69 Musicals For High Schools

Welcome to the fascinating world of high school musicals. If you’re looking for ideas for your next (or first) high school musical production, you’re in the right place.

From classics like West Side Story to modern musicals such as Legally Blonde, you will find the perfect musical for your high school production here.

So, without further ado, grab yourself a drink and get ready to discover the best musicals for high schools.

Classic Musicals For High Schools

Choosing a classic musical is like picking a vintage outfit — it’s always in style, it never fails to impress, and it carries a certain charm that the newbies just can’t match.

1. West Side Story

Making its Broadway debut back in 1957, West Side Story is a classic musical that captures the timeless tale of Romeo and Juliet, but with a twist. 

Set in the 1950s, this musical takes us to the streets of New York City, where two rival gangs, the Jets and the Sharks, fight for territory. And in the middle of all the chaos, a love story blossoms between Tony and Maria, members of opposing gangs. 

West Side Story explores themes of love, prejudice, and conflict. It has a large cast with roles for both males and females. It requires strong dancers and singers. And the 1950s set can be creatively adapted for high school stages.

2. Guys and Dolls

Guys and Dolls hit the Broadway scene in 1950. It’s a comedic musical set in the vibrant underbelly of New York City, filled with gamblers, showgirls, and missionaries.

The story follows gambler Sky Masterson as he tries to make Sarah Brown, a Salvation Army worker, fall in love with him. But not because he loves her. He’s trying to win a bet.

This musical is a great option for high schools looking for a classic, crowd-pleasing production. It explores themes of love, repentance, and the human desire to strive for more.

3. Fiddler on the Roof

First seen on Broadway in 1964, Fiddler on the Roof is a heartwarming musical set in a small Jewish village in Russia. It follows the life of Tevye, a poor milkman, as he tries to uphold traditional values in a rapidly changing world. 

This musical has a nice balance of drama, humor, and memorable songs, including “Tradition” and “Matchmaker, Matchmaker.” It requires a medium to large cast with a strong male lead and provides an opportunity to explore historical and cultural themes.

4. The Music Man

The Music Man has been charming audiences for decades. Debuted on Broadway in 1957, it tells the story of Harold Hill, a fast-talking con man who plans to swindle the townspeople of River City, Iowa, by promising to create a boy’s band but skipping town once he collects the money. However. Things go wrong when he falls in love with the town librarian. 

With catchy tunes like “76 Trombones” and a lively, large ensemble cast of characters with a strong male lead, high school students will find this musical fun and energetic to perform.

5. Oklahoma!

One of the earliest musical plays, Oklahoma, made its Broadway debut in 1943. Set in the American West during the turn of the 20th century, it tells the love story of cowboy Curly McLain and farm girl Laurey Williams. Its iconic songs like “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'” and “The Surrey with the Fringe on Top” offer a delightful musical experience. 

Performing this classic musical allows high school students to explore a piece of musical theater history while honing their acting and singing skills.

This musical requires a medium to large cast, with strong roles for both genders. The costumes and sets are indicative of the Oklahoma territory in the 1900s. It’s a fantastic option for schools looking for a classic and robust musical.

6. Grease 

WoW. This is a blast from the past. Must have watched the film at least 30 times. Unless you’re six years old, which is unlikely since you’re reading this article, I’m guessing you’ve seen Grease a gazillion times too. But for those of you who haven’t …

Grease is a musical that hit Broadway in 1972 before the film was created. It is set in a 1950s high school and tells a story of high school romance and teenage life. With themes of friendship, love, and teenage angst, this musical production is very relatable for high school students. It requires a medium-sized cast and offers strong roles for both genders.

7. Bye Bye Birdie

Inspired by the frenzy of Elvis Presley’s induction into the army in 1958, Bye Bye Birdie debuted on Broadway in 1960. This fun and energetic musical revolves around rock and roll superstar Conrad Birdie and the chaos caused when he is drafted and gives one lucky girl from a small Ohio town a farewell kiss on a national television show. 

Bye by Birdie is a great choice for schools with a large cast looking for a light-hearted, high school musical to put on. It gives students a chance to showcase comedic acting skills, singing, and dancing abilities.

8. The Sound of Music

The Sound of Music is a classic that debuted on Broadway in 1959. It is based on the true story of the Von Trapp Family singer, featuring a young woman named Maria who leaves an Austrian convent to become a governess to seven children of a widower named Captain Von Trapp.

It is a heartwarming musical that’s perfect for a large cast with a strong female lead. The show features timeless songs, including “Do-Re-Mi” and “Edelweiss,” and explores themes of love, courage, and resilience.

9. Little Shop of Horrors

Ah. Little Shop of Horrors. Another musical that takes me back to childhood.

First debuting Off-Off-Broadway in 1982, Little Shop of Horrors is a horror comedy that tells the story of a hapless florist, Seymore, who finds a plant that eats humans. With its catchy tunes, dark humor, and unique plot, students will love bringing this show to life.

Little Shop of Horrors has a small to medium-sized cast with strong male and female roles, and the set requires a large, imaginative plant puppet, offering a fun and unique production challenge.

10. The Addams Family

This musical is a great choice for schools looking to put on a humor-filled, unconventional show. The Addams Family premiered on Broadway in 2010, bringing our favorite spooky and quirky family to the stage.

The plot? When Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, falls in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable and “normal” family, things take an unexpected turn. 

This musical requires a medium-sized cast with strong male and female roles. Costumes and sets evoke the quirky, gothic aesthetic of the Addams family home, offering a creative challenge for high school productions.

11. The Wizard of Oz

Here’s another musical that doesn’t require much introduction. You know how it goes, right?

Based on L. Frank Baum’s beloved novel and the iconic 1939 film, this musical transports audiences to the magical Land of Oz, complete with a yellow brick road, a wicked witch, and of course, those ruby red slippers.

The story follows young Dorothy Gale from Kansas as she embarks on a journey to find the Wizard who can help her return home, meeting a host of memorable characters along the way (the lion was my favorite).

With a large cast, iconic roles, and memorable songs like “Over the Rainbow” and “We’re Off to See the Wizard,” this musical is perfect for a high school production that wants to incorporate classic music and a magical set design.

12. Once Upon a Mattress

This musical comedy is a fun and feminist retelling of the Princess and the Pea fairy tale. It’s a great choice for high schools looking to showcase a large group of female performers.

13. Annie

Hitting the Broadway stage in 1977, Annie tells the story of a brave young girl living in a New York City orphanage run by a cruel drunk, Miss Hannigan. Annie’s luck changes when she’s chosen to spend Christmas with a very wealthy man named Oliver Warbucks.

Annie is one of my favorite musicals. I love the scene where she single handly beats up a group of boys to save a dog that she sneaks into the orphanage and names Sandy.

The musical has a large and diverse cast. It features fun and upbeat songs such as “It’s the Hard-Knock Life”. And it explores themes of optimism and the concept of family.

14. Oliver

I’m confident that every man and his dog has seen the musical, Oliver. If that doesn’t include you, here’s a summary …

Premiering on London’s West End in 1960, Oliver is a compelling musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’s classic novel “Oliver Twist.”

The story follows the trials and adventures of Oliver, an orphan in Victorian England, after he dares to ask for more food at the workhouse.

Memorable songs like “Consider Yourself” and “Food, Glorious Food,” as well as its exploration of themes like poverty, social class, and morality, make Oliver a time-honored choice for high school productions.

This musical calls for a large ensemble cast, providing ample opportunities for both male and female performers, particularly boys.

15. Marry Poppins

Here’s another classic musical you are likely already familiar with. But if not …

Based on P.L. Travers’ beloved books, this musical follows the magical nanny Mary Poppins as she transforms the lives of the Banks family. With an array of female roles and a delightful score, it’s a fantastic choice for high schools looking for a musical that’s both fun and heartwarming.

Modern Musicals For High Schools

Modern musicals have a knack for capturing the pulse of the current generation with their contemporary themes, catchy music, and relatable characters. They are a fantastic way to get high school students excited about performing arts.

16. Dear Evan Hansen

Premiering on Broadway in 2016, this musical tells the emotionally charged story of Evan Hansen, a high school student grappling with social anxiety.

Its contemporary pop score, compelling narrative, and exploration of poignant themes such as mental health, loneliness, and the desire to fit in, resonate deeply with many high school students. It requires a small cast, with strong leads, especially in the title role.

Also, it’s a great opportunity for showcasing talent in emotional and nuanced performances. The costuming and set are contemporary and straightforward, making it manageable for most high school drama clubs.

17. Hamilton

With its revolutionary debut in 2015, Hamilton brings the founding fathers to life through hip-hop, R&B, and traditional show tunes.

This innovative and impactful musical challenges performers with its fast-paced rap lyrics and complex harmonies, making it an exciting choice for high schools. Plus, it’s a great way to bring a bit of history to life on stage!

Hamilton demands a large, diverse cast and strong singers who can handle rap and hip-hop. It offers an array of roles for both leads and ensemble. Costuming is historical but can be simplified for school productions.

18. Mean Girls

Adapted from the hit 2004 film, this 2018 Broadway musical presents high school in all its glory and gory detail, complete with cliques, backstabbing, and of course, mean girls.

Its catchy tunes, witty dialogue, and relatable themes of acceptance and friendship make it a popular choice for many high school musical theater groups.

A medium to large cast with strong female leads is needed to put on this show musical. Contemporary costumes and a versatile set are also necessary to recreate the high school environment.

Mean Girls is a great musical for high schools to showcase their female talent.

19. Be More Chill

This 2015 musical became a viral sensation thanks to its relatable story of a high school student who takes a pill to become more popular. Its pop-rock score, dynamic characters, and themes of identity and acceptance create an engaging experience for high school actors.

This production calls for a medium-sized cast and shines with a strong male lead. The costumes and set designs lean toward the contemporary, with a hint of sci-fi flare, offering a unique creative challenge.

20. Newsies

Based on the 1992 film, this Tony Award-winning musical tells the story of the 1899 New York newsboy strike. Its energetic choreography, rousing score, and themes of solidarity and justice make it a challenging yet rewarding choice for high school productions.

This show requires a large cast, with many roles for young men, and is ideal for schools with strong dancers. The costumes and set are period specific but can be simplified for a high school stage.

21. Heathers

This dark comedy musical, based on the 1988 film of the same name, deals with issues of popularity, bullying, and individuality. Its rock score, edgy humor, and the opportunity to portray iconic characters make it a fun and engaging choice for high school actors.

This musical needs a medium-sized cast and is strong on female roles. It requires contemporary costumes and a versatile set. It’s perfect for high schools looking to showcase their female performers and take on darker comedic material.

22. Legally Blonde

Adapted from the 2001 film, Legally Blonde, this musical follows Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. With its pop score, energetic choreography, and empowering message, it’s a fun and uplifting choice for high school productions.

This musical requires a medium to large cast with a strong female lead. The costumes are modern and fun, reflecting the bubbly personality of the protagonist.

23. The Spongebob SquarePants Musical

Based on the beloved animated series, this musical premiered on Broadway in 2017. Its eclectic score, whimsical story, and colorful characters make it a fun, creative, and engaging choice for high school productions.

It calls for a large and diverse cast, offering many opportunities for high schoolers to take on iconic roles. The costuming and set designs are cartoonish and imaginative, providing a creative challenge for the production team.

24. The Lightning Thief

Based on Rick Riordan’s popular book series, this musical brings Greek mythology to the modern world. Its rock score, dynamic characters, and exciting plot offer high school students a fun and adventurous performance opportunity.

This musical requires a small to medium-sized cast with strong lead roles. The costumes and set designs draw inspiration from both modern times and ancient Greek mythology, offering a unique blend.

25. Waitress

Waitress is a touching musical based on the 2007 film. It tells the story of Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker to longs to find a way out of a loveless marriage and her hometown.

Its beautiful score, complex characters, and themes of empowerment and resilience make it a compelling choice for high school productions.

The show calls for a medium-sized cast with a strong female lead. Costumes are modern and straightforward, and the set, while detailed, can be creatively adapted to a high school stage.

26. Matilda

Matilda is a heartwarming musical based on the beloved children’s book by Roald Dahl.

The musical debuted in the West End in 2011 and tells the story of Matilda Wormwood, a young girl with extraordinary intelligence, telekinetic powers, and a love for books.

The story follows Matilda as she overcomes obstacles caused by her unloving parents and cruel school principal, finding solace and friendship in her teacher Miss Honey.

With catchy songs like “When I Grow Up” and “Revolting Children,” this musical is a treat for both performers and audiences. The set and costume requirements are flexible, allowing for creative interpretations.

27. Carrie: The Musical

Based on Stephen King’s bestselling horror novel, Carrie: The Musical debuted on Broadway in 1988. The story revolves around Carrie White, a high school outcast with telekinetic powers, who is tormented by her classmates and her oppressive mother.

Its chilling tale and emotive score make it a standout choice for schools looking to perform something different. The cast size is medium, featuring strong roles for females, particularly the lead role of Carrie.

28. Bring It On: The Musical

Drawing inspiration from its namesake film, this high-energy musical presents a captivating spectacle that immerses audiences in the exhilarating world of high school cheerleading. The story follows Campbell, a cheer captain whose world is turned upside down when she’s redistricted to a school without a cheer squad.

With a diverse and dynamic cast, powerful lead roles for young women, and a score co-written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, this musical is a fun and modern choice that gives students a unique opportunity to show off cheerleading and acrobatic skills.

29. High School Musical

Since its release in 2006, High School Musical has become very popular among young audiences. The story follows Troy Bolton, a basketball player, and Gabriella, as they audition for their high school’s musical, disrupting the social order.

With catchy songs, a large cast, and a story that resonates with high school students, this musical is a great choice.

30. Catch Me If You Can

Catch Me If You Can is a thrilling musical based on the true story of Frank Abagnale Jr., a notorious con artist and master of deception. Set in the 1960s, the show features a score that blends elements of jazz, swing, and musical theater.

The high-energy choreography adds to the excitement, creating a dynamic experience for the audience. The musical requires a versatile cast, with strong leads to portray Frank Abagnale Jr. and the FBI agent, Carl Hanratty.

The ensemble also plays a significant role, providing opportunities for exciting group performances. With its gripping storyline and memorable music, Catch Me If You Can offers a captivating theatrical experience.

31. The Secret Garden

Based on Frances Hodgson Burnett’s novel, The Secret Garden tells the story of a young girl named Mary who’s sent to live with her reclusive uncle and his sickly son in a mysterious manor. Her discovery of a hidden garden leads to healing and growth for everyone involved.

With a mostly female cast and a beautiful score, it’s a great choice for high schools that want to explore themes of loss, recovery, and rebirth.

32. Fun Home

This groundbreaking musical is a moving exploration of identity, family, and memory. Based on Alison Bechdel’s graphic memoir, Fun Home follows Alison at three different stages in her life as she grapples with her sexuality and her complicated relationship with her father.

It’s an excellent choice for high schools with strong female performers, offering them the chance to tackle a deeply poignant and critically acclaimed piece of contemporary theatre.

33. Nine

Making its mark on Broadway in 1982, Nine is based on Federico Fellini’s semi-autobiographical film 8½. Set in early 1960s Venice, it unfolds the midlife crisis of famous film director Guido Contini.

Struggling with his next movie’s script and tangled in his relationships with the many women in his life, Contini drifts into his past to seek answers. Maury Yeston’s exquisite score, including hits like “Be On Your Own,” “My Husband Makes Movies,” and “Unusual Way,” provides a soulful backdrop to this introspective journey.

With its medium-sized cast dominated by strong female characters, Nine poses a challenging yet enriching experience for high school performers exploring the complexities of adulthood. This modern musical provides opportunities for strong female leads and supports, making it a great addition to any high school theater repertoire.

34. Wicked 

This hugely popular musical offers a fresh perspective on the Witches of Oz, focusing on the unlikely friendship between Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, the Good Witch. With its powerful female leads, captivating score, and themes of acceptance and friendship, it’s an excellent choice for high schools with strong female performers.

35. Sister Act

Based on the 1992 film, this musical follows Deloris, a lounge singer who hides in a convent after witnessing a crime, leading to uproarious results and soulful tunes. 

With its energetic music and multitude of female roles, it’s a fantastic choice for high schools looking for a feel-good musical that celebrates the power of sisterhood and music. 

As the name suggests, Sister Act provides a great opportunity for female performers to take the lead, encouraging them to embrace their individuality and talent.

36. Emma: A Pop Musical

This contemporary adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel, Emma, is set in the modern-day halls of Highbury High School, where Emma, a senior, takes matchmaking into her own hands as she navigates friendships, romance, and the school’s social scene.

With a lively score featuring popular pop songs from the last few decades, this musical offers a unique chance for performers to sing tunes they already know and love.

The cast is female-heavy, making it a great choice for schools with many talented young women. The plot, while focused on relationships and romance, also explores themes of self-awareness and personal growth.

Musicals With Large Casts

Large cast musicals are a boon for high school theater groups, offering opportunities for many students to shine on stage. They foster teamwork, camaraderie, and a shared sense of accomplishment that smaller productions may not provide to the same extent.

37. Les Misérables

Debuting in Paris in 1980, Les Misérables is a timeless tale of love, revolution, and redemption set against the backdrop of 19th-century France. The story follows Jean Valjean, an ex-convict seeking a second chance in life while eluding the dogged Inspector Javert.

Its dramatic score and emotionally-charged narrative provide a challenging yet rewarding experience for high school students. The musical requires a large cast, strong leads, and intricate set and costume design.

Plus, songs like “I Dreamed a Dream” and “One Day More” are sure to captivate audiences.

38. Beauty and the Beast

An adaptation of the beloved 1991 Disney film Beauty and the Beast made its Broadway debut in 1994. The story revolves around Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, a prince under a spell who can only be freed by true love. 

The musical offers a variety of roles for high schoolers, with a particular emphasis on strong female leads. Its magical set and costume design can be creatively adapted for high school stages. And. Its timeless tunes like “Be Our Guest” and “Beauty and the Beast” will undoubtedly charm any audience.

39. Hairspray

Released on Broadway in 2002, Hairspray is an uplifting musical set in 1960s Baltimore.

The story centers around Tracy Turnblad, a vivacious teenager who dreams of dancing on the Corny Collins Show and fights against racial segregation. 

The musical offers numerous roles for a diverse cast and features vibrant aesthetics. Its high-energy, upbeat score like “Good Morning Baltimore” and “You Can’t Stop the Beat” provide a fun challenge for all involved.

40. Phantom of the Opera

Making its West End debut in 1986, Phantom of the Opera is a captivating tale of unrequited love set in the Paris Opera House.

Like many of the musicals we have explored already, Phantom of the Opera requires a large cast and features intricate costumes and sets.

Also, the musical requires strong singers and offers a variety of roles, from the mysterious Phantom to the beautiful soprano Christine. With songs like “The Music of the Night” and “All I Ask of You” the audience is sure to be left spellbound.

41. Into the Woods

This inventive, Tony Award-winning musical is a gem from the genius of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine. Bursting onto the scene in 1987, Into the Woods weaves together various fairy tales we all know and love, including Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Rapunzel, but with a unique, thought-provoking twist.

As the characters venture into the woods in pursuit of their wishes, they learn important lessons about the realities of life, desire, and consequence, making this a great choice for a high school production looking to balance entertaining storytelling with deeper thematic exploration.

Into the Woods requires a larger cast. The show’s score provides an opportunity for strong singers, and the complex narrative encourages well-rounded acting skills. Costume and set design can get as creative as you want, bringing the mystical woods and fairy-tale charm to life.

42. Cats

Opening in London’s West End in 1981, Cats is a one-of-a-kind musical that tells the story of the Jellicle cats gathering for their annual ball. 

This dance-heavy musical requires a large cast and offers numerous roles for strong dancers, and its whimsical set and costumes can be creatively adapted for high school stages.

43. Mamma Mia

This wildly popular jukebox musical hit the West End and Broadway stages in 1999. Based on the infectious, feel-good tunes of ABBA, Mamma Mia takes us to a sunny Greek island where Sophie is planning her wedding and wants her father to give her away.

But there’s just one problem. She has three dads.

This musical is best for high school theater groups with a predominantly strong female cast and has roles for all skill levels. Notable roles include Sophie, her mother Donna, and Donna’s two best friends (aka the Dynamo girls).

And be honest, who wouldn’t love to perform classic ABBA hits like “Dancing Queen” and “Take a Chance on Me”?

44. Lion King

This adaptation of the 1994 Disney animated film, The Lion King, made its Broadway debut in 1997. The story follows the young lion prince Simba as he navigates adversity and identity to reclaim his rightful throne. 

The musical requires a large and diverse cast, offering roles from dynamic leads to vibrant ensemble characters. The production design is known for its innovative puppetry and vibrant aesthetics.

45. Shrek The Musical

Shrek, the Broadway adaptation of the 2001 animated film debuted in 2008. As the name suggests, it tells the story of Shrek, an ogre who sets off on a quest to rescue a princess.

The musical has a large ensemble cast with a variety of roles. The production design is colorful and imaginative. And it features fun songs like “I’m a Believer” and “Freak Flag” that will have the audience laughing and clapping along.

46. The Little Mermaid

The Little Mermaid, a musical adaptation of the beloved Disney classic, made a splash on Broadway in 2007. The story follows Ariel, a young mermaid princess who dreams of becoming human after falling in love with a human prince, Eric.

With memorable songs from the animated film like “Under the Sea,” “Part of Your World,” and new ones like “She’s in Love,” this musical is a treasure trove for performers. 

47. The Color Purple

The Color Purple is a moving musical adaptation of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel and the subsequent film directed by Steven Spielberg. First hitting the Broadway stage in 2005, the musical explores the journey of Celie, an African American woman in the South during the early 20th century. It’s a tale of resilience and redemption as Celie overcomes adversity and discovers her own inner strength.

The musical requires a large, diverse cast and offers powerful roles, especially for women.

Musicals With Small Casts

Small cast productions can provide a more intimate performance experience and often allow each cast member a moment in the spotlight. Plus, they’re generally easier to manage and can be more affordable to produce.

48. The Last Five Years

Premiering in Chicago in 2001, this emotionally charged musical tells the story of Jamie and Cathy, a couple whose relationship blooms and then sadly unravels over the course of five years. What makes this musical unique is that Jamie’s story is told in chronological order, while Cathy’s is told in reverse.

 With only two main roles, this musical is perfect for high schools looking for a small cast musical that explores themes of love, ambition, and heartbreak.

Plus, it features beautiful songs like “Still Hurting” and “Goodbye Until Tomorrow.”

49. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

In this high-energy musical that hit Broadway in 2005, six eccentric middle-schoolers compete in — yup, you guessed it — a spelling competition!

This musical provides a funny yet touching look into their lively minds as they navigate the pressures of the competition and the trials of growing up. From shy Olive to overachiever Marcy and hyperactive Leaf, there’s a character everyone can relate to.

Its catchy tunes, clever lyrics, and unique, often improvised, audience participation make it a must-do for high school theater groups. With its small, flexible cast of nine, it’s a perfect fit for musical productions with a small cast.

50. Little Women

Brought to life on Broadway in 2005, this musical adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s novel, Little Women, captures the spirit of four distinct sisters – Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy March. Each sister brings her unique personality, dreams, and challenges to the stage, creating a diverse range of roles for performers.

With timeless themes of family, love, loss, and self-discovery, Little Women offers an opportunity for high school theatre groups to explore a classic story in a fresh, musical light. Little Women requires a cast size of ten, mostly female roles.

51. Next to Normal 

This powerful rock musical made its Broadway debut in 2009, exploring the impact of mental illness on a suburban family. The small cast of six offers challenging and rewarding roles for high school performers. Despite its heavy subject matter, the musical is ultimately a story of love and resilience.

52. Dogfight

This off-Broadway musical premiered in 2012, based on the 1991 film of the same name. Set in 1963, it tells the story of three young marines on the eve of their deployment to Vietnam and an unsuspecting woman who changes their lives.

With a small cast, this musical provides high school performers with an opportunity to explore themes of love, friendship, and personal growth.

53. [Title of Show]

Yes, you read that right! The name of this musical is [Title of Show]. It is a unique and self-referential musical that uses its own title as a part of the story. The name is meant to be a placeholder, as the characters in the musical are creating their own show.

This one-act musical is about writing a musical that premiered off-Broadway in 2006. The self-referential story follows two guys writing a musical about two guys writing a musical.

With a cast of only four, it’s a perfect choice for high school theater groups seeking a light-hearted and meta-theatrical production.

54. I Love You Because

I Love You Because is a  modern musical twist on Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” debuted off-Broadway in 2006. It follows a young New Yorker as he navigates love and relationships. It has a small cast of six, and it is a great choice for high schools looking for a romantic comedy with relatable characters and a catchy score.

55. Ordinary Days

This off-Broadway musical, which premiered in 2009, tells the story of four young New Yorkers whose lives intersect in unexpected ways. With a small cast, this musical is ideal for high school productions, providing opportunities for strong character development and exploration of themes like connection and the beauty of everyday moments.

56. The Fantasticks

The Fantasticks is a delightful romantic musical comedy that has been captivating audiences since its off-Broadway debut in 1960. The simple yet enchanting plot is about two neighboring fathers who trick their children, Luisa and Matt, into falling in love by pretending to feud.

What makes this tale truly endearing is its profound exploration of love, dreams, and the harsh realities that come with experience.

With a small cast of only eight characters, it’s perfect for high schools with a limited number of performers. Its minimal set requirements and timeless score, featuring classic songs like “Try to Remember,” make this musical a versatile choice for any high school theater program.

57. Spring Awakening

This rock musical adaptation of the 1891 German play tackles themes of adolescence, sexuality, and identity. Premiering on Broadway in 2006, it’s a powerful production that resonates with many high school students.

While it does deal with mature themes, it offers a smaller cast the chance to engage with deeply emotional material and showcase their acting abilities.

58. You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown

You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown brings Charles M. Schulz’s beloved Peanuts comic strip to life on the stage. Featuring all your favorite characters, including Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and Lucy, the musical explores the joys and struggles of childhood through a series of vignettes. It has a small cast, a simple set, and timeless themes.

Jukebox Musicals For High School

Pop and jukebox musicals take popular songs, often from a specific artist or era, and weave them into an engaging storyline. For high school students, these shows are a chance to sing the songs they already know and love, and for audiences, it’s an opportunity to enjoy a musical filled with familiar tunes. A win-win for everyone.

59. Jersey Boys

Bursting onto Broadway in 2005, Jersey Boys tells the rags-to-riches story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. Set in the vibrant 1960s, the musical features a catalogue of hits such as “Big Girls Don’t Cry” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.” 

The show requires a talented male quartet and a strong ensemble. With its real-life narrative and irresistible music, Jersey Boys provides an engaging history lesson and a rocking good time for both performers and the audience.

60. Rock of Ages

Rock of Ages is a love letter to the big-haired, guitar-shredding glam rock of the 1980s.  Featuring hits from bands like Journey, Bon Jovi, and Twisted Sister, the show tells the story of a small-town girl meeting a big-city rocker in L.A.’s most famous rock club. 

With a large cast, this high-energy musical gives students a chance to head-bang to some classic 80s rock tunes while exploring themes of dreams, love, and the power of music.

61. We Will Rock You

The music of Queen takes center stage in We Will Rock You, a futuristic story set in a world where rock music is banned. This musical boasts powerful vocal roles and a large ensemble. With its iconic songs like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “We Are the Champions,” it’s an excellent choice for high schools looking to rock out and rebel against conformity.

62. Movin Out

Movin’ Out debuted on Broadway in 2002, showcasing the timeless music of Billy Joel. Conceptualized by legendary choreographer Twyla Tharp, this rock ballet tells the story of five lifelong friends over two turbulent decades. It follows their journey from the optimistic 1960s to the despair and disillusionment of the Vietnam War.

With high-energy dance numbers and Joel’s chart-topping hits like “We Didn’t Start the Fire” and “Uptown Girl,” Movin’ Out presents a unique challenge for high school performers interested in combining acting, singing, and dance.

This production requires a smaller cast and strong dancers, making it a perfect choice for schools with a robust dance program.

63. American Idiot

American Idiot is based on Green Day’s Grammy Award-winning multi-platinum album. It follows three lifelong friends forced to choose between their dreams and the safety of suburbia. Packed with songs like “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” and “Wake Me Up When September Ends,” American Idiot presents a challenging, dynamic option for high school productions with a smaller cast but requires strong singers and performers.

64. School of Rock

Adapted from the hit film, School of Rock is about a wannabe rock star turned substitute teacher who turns his class into a rock band. This is a great choice for high schools with a larger cast, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with energetic songs anda feel-good message.

65. The Cher Show

The glitz and glamour of Cher’s life and career come alive in The Cher Show. It’s a jukebox musical that showcases her iconic hits while exploring her journey in the music industry. With standout female roles, this empowering musical is perfect for high schools looking for a story of resilience and self-discovery, wrapped in a catalogue of beloved songs.

66. Beautiful: The Carole King Musical

Making its Broadway debut in 2014, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical tells the inspiring true story of Carole King’s rise to stardom from her early days as a Brooklyn teenager.

Packed with a trove of pop music classics like “You’ve Got a Friend” and “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman”, this musical offers powerful female roles and a heartwarming storyline. It’s an excellent choice for schools with strong female performers and musicians.

67. Sunny Afternoon

This Olivier Award-winning musical chronicles the rise of the British rock band, The Kinks, against the backdrop of a changing Britain. With popular hits like “You Really Got Me” and “Waterloo Sunset”, Sunny Afternoon offers a rich tapestry of 60s rock music. It’s an excellent choice for high schools looking to explore the intersection of music and history.

68. Footloose

Footloose, making its Broadway debut in 1998, brings to the stage the iconic story of Ren McCormack, a high-energy teenager from Chicago who moves to a small rural town where dancing is banned.

Facing cultural clashes and rigid social norms, Ren sparks a revolution among the youth as he fights for the right to dance and to express themselves freely.

The high-energy, toe-tapping score includes unforgettable hits like “Let’s Hear It for the Boy,” “Holding Out for a Hero,” and, of course, the irresistible title track “Footloose.”

With its exploration of themes like rebellion, adaptation, and youth expression, “Footloose” remains a relevant and exciting option for high school productions. This musical requires a medium-sized cast with strong dancers and actors who can bring the energetic characters to life. The costumes and set can be as simple or elaborate as resources allow, offering flexibility for different school theater budgets.

69. Camp Rock: The Musical

This musical brings to life the story of a group of young musicians attending a summer music camp. It is a musical packed with pop-rock tunes, youthful energy, and an underdog story that will resonate with many high school students.

It has a flexible cast size and strong roles for both male and female performers. Camp Rock is a great choice for high schools looking to put on a contemporary, upbeat show.