It’s more than just a show—it’s a conversation starter. With its deep dive into Greek mythology, the musical ties seamlessly into literature and history lessons, making those age-old stories of the human condition come alive with renewed urgency and emotional depth. The plot is packed with intriguing moral dilemmas—the choices and ultimate fates of Eurydice and Orpheus fuels debates about ethics, decision-making, trust, and the consequences of doubt. The show’s portrayal of the lush, vibrant world of Persephone above versus the gritty, industrial underworld ruled by Hades can inspire lively discussions on societal issues like wealth inequality and environmental concerns.
With its rich storyline, captivating music, and meaningful themes, Hadestown offers an unforgettable exploration of what it means to hope in a hopeless world.
SIX
In the musical SIX, the lives of Henry VIII’s wives have traveled far from the schoolyard chant “divorced, beheaded, died…”—reclaimed and remixed into a bold, empowering pop concert where each queen steps forward to tell her own story, in her own voice.
Each ex-wife vies for the audience’s sympathy in a high-stakes sing-off in order to crown herself the queen with the most tragic tale—or the most triumphant comeback. The show brilliantly remixes 500 years of heartbreak with present-day girl power, transforming historical narratives into empowering pop anthems.
SIX encourages reflection about historical perspectives and who gets the spotlight in storytelling. It challenges us to consider how history is told and retold, inviting both history buffs and music fans alike to engage in a lively dialogue. And by the end you’ll leave with a new understanding of “divorced, beheaded, died”—not an ominous chant, but the start of six bold voices taking back their herstory.
Operation Mincemeat
Who says history has to be a snooze-fest? Operation Mincemeat is here to prove otherwise, mixing espionage with showbiz flair to create a musical that’s both hilarious and riveting. Based on the audacious true tale from 1943, this show chronicles the British deception operation where a cleverly disguised corpse led the Axis powers astray about the Allied invasion of Sicily during World War II. Sounds like a page-turner from a spy novel, right? But this is all real, and now it’s on a Broadway stage—complete with songs, dance numbers, fast-paced farce, and a little theatrical chaos.
The musical offers a fantastic opportunity for classroom discussions around themes of creativity, strategy, and historical innovation. It shows how a small, unconventional idea had a major impact on the course of the war, making it a great starting point for conversations about the role of intelligence and deception in history. Students can also explore how humor and music are used effectively in storytelling, even with serious historical subjects, creating a perfect blend of entertainment and education, with a side of spy-craft and showbiz!
The Outsiders
Sometimes musicals can really pack a punch (pun intended). The musical adaptation of The Outsiders hits the stage swinging, with all the raw energy and emotion of S.E. Hinton’s beloved novel. This show takes us deep into the gritty world of the Greasers and the Socs, two rival groups divided by class and circumstance. Set in the 1960s, it’s a timeless tale of friendship, loyalty, and finding your identity amidst chaos.
Ponyboy Curtis and Johnny Cade, our young protagonists, navigate a world where just one wrong move can spark fierce conflict. Their journey is charged with intense themes of class struggle, the pains of growing up, and the yearning for belonging—universal issues that resonate across generations. With a backdrop of rock-infused tunes and heartfelt ballads, the musical deepens these themes, allowing us to truly feel their struggles and triumphs.
Discussions in the classroom can delve into themes like class conflict, identity, and resilience in the face of adversity. The music enhances the emotional depth, offering a new way to engage with Hinton’s story. It’s not just about the fights and the turf wars; it’s about understanding and empathy.
Death Becomes Her
Sarcasm and irony can sometimes be difficult concepts to grasp. But when they come delivered with deadpan punchlines and full-blown chorus numbers, it becomes a little easier to understand (and a lot more fun to teach)!
Death Becomes Her is a wickedly entertaining Broadway musical that combines supernatural antics with sharp satire. Based on the 1992 film, the story follows the rivalry between glamorous actress Madeline Ashton and overshadowed writer Helen Sharp. Their comedic feud escalates when Madeline steals Helen’s fiancé, prompting Helen to seek revenge through mysterious socialite Viola Van Horn’s magical potion. With newfound youth and beauty, Madeline and Helen navigate their bizarre new lives while their eternal grudge simmers.
The musical is ripe for classroom discussions on themes like vanity, rivalry, and the pursuit of youth—depicting the lengths people will go to defy nature and gain the upper hand. Its satirical take on beauty and fame offers students a chance to engage with social commentary while enjoying its catchy tunes, sharp wit, and surprisingly poignant insight.
Broadway Inbound is committed to enhancing the educational impact of theatre for young audiences by offering accessible resources. They provide a range of workshops and educational guides that enrich understanding and appreciation of each production, transforming shows into captivating, interactive learning experiences. To support educational visits, Broadway Inbound also offers special group ticket pricing for student groups, with discounts available for as few as eight attendees. For educators seeking assistance, Broadway Inbound’s sales team is readily available to help with booking and additional support.
Inspire the Next Generation of Performers – Introduce students to the magic of Broadway with guidance from Student Travel Pro and hassle-free booking via Broadway Inbound.
