Broadway shows 2025: What’s Running, What’s Hot, and What It Really Costs

When people talk about Broadway shows 2025, live theatrical performances in New York City’s historic theater district, typically musicals or plays with professional casts and high production values. Also known as New York theater, these shows are more than just entertainment—they’re cultural events that draw millions every year. If you’re planning a trip or just curious what’s on stage, you’re not alone. Right now, Broadway shows 2025 are dominated by a few big names, but there’s more beneath the surface than just ticket prices and glitter.

Take Hamilton, a hip-hop infused musical about America’s founding fathers that became a global phenomenon. Also known as the Hamilton effect, it’s still the most popular show in town, with demand so high that premium tickets regularly hit over $2,000. It’s not just a musical—it’s a phenomenon that reshaped how people think about theater. But Hamilton isn’t the only one holding court. The Phantom of the Opera, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s haunting love story with chandeliers and masked villains. Also known as Phantom, it’s the longest-running show in Broadway history, having opened in 1988 and still playing to packed houses decades later. Then there’s Wicked, the untold story of the witches of Oz, with catchy songs and dazzling costumes. Also known as the green witch musical, it’s a favorite for families and first-timers, often outselling even the biggest blockbusters on certain nights. These aren’t just shows—they’re institutions.

What makes a Broadway show last? It’s not just the music or the stars. It’s the story, the timing, and how well it connects with people. Some shows, like The Lion King, a visually stunning adaptation of the Disney film with puppetry and African-inspired rhythms. Also known as the animal musical, it’s been running for over 20 years because it feels like magic to both kids and adults. Others, like the infamous flop The New York Times, a 2019 musical about journalism that closed after just 12 previews. Also known as the Broadway bomb, it lost millions and became a cautionary tale for producers. The difference? One speaks to something timeless. The other tried too hard to be trendy.

So what’s the real story behind Broadway in 2025? It’s not just about who’s selling tickets—it’s about why. Whether you’re saving up for Hamilton, looking for a family-friendly night out with Wicked, or just wondering how Phantom has stayed alive for over 35 years, the answers are in the details. Below, you’ll find real breakdowns of ticket prices, crowd favorites, and the shows that surprised everyone by sticking around. No fluff. Just what’s happening, why it matters, and what you need to know before you buy a ticket.