5 Broadway Musicals to See in Ohio This Spring

Though New York City’s Broadway is hundreds of miles away from Ohio, the allure of these productions that made their names there shine brightly. From new musical comedies with murder-mystery flair and small-town charm to a touching tale based on a true story, this spring brings several acclaimed shows to stages across Ohio, So grab a ticket, take your seat and prepare to be delighted.

Come From Away | March 18-23
Be transported to Newfoundland, where 7,000 passengers are stranded as their planes are grounded in the wake of September 11, 2001, during ”Come From Away.” The musical adapts the true story of passengers who weathered unknown circumstances together amid rising tensions and cultural clashes to become friends. See the show at the Aronoff Center’s Procter & Gamble Hall stage in Cincinnati.

Pretty Woman | April 3-6
The film version of “Pretty Woman” was made famous by Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. Now, Vivian Ward takes the Stranahan Theater stage in Toledo for this unlikely love story that pairs a prostitute with a successful businessman who hires her to be his fake date for a few business events. See the charming and funny tale unfold onstage with music by Grammy Award winner Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance. 

A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical | April 22-27
Neil Diamond’s talent has transcended generations, and his story takes the stage at Columbus’ Ohio Theatre, complete with costuming that reflects the era. See Neil grow as a kid from Brooklyn into a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame-inducted star in this autobiographical tale told through classic hits like “Song Sung Blue” and “Sweet Caroline.”

Shucked | April 22-May 11
”Shucked,” a new, Tony-Award-winning musical comedy, visits Cleveland’s Playhouse Square on its North American tour. Featuring the songwriting team of Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally (the writer behind “Follow Your Arrow” by Kacy Musgraves), don’t miss this countryfied version of musical theater that matches big laughs with small town charm.

Clue | May 6-11
Miss Scarlet, Colonel Mustard, Professor Plum and the rest of the crew from the classic board game take the Stranahan Theater stage in Toledo for a musical inspired by the 1985 “Clue” film. Follow the story of six guests who gather at the Boddy Manor where a party turns into a whodunit that everyone is dying to figure out. Grab a seat and see if you can solve the mystery while enjoying catchy tunes.

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