Stream your favourite musicals from your arm chair
Whether you live in New York City or halfway across the globe, finding plays and musicals to stream online can feel like an overwhelming task. Fortunately, streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, BroadwayHD, Disney+, HBO Max, and Apple TV+ offer a treasure trove of theatrical resources. From live recordings of Broadway hits to cinematic adaptations, here’s your comprehensive guide to what’s currently available for streaming.
Disney+
Mary Poppins (1964): Starring Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke, this classic film is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2024. A special documentary honoring this milestone is also available on Disney+, but it’s worth revisiting the original, timeless movie about the magical nanny.
The Sound of Music (1965): Follow up Mary Poppins with this Academy Award-winning musical featuring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer. Enjoy cherished Rodgers & Hammerstein tunes like “My Favorite Things” and “Do-Re-Mi.”
West Side Story (2021): Steven Spielberg’s Academy Award-winning adaptation of the classic tale of rivalries and love in 1957 New York is a must-watch. Featuring Rachel Zegler in her breakout role, it’s a fresh take on a timeless story.
Hamilton (2020): Experience Lin-Manuel Miranda’s groundbreaking musical featuring the original Broadway cast. Filmed at the Richard Rodgers Theatre, Hamilton tells the story of America’s Founding Father Alexander Hamilton through a dynamic blend of hip-hop, jazz, and Broadway.
Into the Woods (2014): This film adaptation of Stephen Sondheim’s musical intertwines fairy tales with an original narrative about a baker, his wife, and a witch’s curse.
Trevor: The Musical (2022): This heartfelt Off-Broadway musical follows a young teen’s journey of self-discovery and is inspired by the Oscar-winning short film that led to the creation of The Trevor Project.
Newsies (2017): Filmed live at the Pantages Theatre, this recording captures the energy of the Tony-winning musical about young newsboys taking a stand against publishing giants.
Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration (2022): Starring H.E.R., Josh Groban, and Joshua Henry, this special presentation celebrates the animated film’s 30th anniversary with performances directed by Jon M. Chu.
The Greatest Showman (2017): Hugh Jackman stars in this film about P.T. Barnum’s life, featuring a rousing soundtrack by Pasek and Paul.
Howard (2020): This documentary delves into the life of Howard Ashman, lyricist behind Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid.
Netflix
tick, tick…BOOM! (2021): Lin-Manuel Miranda’s directorial debut is a heartfelt adaptation of Jonathan Larson’s autobiographical musical about the pressures of artistic ambition.
Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical (2022): This adaptation of the Tony-winning musical brings Tim Minchin’s songs to life, featuring a breakout performance by Alisha Weir as Matilda.
Diana The Musical (2021): This Broadway production explores the life of Princess Diana and is a must-watch for royal fans and theater enthusiasts alike.
Springsteen on Broadway (2018): Bruce Springsteen’s intimate one-man show features acoustic performances of his greatest hits alongside personal stories.
Oh, Hello on Broadway (2017): Nick Kroll and John Mulaney’s comedic Broadway special is filled with irreverent humor and surprise guests.
Mean Girls (2024): Adapted from the Broadway musical, this film features Renee Rapp reprising her iconic role as Regina George.
13: The Musical (2022): A coming-of-age story adapted from Jason Robert Brown’s Broadway musical.
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (2020): Viola Davis and Chadwick Boseman shine in this adaptation of August Wilson’s play.
Amazon Prime
Funny Girl (1968): Barbra Streisand shines in this classic musical about the life of Fanny Brice. With iconic songs like “People” and “Don’t Rain on My Parade,” it’s a must-watch.
Everybody’s Talking About Jamie (2021): This inspiring story of a teenager pursuing his dream to become a drag queen is a joyous celebration of individuality.
Carousel (2013): This live-from-Lincoln Center concert recording stars Broadway icons Kelli O’Hara and Jessie Mueller.
BroadwayHD
Miss Saigon (2016): Eva Noblezada stars in this stunning 25th Anniversary Gala Performance of the epic musical.
She Loves Me (2016): The first Broadway musical live-streamed online, this charming story of anonymous pen pals features Laura Benanti and Zachary Levi.
Shrek the Musical (2013): The beloved tale of an ogre with a heart of gold is perfect for family viewing.
Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn (2017): Celebrate the holidays with this festive musical featuring Corbin Bleu.
Cats (1998): This specially staged version of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s classic captures the magic of the original.
Apple TV+
Come From Away (2021): This live Broadway recording tells the moving story of 38 planes grounded in a small Canadian town after 9/11.
Schmigadoon! (2021): A parody of Golden Age musicals, this show follows a couple trapped in a magical, song-filled town until they discover true love.
HBO Max
Fosse/Verdon (2019): This Emmy-winning miniseries delves into the lives of Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon, theater legends whose collaboration changed Broadway forever.
Angels in America (2003): Mike Nichols’ Emmy-winning adaptation of Tony Kushner’s play about the AIDS crisis is essential viewing for any theater lover.
David Byrne’s American Utopia (2020): Spike Lee directs this filmed version of David Byrne’s acclaimed Broadway show.
Spring Awakening: Those You’ve Known (2022): A documentary chronicling the one-night reunion concert of the original cast.
Whether you’re a seasoned theatre aficionado or just dipping your toes into the world of musicals and plays, these streaming options ensure you can enjoy the magic of the stage from the comfort of your home.
