10 Musicals for Teens and Young Adults

1. Jagged Little Pill

Jagged Little Pill is a masterpiece with its catchy songs and universal message, but this show is really an ode to the teenage spirit. Based on Alanis Morissette’s groundbreaking 1995 album of the same name, this musical isn’t just a nostalgic trip back to the ’90s —it’s a thought-provoking, emotionally charged exploration of issues that are deeply relevant to today’s youth. Young people can relate to the struggles portrayed in this show, like lack of parental acceptance, being misunderstood, and the human desire to dissociate from problems.

2. Avenue Q

Avenue Q was definitely made to be viewed by young adults. Princeton’s journey of self-discovery is one that everyone can relate to, and Trekkie Monster with his incessant web-surfing is a timeless character. Rated R for full frontal puppet nudity, Avenue Q is a show about adjusting to adult life, socially and financially. And while society expects the main characters to be mature, the production shows the innocence of a young adult by taking place in a Sesame Street-like world.

3. Be More Chill

Be More Chill is a classic example of a musical written about young people for young people. As well as having modern themes like social media, fitting in, and navigating relationships. Jeremy and Michael have an awesome dynamic that young people can relate to. The show speaks directly to the teenage experience in a way that’s both entertaining and meaningful, which is why it has such a strong appeal.

4. Beetlejuice

The original movie has been around since 1988, but Beetlejuice the musical has become a crowd favorite for the new generation. This show weaves dark humor with visually stunning scenery and engaging music by Eddie Perfect in a way that can be best understood by teens.

5. Hamilton

Everything about Lin Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton beckons to teens and young adults. Hamilton blends traditional Broadway music with hip-hop and R&B in a way that makes sense to young people. Most importantly though, this musical has skyrocketed to world domination, not just in theater, but in popular culture. Hamilton’s popularity has turned many young people on to musical theater and opened an entire culture to them.

6. Ride the Cyclone

Ride the Cyclone is more than just an engaging and hilarious musical; it is a profound exploration of life, death, sexy cats, and self-discovery that offers valuable lessons for young people. The main characters steal the hearts of teen audience members through the show’s blend of humor, emotional depth, and innovative storytelling. This one-act musical encourages self-reflection, empathy, and resilience and will always leave viewers engaged and entertained.

7. Dear Evan Hansen

Teens and young adults relate to Dear Evan Hansen not just because the title character is a teen. Young people see themselves in the show’s other high schoolers, as well as in situations that resonate – like arguing with parents, resenting a sibling, and wanting to be seen and not seen all at the same time. With music and lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, Steven Levenson’s compelling narrative offers young adults a chance for self-reflection through contemporary music and beautiful lyrics.

8. Kimberly Akimbo

Kimberly Akimbo stands out as a gem particularly resonant for young audiences. This musical — with its cast of high schoolers and a main character who looks far older than her years — blends heart, humor, and incisive storytelling. It’s a show that pushes the boundaries of musical theater.

9. Hadestown

Hadestown is a contemporary reimagining of ancient Greek myths, specifically the stories of Orpheus and Eurydice, and Hades and Persephone. By bringing these timeless tales to life with a modern twist, the musical makes classical literature accessible and engaging for young audiences. The vibrant, folk-inspired score and innovative staging breathe new life into these ancient stories, demonstrating how age-old themes can still be relevant and compelling.

10. Wicked

At first glance, teens and young adults may scoff at Wicked, thinking that it’s merely a fairytale narrative better suited to kids. That’s not necessarily true. Based on The Wizard of Oz, the story takes place mostly before Dorothy even arrives at the Emerald City, looking instead at the relationship of two young witches, Glinda and Elphaba. The show explores themes of friendship, identity, and rebellion against authority. Throw in a little fantasy and romance and that explains why Wicked has been so popular with teens.