The live theater scene in the United States is incredibly diverse and dynamic. Based on popularity, critical acclaim, and cultural impact, here are 20 highly regarded comedic plays and musicals, some of which were especially popular on Broadway or other major venues in the country:
- The Book of Mormon: This irreverent musical from the creators of “South Park” has won numerous Tony Awards and is a consistent crowd-pleaser.
- Avenue Q: A comedic puppet musical that deals with the issues and anxieties associated with entering adulthood.
- Noises Off: This classic farce showcases the hilarious chaos of behind-the-scenes antics during a theatrical production.
- The Play That Goes Wrong: An amateur theater troupe’s attempts to present a murder mystery go hilariously awry in this popular farce.
- One Man, Two Guvnors: An adaptation of the 18th-century Italian comedy “The Servant of Two Masters” that was a major hit on both sides of the Atlantic.
- The Importance of Being Earnest: This classic Oscar Wilde play is a staple of comedic theater for its wit and satire.
- The 39 Steps: A comedic adaptation of the classic Alfred Hitchcock thriller, with four actors playing dozens of roles.
- Spamalot: A musical comedy adapted from “Monty Python and the Holy Grail”.
- Boeing-Boeing: A farcical comedy about a man juggling relationships with three air hostesses.
- Arsenic and Old Lace: A classic dark comedy about two elderly women who murder their lodgers as an act of charity.
- Little Shop of Horrors: A unique blend of comedy and horror in a rock musical format, about a nerdy florist who raises a plant that feeds on human blood.
- The Producers: This Mel Brooks musical about two producers intentionally making a Broadway flop has been a major success.
- Shear Madness: An interactive murder mystery comedy that’s been running for decades.
- Much Ado About Nothing: This William Shakespeare’s comedy is a classic and often performed on stage.
- The Odd Couple: Neil Simon’s classic comedy about mismatched roommates.
- You Can’t Take It with You: A Pulitzer Prize-winning comedy about a quirky family.
- Harvey: A comedy about a man whose best friend is a large, invisible rabbit.
- Something Rotten!: A musical comedy set in the time of Shakespeare, about two brothers trying to write the world’s first musical.
- Mamma Mia!: This ABBA jukebox musical comedy has been a massive global hit.
- Legally Blonde The Musical: A comedy musical based on the movie “Legally Blonde” about a sorority girl who goes to Harvard Law School.
Please note that the availability and scheduling of these shows can vary widely depending on the venue, licensing, and other factors. Always check with local theater companies or Broadway schedules for current and upcoming performances.