5 Filmed Productions of Broadway Musicals to Watch That Aren’t “Hamilton”
Written by: CK Anderson
September 25th, 2020
Already watched “Hamilton” a million times and looking for something else to scratch that Broadway itch? Here are five other filmed productions of Broadway musicals that are worth checking out.
Into the Woods
The original Broadway cast reunited for this filmed production of Sondheim’s classic, which originally aired on PBS as the season 10 premiere episode for their show American Playhouse. This excellent production demonstrates exactly why Sondheim’s reimagined fairy tale has endured and features powerhouse performances from Joanna Gleason, Robert Westernberg, and of course, Bernadette Peters as The Witch. Give us this over the 2014 film adaptation any day.
Where to Watch: YouTube
Passing Strange
One of the lesser-known entries on this list, Passing Strange, tells the story of a young African-American man, simply called The Youth (Shrek’s Daniel Breaker), and his self-discovery journey Europe. Beautifully filmed by visionary director Spike Lee and featuring a vibrant rock score from singer-songwriter Stew, this underrated gem is a worthy addition to any Broadway fan’s watchlist.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime
Newsies: The Broadway Musical
The other filmed stage musical in Disney Plus’ library, this filmed production saw original Broadway leads Jeremy Jordan, Kara Lindsay, Ben Fankhauser and Andrew Keenan-Bolger reuniting along with the national tour cast at Los Angeles’ Pantages Theatre. This filmed performance showcases all of the show-stopping vocals and thrilling choreography that made Newsies a blockbuster smash, and will turn even the most cynical of viewers into “fansies”.
Where to Watch: Disney+
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
This Emmy-winning recording of Sondheim’s macabre operetta spotlights brilliant performances from Angela Lansbury and George Hearn as the talkative Mrs. Lovett and vengeful Todd, respectfully. Featuring one of Sondheim’s most complex and acclaimed scores and masterful direction from the late Hal Prince, this definitive version of Sweeney Todd is perfect for those looking for a spooky musical diversion.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime
She Loves Me
Starring Broadway favorites Laura Benanti, Jane Krakowski, and Gavin Creel alongside TV/Film star Zachary Levi, this 2016 revival from Roundabout Theatre Company is notable for being the first Broadway musical to be live-streamed during a performance. With winning performances from the entire cast, especially Benanti and Levi, and a critically acclaimed take on a classic love story, She Loves Me is a must-watch for Broadway fans young and old.
Where to Watch: BroadwayHD
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