ALAMY
Broadway fanatics know Lin-Manuel Miranda never throws away his shot. And with his debut production “In The Heights” finally hitting theaters this month, musical lovers no longer have to wait for it. But before seeing Anthony Ramos take on the vibrant role, let’s look at other big-time stars who stole our hearts with the power of music.
When he’s not busy playing Wolverine, Hugh Jackman shines in “Les Miserables” and “The Greatest Showman.” So does John Travolta in “Grease,” although he plays a much different character in the film version of “Hairspray.” Rob Marshall, who is directing the live-action “Little Mermaid” remake, helmed the classic musical “Cabaret,” the film adaptation of “Chicago” and the sequel “Mary Poppins Returns,” which sadly doesn’t feature Julie Andrews. He also directed Meryl Streep on screen in “Into The Woods.” It’s definitely a more grim performance than her take on Donna in “Mamma Mia!”
Classic rags-to-riches tales like “Annie” and “A Star Is Born” prove to be timeless, even with the seemingly endless remakes that release every decade. But contemporary musicals like “Pitch Perfect,” “High School Musical” and “La La Land” boast modern flair, while the cast of “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist” provides fresh covers of the newest hits, similar to what “Glee” did back in the day.
But not every musical is as uplifting. Some offer sobering doses of reality like “The Sound of Music,” “The Last Five Years” and “Rent,” while others offer a darker twist on stage like “Sweeney Todd” and “The Phantom of the Opera.” Whether you’re ready for a good cry or to seize the day like the impressive “Newsies” dancers, there’s a musical waiting for you.