7 Theatrical Documentaries That Totally Inspire

Written by Tatiana Rodriguez

April 17, 2017

We’ve seen the performances, but what about behind the scenes? If you’re interested in what makes a musical, or a performance great, here are 7 documentaries that take the experience of being an artist and put it into perspective!

1. Side by Side by Sondheim


A musical revue, which includes songs from the acclaimed Broadway/film composer Stephen Sondheim. Classic in style, this documentary-type film reviews several different aspects of Sondheim’s work, including his lyrics, his writing style, and each production — as well as how his life affected what he wrote for the stage.

2. Shoot Me, the Elaine Stritch Documentary


This brutally honest documentary stars the one and only Elaine Stritch, a beloved Broadway actress who spent over half of her life, working on the stage and screen. Watching this documentary is sure to give you insight on the different aspects of Broadway fame and on humanity as a whole.

3. Fame High


Fame High tells the story of several teenagers attending the acclaimed Los Angeles County High School for the Arts. Filmed over the course of a school year, audiences get to see the dedication and hard work put forth by young performers as they develop their artistic skills and talents while navigating the world of high school.

4. Broadway Idiot


Bold, loud, and ready to rock — this unique musical documentary shows behind the scene footage of how Green Day’s classic rock album, American Idiot, was turned into a one of a kind Broadway sensation. Containing interviews with not only Billy Joe himself, but with the entire band and the musical cast, who later brought his music to the Broadway stage.

5. Most Valuable Players


In a world where theatrical artistry often goes unrecognized, Most Valuable Players tells the story of several different high school theater groups as they strive to bring students together in various musical productions. Honoring and crediting their dedication and skill, this documentary focuses on the “Freddy Awards”, a Pennsylvanian town’s annual award show, aiming to recognize student involvement in the performance arts.

6. Every Little Step


A classic theatrical documentary following the lives of several different dancers as they audition for the Broadway revival of A Chorus Line, an honest portrayal of what it’s like to be a Broadway actor/auditionee. The documentary, filmed in the early 2000s, details the history of the beloved musical and the origins of its creation.

7. Shakespeare High


A rare and important film that documents the 90th annual Drama Teachers Association of Southern California Shakespeare Festival. Connecting the importance of performance and its relationship to self-esteem, education, and helping students find their voice. A prime example of theatre at its very core, this documentary shows how textual conjecture, discussion, and creativity hold value in the classroom and on the stage.



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Tatiana Rodriguez is a student and a writer, currently studying at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where she is working to obtain her Bachelor’s Degree in Theater, as well as a certificate in Multicultural Theater Practice. She is a stage manager, a playwright, and an aspiring director.