Best Musicals for First-Time Theatre-Goers
Getting into theatre can feel a bit overwhelming. There’s a lot out there – some of it brilliant, some of it… less so. If your first show doesn’t land, it’s easy to think maybe theatre just isn’t your thing. The first musical I saw in the theatre was Annie. I was also in the production, but as a child actor, I was only able to perform in half of the performances, so I was able to see the show on one of my nights off. It was a great intro to musical theatre for kids.
The truth is, the right musical can make all the difference. It doesn’t need to be heavy or complicated. It just needs to pull you in – with a story you can follow, music that sticks, and a few moments that feel truly special. Whilst there are a lot of amazing musicals out there, some are definitely made for the seasoned musical theatre fans. Others are certainly better musicals for first-time theatre-goers.
If you’re new to musicals, or you’re bringing someone along for their first time, here’s a straightforward guide to shows that are perfect for beginners. No snobbery, no gatekeeping – just good, solid choices.
What Makes a Good “First” Musical?
Probably the most important thing is that it’s easy to connect with. You don’t want your first theatre trip to feel like homework.
Here’s what helps:
- Familiar stories. Things you already know a bit about – fairytales, famous books, and historical figures. It makes it easier to settle in.
- Catchy music. Songs that get stuck in your head for the right reasons. Bonus points if you’ve already heard a few of them without realising.
- Clear emotions. Musicals are bigger than life – you want a story that’s easy to feel your way through, even if you miss a few lyrics.
- Strong visuals and energy. Big sets, big numbers, bright costumes. Sometimes it’s the spectacle that pulls you in first.
Basically, you want a show that feels welcoming. Something that says, “Come in. This is for you.” You want something easy to watch, enjoyable, and attention grabbing.
Best Musicals for First-Time Theatre-Goers
1. The Lion King
If you want a sure thing, The Lion King is about as safe a bet as you’ll get. The story’s familiar – if you’ve seen the Disney film, you already know what’s coming – but the way it’s done on stage feels bigger and more powerful.
The costumes and puppetry are on another level. It’s one of those shows where you’ll probably spend the first ten minutes just staring at everything, trying to take it all in. The music’s familiar too, with songs like Circle of Life and Hakuna Matata that you can’t really help but hum along to.
It’s the kind of musical that makes you feel like you’re part of something. Especially good if you’re taking kids, or if you just want something that feels genuinely special without being cheesy.
2. Wicked
Wicked is technically a prequel to The Wizard of Oz, but you don’t need to know the original story inside out to get it. It’s about friendship, misunderstanding, and how people aren’t always what they seem – big, relatable stuff, wrapped up in a bright green bow.
The songs are massive. Defying Gravity is the one everybody knows, but honestly, most of the soundtrack is brilliant. It’s also visually spectacular – big sets, lots of colour, plenty going on without feeling messy.
If you like the idea of a show that’s a bit more emotional but still fun, Wicked is a solid pick. Probably better if you’re up for a bit of drama (in the good way).
3. Les Misérables
Les Misérables is one of those shows people either love straight away or take a bit longer to warm up to. It’s big, emotional, and pretty heavy – there’s a lot of poverty, injustice, and tragic death. But if you’re someone who likes getting fully pulled into a story, it’s hard to beat.
The music’s powerful and constant – it’s what’s called a “sung-through” musical, meaning there’s barely any spoken dialogue. Songs like I Dreamed a Dream and On My Own are famous for a reason. They hit hard.
Probably not the best first pick if you’re looking for a light, easy night out. But if you want your first musical to actually move you, to make you feel like you’ve just lived through something, Les Mis could be perfect.
Confession time – I personally do not enjoy Les Mis. But I couldn’t not include it as pretty much everyone I know cites it as one of their top ten. I guess I’m in the minority!
4. Mamma Mia!
On the total opposite end of the spectrum, there’s Mamma Mia!. It’s pure fun. A simple, silly story built around ABBA songs – and honestly, it doesn’t need to be anything deeper than that.
You’ll probably know more of the music than you think. Dancing Queen, Super Trouper, Take a Chance on Me – they’re part of the background noise of life at this point. The plot’s basically just an excuse to sing them all, but it doesn’t matter. It’s upbeat, easy to follow, and by the end, you’ll almost definitely be clapping along.
If you’re a bit nervous about whether you’ll enjoy musical theatre, Mamma Mia! is a great starting point. It doesn’t take itself too seriously – and neither should you. Jukebox musicals like Mamma Mia are often cited as good entry-level musicals. If you don’t believe me, take a look at Cousin Allan watching & Juliet!
5. Hamilton
Hamilton is one of those musicals that changed everything. It’s the story of Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s founding fathers, but it’s told through hip hop, R&B, and musical theatre all mashed together. If that sounds weird, it kind of is – but it works.
The energy is massive. The pace is quick. And the lyrics are smart – sometimes too smart to catch on the first listen. If you’re brand new to theatre, it might help to listen to the soundtrack beforehand, just to get your bearings. But even if you don’t, the performances and sheer momentum carry you through.
It’s a good choice if you want something that feels modern and fresh, or if you like the idea of a show that’s a bit clever without being pretentious.
6. Hairspray
If you want something that’s full of life, Hairspray is hard to beat. It’s set in 1960s Baltimore and follows a teenager, Tracy Turnblad, who just wants to dance on TV – and ends up challenging segregation along the way.
The music’s catchy, the dancing’s brilliant, and the whole show has this huge, infectious sense of joy. There are big messages underneath about equality and acceptance, but it’s never heavy-handed. It’s just a genuinely feel-good show that still has something real to say.
If you’re looking for a first musical that leaves you grinning – and maybe thinking a little bit too – Hairspray is a great shout.
Honourable Mentions
Not every brilliant show made the main list, but these are worth a look too:
- Matilda the Musical – If you grew up on Roald Dahl, this one hits all the right notes. Smart, funny, and a bit mischievous.
- Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat – Short, colourful, and packed with songs that are surprisingly catchy. Good if you want something light and low-pressure.
- Frozen – Especially great if you’ve got younger kids – or if you just secretly love Let It Go.
- Six – Fast, punchy, and all about the six wives of Henry VIII reimagined as a girl group. If you want something short and full of energy, this is it.
Tips for First-Time Theatre-Goers
Probably the biggest thing is to keep it simple. You don’t need to do anything special to enjoy a show. But if you want a few pointers:
- Pick a matinee if you can. Afternoon shows are a bit more relaxed, and you won’t be worrying about getting home late.
- Read a little about the story beforehand. Not too much – just enough to get the basics. It helps you relax into it.
- Choose seats where you can see properly. Sometimes, a few rows further back gives you a better overall view than being right at the front.
- Wear what you’re comfortable in. Some people dress up, some don’t. There’s no dress code unless the theatre says otherwise.
- Give yourself permission not to love every second. Even in brilliant shows, not every scene will land. That’s normal.
Theatre’s meant to be experienced, not analysed. If you leave feeling like you’ve had a good time – even if it wasn’t perfect – that’s a win.
Final Thoughts
Your first musical doesn’t have to be life-changing. It just has to be good enough to make you want to come back for more.
Sometimes it’s the story that pulls you in. Sometimes it’s the music. Sometimes it’s just the feeling of being part of a crowd, watching something come alive right in front of you. Whatever it is, that spark is what matters.
Theatre’s not about getting everything right. It’s about the experience – the big moments, the little ones, and everything in between. Start with a show that feels welcoming. Let yourself enjoy it. And if it’s not perfect? There’s always another show waiting.
