Why I love going to musicals

For me, going to a musical isn't just about watching a story unfold. It's about the whole experience. Getting dressed up, heading into the city, grabbing a coffee or dinner beforehand, finding your seat and seeing the curtain rise — it all becomes part of the memory. And there’s something about hearing a song performed live that you’ve listened to hundreds of times that just hits differently. Sometimes you leave the theatre wanting to immediately listen to the soundtrack again. Other times you leave with a new favourite song, a new story to think about or simply a really good memory.

A little bit of music, a little bit of magic

There’s something special about going to the theatre to see a musical. From the moment the lights go down and the orchestra starts playing, you’re transported into another world — even if it’s only for a few hours. Whether you’re a lifelong musical lover or someone who has never been to a theatre production before, there’s a musical for everyone. Some will have you laughing, some will have you crying, and others will have you singing the soundtrack for days afterwards!

Here are some of the musicals I think are worth adding to your list.

Musicals on my must - see list

🎶 Wicked

Wicked tells the story of Elphaba and Glinda and the unlikely friendship that develops between them. With incredible songs, spectacular costumes and a story that makes you look at the classic Wizard of Oz in a completely different way, it’s easy to see why this musical has become a favourite around the world.

Why see it: The music, the costumes, the staging and, of course, Defying Gravity.

Perfect for: Fans of fantasy, big theatrical productions and unforgettable songs.

🎤 Jersey Boys

The story:
Jersey Boys tells the incredible story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons — from their beginnings in New Jersey to becoming one of the biggest musical groups of their time.

Packed with hit songs including Sherry, Big Girls Don't Cry, Walk Like a Man and Can't Take My Eyes Off You, this musical combines fantastic music with a fascinating story about friendship, success, family and the challenges that came with fame.

Why see it: The soundtrack is full of classics, and hearing those songs performed live is an absolute treat.

Perfect for: Fans of classic pop, incredible harmonies and a good behind-the-scenes story.

💃 Mamma Mia!

The story:
Set on a beautiful Greek island, Mamma Mia! follows Sophie as she tries to discover the identity of her father before her wedding. The entire story is set to the music of ABBA! Expect plenty of dancing, laughs, romance and songs that you will almost certainly know every word to.

Why see it: ABBA + comedy + dancing = a pretty good night out!

Perfect for: ABBA fans and anyone looking for a fun night at the theatre.

🎻 Fiddler on the Roof

The story:
Set in a small Jewish village in Imperial Russia, Fiddler on the Roof follows Tevye, a milkman trying to balance tradition, family and a changing world. With memorable songs such as Tradition, If I Were a Rich Man and Sunrise, Sunset, the musical is both funny and deeply moving. At its heart, it's a story about family, love, tradition and what happens when the world around you begins to change.

Why see it: It has a beautiful story, memorable music and plenty of heart.

Perfect for: Anyone who enjoys classic musicals with strong characters, meaningful stories and a little bit of humour.

🌈 Priscilla Queen of the Desert

The story:
Based on the Australian cult classic film, Priscilla Queen of the Desert follows two drag queens and a transgender woman who travel across the Australian outback in a fabulous pink bus. Along the way, they encounter colourful characters, unexpected challenges and plenty of opportunities to break into a classic dance-floor hit. With outrageous costumes, huge wigs and a soundtrack packed with iconic songs, Priscilla is anything but a quiet night at the theatre!

Why see it: The costumes, the music, the humour and the sheer fabulousness of it all.

Perfect for: Anyone who loves a big party atmosphere, classic hits and a musical that doesn't take itself too seriously.

My Musical Night Out Tips

🎟️ Book early
Popular productions can sell quickly, particularly during their opening seasons.

💺 Think about your seats
You don't necessarily need the most expensive seats to have a great experience. Sometimes a slightly cheaper seat can still give you an excellent view.

🍽️ Make a night of it
Why not grab dinner or a drink before the show? A theatre night is always more fun when you turn it into an occasion.

🎵 Listen to the soundtrack first
This is completely optional, but listening to a few songs beforehand can make the experience even more exciting.

📵 Put the phone away
Once the curtain goes up, forget about your phone and enjoy the show!

My Favourite: Fiddler on the Roof

If I had to choose my favourite musical I’ve seen, it would have to be Fiddler on the Roof. There’s just something about this musical that completely draws you in. It’s lively, entertaining and full of energy, with music that is so contagious you’ll find yourself humming the songs long after the curtain comes down. But what really makes Fiddler on the Roof stand out for me is the storyline. It’s funny, heartwarming and emotional all at once, with a beautiful story about family, love, tradition and change. I loved how the characters and story came together, and there were plenty of moments that had me smiling, laughing and completely invested in what was happening on stage. If you’re looking for a musical that has fantastic music, plenty of energy and a storyline that will stay with you, Fiddler on the Roof is definitely one I'd recommend adding to your list.

🎭 The Everyday Edit verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Lively: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Music: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Would I see it again? Absolutely!