21 Famous Works of Literature That Inspired Broadway Musicals (E25)

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21 Famous Works of Literature That Inspired Broadway Musicals

Broadway has long been a platform where stories from various mediums are transformed into spectacular theatrical performances. Among these, literature has been a rich source of inspiration, providing the narrative foundation for many beloved musicals. Here are some famous works of literature that have made their mark on Broadway:

1. Cats

Literary Work: Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats by T.S. Eliot (1939)
Author: T.S. Eliot
Synopsis of the Musical: “Cats” is one of Broadway’s longest-running shows, thanks to Andrew Lloyd Webber’s adaptation of Eliot’s whimsical collection of poems. The musical brings to life the mysterious, mischievous, and magical world of the Jellicle Cats. It centers around a tribe of cats called the Jellicles who come together for the Jellicle Ball where one cat is chosen to ascend to the Heaviside Layer and be reborn. Memorable songs like “Memory” have become staples of musical theater.

Broadway Run: 1982 – 2000; Revival: 2016 – 2017

2. Les Misérables

Literary Work: Les Misérables (1862)
Author: Victor Hugo
Synopsis of the Musical: This epic musical adapts Hugo’s monumental novel set in 19th-century France, focusing on themes of justice, revolution, and redemption. The plot follows several characters, particularly Jean Valjean, an ex-convict seeking redemption, and Inspector Javert, who is determined to bring him to justice. Interwoven with their story are the struggles of various other characters during the period of the June Rebellion. Songs like “I Dreamed a Dream,” “One Day More,” and “Do You Hear the People Sing?” are iconic.

Broadway Run: 1987 – 2003; Revival: 2006 – 2008; Revival: 2014 – 2016

3. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

Literary Work: Chitty-Chitty-Bang-Bang: The Magical Car (1964)
Author: Ian Fleming
Synopsis of the Musical: This family-friendly musical is based on Fleming’s children’s book and the subsequent film. It tells the story of the eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts, his children, and Truly Scrumptious as they embark on a fantastical adventure in their magical flying car, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. The musical is filled with imaginative escapades, whimsical villains, and delightful songs like “Hushabye Mountain” and, of course, “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.”

Broadway Run: 2005

4. Mary Poppins

Literary Work: Mary Poppins (1934)
Author: P.L. Travers
Synopsis of the Musical: The musical adaptation of Travers’ beloved children’s book, also influenced by the iconic Disney film, brings the magical nanny Mary Poppins to the stage. The story follows the Banks family in London, who are transformed by Mary’s enchanting presence. With unforgettable songs like “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” “A Spoonful of Sugar,” and “Chim Chim Cher-ee,” the musical captures the charm and wonder of the original stories.

Broadway Run: 2006 – 2013

5. Jekyll and Hyde

Literary Work: Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde (1886)
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson
Synopsis of the Musical: This dark and thrilling musical is based on Stevenson’s classic novella about the duality of human nature. Dr. Henry Jekyll, a respected scientist, creates a potion that transforms him into the evil Mr. Hyde. The musical explores themes of identity, morality, and the struggle between good and evil, featuring powerful songs like “This Is the Moment” and “Someone Like You.”

Broadway Run: 1997 – 2001; Revival: 2013

6. The Secret Garden

Literary Work: The Secret Garden (1911)
Author: Frances Hodgson Burnett
Synopsis of the Musical: The musical adaptation of Burnett’s enchanting novel tells the story of Mary Lennox, a young orphan sent to live with her reclusive uncle in Yorkshire. As she discovers the hidden, neglected garden, she brings new life to it and to her uncle’s household. The musical beautifully captures the themes of healing and rejuvenation with songs like “Lily’s Eyes” and “The Girl I Mean to Be.”

Broadway Run: 1991 – 1993

7. My Fair Lady

Literary Work: Pygmalion (1913)
Author: George Bernard Shaw
Synopsis of the Musical: “My Fair Lady,” adapted from Shaw’s play “Pygmalion,” tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl who undergoes a transformation under the tutelage of Professor Henry Higgins. Set in Edwardian London, the musical explores themes of class and identity, featuring beloved songs like “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “The Rain in Spain,” and “On the Street Where You Live.”

Broadway Run: 1956 – 1962; Revival: 1976 – 1977; Revival: 1981; Revival: 1993 – 1994; Revival: 2018 – 2019

8. Phantom of the Opera

Literary Work: Le Fantôme de l’Opéra (1909)
Author: Gaston Leroux
Synopsis of the Musical: Andrew Lloyd Webber’s adaptation of Leroux’s gothic novel has become one of the most successful musicals of all time. The story revolves around the mysterious, disfigured Phantom who haunts the Paris Opera House and falls in love with the beautiful soprano Christine Daaé. With hauntingly beautiful music, including “The Music of the Night” and “All I Ask of You,” the musical delves into themes of love, obsession, and redemption.

Broadway Run: 1988 – 2023

9. West Side Story

Literary Work: Romeo and Juliet (1597)
Author: William Shakespeare
Synopsis of the Musical: “West Side Story” reimagines Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy in the streets of 1950s New York City. The musical portrays the rivalry between two teenage street gangs, the Jets and the Sharks, and the doomed love story between Tony and Maria. Leonard Bernstein’s music and Stephen Sondheim’s lyrics bring the story to life with songs like “Tonight,” “America,” and “Somewhere.”

Broadway Run: 1957 – 1959; Revival: 1960; Revival: 1980; Revival: 2009 – 2011; Revival: 2019 – 2020

10. “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” and “Jesus Christ Superstar”

Literary Work: The Bible
Synopsis of the Musical: Various stories from the Bible have inspired Broadway musicals, most notably “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” and “Jesus Christ Superstar,” both by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” tells the story of Joseph from the Book of Genesis, focusing on his journey from slavery to becoming the Pharaoh’s advisor. “Jesus Christ Superstar” presents a rock opera depiction of the final days of Jesus Christ, exploring themes of betrayal, sacrifice, and redemption with a contemporary musical score.

Broadway Run of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: 1982 – 1983; Revival: 1993 – 1994

Broadway Run of Jesus Christ Superstar: 1971 – 1973; Revival: 1977; Revival: 2000; Revival: 2012

11. Wicked

Literary Work: Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West (1995)
Author: Gregory Maguire
Synopsis of the Musical: “Wicked,” with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, serves as a prequel to L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, reimagined by Maguire. The musical delves into the lives of Elphaba, the future Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, the Good Witch, exploring their unlikely friendship and the events leading up to Dorothy’s arrival in Oz. With songs like “Defying Gravity” and “Popular,” it examines themes of identity, power, and the nature of good and evil.

Broadway Run: 2003 – Present

12. Oliver!

Literary Work: Oliver Twist (1838)
Author: Charles Dickens
Synopsis of the Musical: This musical adaptation of Dickens’ classic novel follows the adventures of young orphan Oliver Twist as he navigates the underworld of Victorian London. From the workhouse to the streets, Oliver encounters a colorful cast of characters, including the Artful Dodger, Fagin, and Nancy. The musical is known for its rousing numbers such as “Consider Yourself,” “Food, Glorious Food,” and “As Long As He Needs Me.”

Broadway Run: 1963 – 1964; Revival: 1984 – 1985

13. The King and I

Literary Work: Anna and the King of Siam (1944)
Author: Margaret Landon
Synopsis of the Musical: This Rodgers and Hammerstein classic is based on Landon’s novel, which in turn was inspired by the memoirs of Anna Leonowens. The musical follows the story of Anna, a British schoolteacher, who travels to Siam (modern-day Thailand) to tutor the children of King Mongkut. The clash of cultures and the evolving relationship between Anna and the King are central themes, with songs like “Getting to Know You” and “Shall We Dance.”

Broadway Run: 1951 – 1954; Revival: 1977 – 1978; Revival: 1985; Revival: 1996 – 1998; Revival: 2015 – 2016

14. Matilda

Literary Work: Matilda (1988)
Author: Roald Dahl
Synopsis of the Musical: Adapted from Dahl’s beloved children’s book, Matilda the Musical by Tim Minchin tells the story of Matilda Wormwood, a brilliant young girl with extraordinary powers and a love of reading, who overcomes her neglectful family and tyrannical headmistress, Miss Trunchbull. The musical is celebrated for its inventive choreography and songs like “When I Grow Up” and “Revolting Children,” highlighting themes of resilience and the power of imagination.

Broadway Run: 2013 – 2017

15. Big River

Literary Work: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn (1884)
Author: Mark Twain
Synopsis of the Musical: This musical adaptation of Twain’s classic novel follows the adventures of Huck Finn and Jim, a runaway slave, as they journey down the Mississippi River in search of freedom. With a score rooted in bluegrass and country music, the musical captures the spirit and themes of Twain’s work, including friendship, freedom, and the moral dilemmas of a society divided by racism. Songs like “Muddy Water” and “River in the Rain” are highlights.

Broadway Run: 1985 – 1987; Revival: 2003

16. Ragtime

Literary Work: Ragtime (1975)
Author: E.L. Doctorow
Synopsis of the Musical: This musical by Stephen Flaherty and Ahrens weaves together the stories of three groups in early 20th-century America: African Americans, upper-class suburbanites, and Eastern European immigrants. It explores themes of racial tension, social change, and the American Dream through a rich tapestry of characters and historical figures.

Broadway Run: 1998 – 2000; Revival: 2009 – 2010

17. The Lion King

Literary Work: Hamlet (1599)
Author: William Shakespeare
Synopsis of the Musical: While not a direct adaptation of a children’s book, The Lion King draws heavily on themes from Hamlet, presenting the story of Simba, a young lion who must reclaim his rightful place as king. It’s the highest-grossing Broadway musical production of all time. The musical is known for its stunning visuals and songs by Elton John and Tim Rice, including “Circle of Life.”

Broadway Run: 1997 – Present

18. The Wizard of Oz

Literary Work: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (1900)
Author: L. Frank Baum
Synopsis of the Musical: This musical adaptation follows Dorothy Gale as she is swept away to the magical land of Oz. Along her journey to meet the Wizard, she encounters memorable characters such as the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion. The musical features iconic songs like “If I Only Had a Brain” and “Over the Rainbow” and explores themes of friendship, courage, and the idea that there’s no place like home.

Broadway Run: 1903; Revival: 1904; Revival: 1928; Revival: 1933

19. The Little Mermaid

Literary Work: The Little Mermaid (1937)
Author: Hans Christian Andersen
Synopsis of the Musical: This adaptation with music by Alan Menken brings to life the story of Ariel, a young mermaid who dreams of becoming human. The musical captures her adventures as she strikes a deal with the sea witch Ursula to gain legs and pursue her love for Prince Eric. With enchanting songs by Alan Menken, including “Part of Your World” and “Under the Sea,” the show explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the quest for identity.

Broadway Run: January 10, 2008 – August 30, 2009

20. Beauty and the Beast

Literary Work: La Belle et la Bête (1740)
Author: Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve (original version); Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont (abridged and popularized version)
Synopsis of the Musical: The original fairy tale was written by Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve and first published in 1740. The most well-known version, which the Disney film and subsequent musical are based on, was an abridged adaptation by Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont, published in 1756. The story has been adapted into various forms over the centuries, including the iconic 1991 Disney animated film and the Broadway musical that followed. Based on the Disney animated film, the musical tells the story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, a young prince trapped under a spell. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed back into his former self. But time is running out. With the help of the enchanted household staff, Belle and the Beast find love and happiness at last. Notable songs include “Be Our Guest” and “Beauty and the Beast.”

Broadway Run: 1994 – 2007

21. Aladdin

Literary Work: One Thousand and One Nights (also known as Arabian Nights) (1709 “Aladdin” was published, but a much older story)
Author: various writers/oral tradition
Synopsis of the Musical: While the story of Aladdin is often associated with the Disney animated film, it is rooted in the collection of Middle Eastern folk tales known as One Thousand and One Nights. The musical adaptation follows the adventures of Aladdin, a street-smart young man who discovers a magical lamp and the wishes it grants. Themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery are central to the story, complemented by vibrant songs like “A Whole New World” and “Friend Like Me.”

Broadway Run: 2014 – present

Which one is your favorite? Did I miss any literature that inspired Broadway musicals? Leave a comment below!

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