New York City has no shortage of iconic sites—from the world-class art housed in its famous museums to the architectural marvels that define its skyline. Let’s face it: New York City seriously delivers on the wow factor.
But the city’s real showstopper is Broadway. This uniquely American art form is ephemeral, existing in a moment of time, yet leaving a lasting impression. Each performance is a fleeting experience, never exactly repeated, which is part of what makes seeing a show live in New York so magical.
When it comes to experiencing Broadway as a group, where you go for guidance matters. That’s where Broadway Inbound comes in. As the leading authority on Broadway group experiences, we specialize in matching audiences with shows that don’t just entertain—but truly wow, whether that’s through jaw-dropping spectacle, powerhouse performances, or unforgettable stagecraft. With deep industry knowledge and a front-row seat to what’s resonating right now, we know which productions leave groups buzzing long after the curtain call.
So if you’re looking to impress, inspire, and build your group travel plans around a fantastic show, here are the Broadway productions delivering the biggest wow factors on stage right now.
The Show: Buena Vista Social Club
Set in the heart of Havana, where the nights pulse with music and passion, the show transports audiences to the vibrant 1950s and follows the journey of four extraordinary musicians who weathered the upheaval of the Cuban Revolution. Through every challenge, their devotion to music never wavered. Their story culminates in the creation of their iconic 1997 album, which went on to captivate audiences around the world. Performed entirely in Spanish, the score blends Son, Danzón, and Bolero—even without understanding every word, the rhythms and emotion speak for themselves. At its core, the show is a celebration of resilience, artistry, and the enduring power of timeless music.
The Big Wow:
It’s all about the music. The production features a sensational onstage band of Cuban musicians, making live performance the heartbeat of the show. Their playing doesn’t simply support the story—it commands the stage. The musicians’ extraordinary work earned a Special Tony Award, a rare honor that recognizes the show’s ability to deliver an authentic, electrifying musical experience unlike anything else on Broadway.
The Show: MJ The Musical
Set during rehearsals for Michael Jackson’s iconic Dangerous Tour in the early ’90s, MJ The Musical offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process that shaped one of the most influential entertainers of all time. The show blends storytelling with a powerhouse lineup of Jackson’s greatest hits, including “Smooth Criminal,” “Thriller,” and “Billie Jean,” revealing the discipline, innovation, and vision behind his legendary stage presence.
The Big Wow:
The choreography is the showstopper. Tony Award–winning choreographer Christopher Wheeldon delivers electrifying movement inspired by Michael Jackson’s unmistakable style, with additional choreography by Rich + Tone Talauega—collaborators who worked directly with Jackson himself. Their combined expertise brings the King of Pop’s iconic moves to life with stunning precision and energy, transforming the stage into a nonstop, high-impact celebration of rhythm, control, and innovation.
The Show: Stranger Things: The First Shadow
Set well before Demogorgons and the Upside Down made Hawkins famous, the play Stranger Things: The First Shadow takes audiences back to 1959 in the seemingly sleepy town of Hawkins, Indiana. This thrilling prequel to the hit Netflix series explores the early life of Henry Creel. Hoping for a fresh start after a troubled past, Henry struggles to find his place in a new town as unsettling crimes begin to rattle the community. As he forms friendships and even joins the school play, he’s forced to confront the chilling possibility of his connection to the strange events unfolding around him. With suspense, friendship, and self-discovery woven throughout, the story resonates with both longtime fans of the series and newcomers alike.
The Big Wow:
The visuals are nothing short of jaw-dropping. The production earned a Special Tony Award in 2025 for Illusions & Technical Effects, with its lighting, sound, and scenic design also receiving individual Tony Awards. Through inventive stagecraft and immersive effects, the show transforms the theatre into a world where reality blurs with the Upside Down. From eerie visuals to chilling soundscapes, the technical wizardry delivers a fully immersive experience that leaves audiences in awe long after the curtain falls.
The Show: Moulin Rouge! The Musical
Based on the beloved film, Moulin Rouge! The Musical brings the legendary Parisian cabaret to vibrant life on stage, telling the passionate story of Christian, a young idealistic poet, and Satine, a dazzling courtesan destined for the spotlight. Set in the bohemian nightlife of Montmartre, this sweeping love story is a whirlwind of romance, ambition, and heartbreak, told through a high-energy mashup of iconic pop songs spanning decades. With themes of love, freedom, and artistic expression, the musical captures both the exhilaration and the cost of chasing big dreams, creating a richly immersive experience for theatregoers.
The Big Wow:
This show defines “spectacle.” The stage explodes with color, light, and movement, pulling the audience straight into the heart of the famed nightclub. Extravagant sets shift seamlessly from scene to scene, while lavish, glittering costumes dazzle under the lights. Exuberant choreography fuels the show’s nonstop momentum, perfectly matched to the pulsating score. Every visual element works together to create an all-encompassing theatrical experience—one that celebrates the bold spirit of bohemian Paris while delivering a modern Broadway extravaganza.
These are just a few of the incredible shows that are currently wowing audiences on Broadway—and any one of them can serve as the cornerstone of a truly unforgettable group trip. If you’re planning a visit, Broadway Inbound is an excellent resource to assist with the group purchasing process, making ticket acquisition a breeze whether you’re organizing a small group or a large gathering. To build on that core experience, consider adding a workshop or Q&A session with Broadway creators. These behind-the-scenes offerings provide firsthand insight into what it takes to bring a production to life, straight from the artists and experts who make the magic happen. It’s a powerful way to add even more “wow” to your trip.
When it comes to leading with Broadway and creating meaningful, memorable experiences for groups, Broadway Inbound is your trusted partner from planning to curtain call.