Meryl Streep, Christine Baranski, and Julie Walters in ‘Mamma Mia!’ (2008) (Photo: Universal Studios)
Cover Meryl Streep, Christine Baranski, and Julie Walters in ‘Mamma Mia!’ (2008) (Photo: Universal Studios)
Meryl Streep, Christine Baranski, and Julie Walters in ‘Mamma Mia!’ (2008) (Photo: Universal Studios)

Over the past two decades, jukebox musicals have proven their staying power, appealing to audiences with familiar music, fresh storytelling and spectacular performances

Nothing gets feet tapping and hearts pumping more than a good jukebox musical. This category of musicals manages to be both sentimental yet also very current, making it a delight for audiences of all ages. 

What are ‘jukebox musicals’ exactly? The niche within the musicals genre takes existing songs and weaves them into a story. Think of how the 2018 musical Jagged Little Pill introduced a new generation to Alanis Morissette’s ouevre. And thanks to the popularity of all things nostalgic, it’s experienced a steady resurgence in popularity.

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Jukebox musicals have been around since the 1950s, then as now turning chart-topping hits into larger-than-life performances, making them perfect for family entertainment. Here are some of the best jukebox musicals that bring fun, energy and, of course, great music across generations.

1. ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ (1952)

One of the earliest jukebox musicals, Singin’ in the Rain is a Hollywood classic that incorporates songs from the 1920s and 1930s. Set during the transition from silent films to “talkies,” the film follows movie stars Don Lockwood (Gene Kelly) and Lina Lamont (Jean Hagen) as they navigate the changing industry. The soundtrack features timeless hits like “Good Morning,” “Make ‘Em Laugh” and “Singin’ in the Rain,” which—no offence to original singer Cliff Edwards—has become synonymous with Gene Kelly.

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2. ‘Mamma Mia!’ (1999/stage, 2008/film)

The hardest part with Mamma Mia! is not standing up during “Dancing Queen” and, well, dance. Few jukebox musicals have had the global impact of this production, both on stage and screen. Built around the music of ABBA, the story follows Sophie, a young bride-to-be who secretly invites three of her probable fathers to her wedding on a Greek island. The infectious soundtrack, featuring “Chiquitita,” “Super Trouper” and “Mamma Mia,” keeps the energy high throughout, making it a fun and feel-good experience for families.

3. ‘Across the Universe’ (2007)

This visually striking musical film weaves together more than 30 songs by The Beatles into a love story set in the 1960s. Following British artist Jude (Jim Sturgess) and American student Lucy (Evan Rachel Wood), Across the Universe demonstrates romance, war and counterculture via iconic Beatles tracks like “Hey Jude,” “Let It Be” and “All You Need Is Love.” The film’s imaginative sequences and reinterpretations of classic songs make it an engaging watch for both Beatles fans and newcomers alike.

Also read: The Beatles’ last song ‘Now And Then’ releases today—four decades after John Lennon recorded its demo

4. ‘Jersey Boys’ (2005/stage, 2014/film)

Jersey Boys is a hit musical that chronicles the rise of the legendary doo-wop group The Four Seasons, particularly its lead vocalist, Frankie Valli. With songs like “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” the show captures the highs and lows of the band’s journey to fame. Whether seen on stage or in the 2014 Clint Eastwood-directed film adaptation, Jersey Boys delivers a terrific mix of fun and drama.

5. ‘Sing’ (2016)

An animated jukebox musical? Turns out that the concept is as fun as it sounds. Sing follows a struggling theatre-owning koala named Buster Moon (Matthew McConaughey), who organises a singing competition to save his venue. Featuring over 60 pop hits from artists like Elton John, Taylor Swift and Stevie Wonder, the star-studded voice cast of Sing brings an energetic and colourful experience to younger audiences, while still offering plenty of nostalgia for adults.

6. ‘Rock of Ages’ (2006/stage, 2012/film)

Do you want to explain your favourite karaoke song to your kids? This musical is the answer. It’s perfect for families who love rock music. Set in the 1980s, Rock of Ages pays tribute to the glam rock era with songs from Bon Jovi, Journey, Def Leppard and more. The story follows aspiring musician Drew and small-town girl Sherrie as they chase their dreams in Los Angeles. The film adaptation, with a stellar performance from Tom Cruise, brought the stage spectacle to the big screen, complete with big hair and bigger ballads. You’ll have “Don’t Stop Believin’” and “Wanted Dead or Alive” in your head days after watching this.

7. ‘Beautiful: The Carole King Musical’ (2013)

Focusing on the life and career of legendary songwriter Carole King, Beautiful tells the story behind some of the biggest hits of the 1960s and 1970s. Featuring songs like “You’ve Got a Friend,” “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” and “It’s Too Late,” the show highlights King’s journey from a teenage songwriter to a global music icon. The combination of heartfelt storytelling and beloved songs makes Beautiful a standout in the jukebox musical genre.

8. ‘& Juliet’ (2019)

What if Juliet didn’t die at the end of Romeo and Juliet? That’s the premise of & Juliet, a modern jukebox musical that reimagines the Shakespearean heroine’s fate using the songs of Swedish hitmaker Max Martin. Featuring pop anthems like “Since U Been Gone,” “Roar” and “Larger Than Life,” this vibrant and playful play gives Juliet a fresh new story, making it an exciting watch for those who love contemporary pop music.

9. ‘We Will Rock You’ (2002)

The elaborate music of Queen is just pitch-perfect for a musical. We Will Rock You is a sci-fi musical set in a dystopian future where rock music is forbidden. Featuring Queen essentials like “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Another One Bites the Dust” and “We Are the Champions,” the story follows a group of rebels fighting to bring music back to the world.

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10. ‘Trolls’ (2016)

Like Sing, Trolls brings a jukebox musical to the world of animation. It revolves around the always-happy Poppy (Anna Kendrick) and the grumpy Branch (Justin Timberlake), embarking on a journey to save their friends. Trolls is packed with vibrant visuals and a catchy soundtrack. Hits like “Can’t Stop the Feeling” and “True Colors” make it a feel-good musical for kids and parents alike.

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