If you’re looking for a dazzling escape into the golden age of Broadway, 42nd Street the Musical is an absolute must-see. This iconic production captures the heart and soul of 1930s showbiz, transporting audiences to a world of ambition, glittering lights, and unforgettable melodies. From its high-energy tap routines to its stunning Art Deco-inspired costumes, every element of 42nd Street the Musical exudes the timeless charm of classic Broadway.

At the heart of the show lies a heartwarming underdog story that resonates with anyone who has ever dared to dream. Following Peggy Sawyer’s journey from a hopeful small-town dancer to a shining Broadway star, the narrative is as inspiring as it is entertaining. Audiences worldwide have been swept away by the glitz, glamour, and grit of 42nd Street the Musical, making it a global phenomenon that continues to captivate theatregoers of all ages.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan revisiting its magic or experiencing it for the very first time, 42nd Street the Musical promises an evening of dazzling entertainment. With its iconic songs like “Lullaby of Broadway” and “We’re in the Money,” combined with breathtaking choreography and show-stopping performances, it’s no wonder this production has become synonymous with the golden age of musicals. Dive into the excitement and discover why 42nd Street the Musical remains one of the most celebrated shows in theatre history.

What is the Plot of 42nd Street the Musical?

Set during the Great Depression in 1933, 42nd Street the Musical weaves an inspiring story of ambition, talent, and determination. At its heart is Peggy Sawyer, a wide-eyed, small-town dancer from Allentown, Pennsylvania, who dreams of becoming a Broadway star. With her suitcase packed and stars in her eyes, Peggy heads to New York City to audition for Pretty Lady, a major new Broadway production led by the demanding and charismatic director Julian Marsh.

Peggy’s first audition doesn’t go as planned, but her undeniable talent earns her a spot in the chorus. As she steps into the world of showbiz, she becomes part of a vibrant ensemble full of camaraderie, ambition, and backstage drama. However, tension brews behind the curtain as Dorothy Brock, the seasoned yet temperamental star of Pretty Lady, struggles with personal and professional challenges. Her interactions with the cast, as well as her romantic entanglements, create friction within the production.

Disaster strikes when Dorothy suffers a devastating injury just days before the highly anticipated opening night. Faced with a crisis, Julian Marsh takes an extraordinary gamble, thrusting Peggy into the lead role. What follows is a whirlwind of rehearsals, pressure, and self-doubt as Peggy prepares to step into the spotlight. Against all odds, she delivers a show-stopping performance, captivating audiences and securing her place as a bona fide Broadway star.

The story of 42nd Street the Musical is more than just a tale of rags to riches; it’s a celebration of the grit, determination, and resilience of performers. It shines a spotlight on the magic of live theatre, where dreams are made, stars are born, and the show must go on no matter the challenges. Packed with emotional highs and dazzling moments of triumph, this timeless tale continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.

Is 42nd Street a Good Musical?

Without a doubt, 42nd Street the Musical is a masterpiece that has not only stood the test of time but continues to enchant audiences around the globe. Renowned for its infectious energy, dazzling choreography, and unforgettable score, this show embodies everything that makes musical theatre extraordinary. Since its Broadway debut in 1980, it has captured the hearts of millions, becoming a hallmark of the golden age of musicals.

What sets 42nd Street apart is its perfect blend of spectacle and storytelling. Signature numbers like “We’re in the Money,” “Lullaby of Broadway,” and the iconic title song “42nd Street” deliver show-stopping moments that leave audiences buzzing with excitement. The intricate tap choreography, brought to life by a talented ensemble, transforms each performance into a visual and auditory feast.

Beyond its stunning production values, 42nd Street the Musical resonates deeply through its universal themes of determination, perseverance, and triumph over adversity. Peggy Sawyer’s journey from an ambitious chorus girl to a Broadway star mirrors the dreams of countless performers, creating a narrative that inspires and uplifts audiences of all ages.

The accolades speak volumes about its enduring appeal. 42nd Street has won numerous prestigious awards, including Tony and Olivier Awards, cementing its status as one of the most beloved musicals in theatre history. Decades after its debut, it remains a favourite among critics and fans alike, continuing to grace stages around the world with its timeless charm and electrifying energy.

If you’re looking for a show that embodies the magic of Broadway—complete with spectacular dance routines, heartfelt storytelling, and iconic songs—you won’t find a better choice than 42nd Street the Musical.

What Age is the 42nd Street Musical Appropriate For?

42nd Street the Musical is a family-friendly production that appeals to a broad range of audiences, making it an excellent choice for theatre-goers of all ages. Packed with lively music, colourful costumes, and dazzling choreography, the show captivates younger viewers with its high-energy spectacle while offering themes of ambition and nostalgia that resonate deeply with adults.

The dynamic tap routines and visually stunning set pieces make 42nd Street particularly engaging for children aged 8 and above, who can appreciate the excitement of the fast-paced performances and the glamour of the Broadway stage. For younger viewers, the story of Peggy Sawyer’s rise to stardom serves as an inspiring tale of perseverance and hard work, while the vibrant ensemble brings a sense of fun and camaraderie that’s universally appealing.

Meanwhile, adult audiences can delve into the show’s richer layers, including its setting during the Great Depression, which adds historical context and emotional depth to the narrative. Themes of resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams make 42nd Street a show that’s as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.

Whether you’re planning a family outing, a date night, or an evening with friends, 42nd Street the Musical offers something for everyone. Its timeless charm, unforgettable music, and electrifying performances ensure that audiences of all generations leave the theatre with a sense of wonder and joy.

Where is 42nd Street Playing in the UK?

UK audiences are in for a treat this spring as 42nd Street takes the stage at The Brewhouse Arts Centre in Burton upon Trent. Running from Wednesday, 12th March, to Saturday, 15th March 2025, this production brings Broadway’s magic to a local audience.

The cast includes Hayden Fletcher, who starred as Nanki-Poo in Erewash Musical Society’s 2019 production of Hot Mikado. Hayden’s charisma and talent ensure a standout performance in this celebrated musical.

For tickets and more information, visit the Brewhouse Arts Centre website.

Erewash Musical Society’s Connection to 42nd Street

Erewash Musical Society (EMS) has a proud history of staging Broadway classics, including their unforgettable 2010 production of 42nd Street. This show brought the glitz and glamour of Broadway to Derbyshire, delighting local audiences with its meticulous choreography, stunning costumes, and heartfelt performances.

The 2010 production remains a cherished memory for EMS and its community, showcasing the extraordinary talent and dedication of its cast and crew.

Why is 42nd Street So Famous?

42nd Street the Musical is celebrated as one of the most iconic productions in theatre history, renowned for its groundbreaking choreography, unforgettable music, and unparalleled spectacle. Its 1980 Broadway debut, directed and choreographed by the legendary Gower Champion, marked a turning point in musical theatre. With its intricate tap routines, lavish costumes, and emotionally resonant storytelling, the production set a new standard for dance-centric musicals and captured the essence of Broadway’s golden age.

One of the key reasons 42nd Street has achieved legendary status is its ability to balance glitz and heart. While the show dazzles audiences with its large-scale, show-stopping dance numbers, it also weaves a story of ambition, perseverance, and triumph that resonates universally. Peggy Sawyer’s journey from small-town dreamer to Broadway star mirrors the aspirations of countless performers and viewers, making the narrative both relatable and inspiring.

The musical’s groundbreaking choreography is particularly noteworthy. Champion’s vision brought tap dancing to the forefront of Broadway, transforming it into a visual and emotional storytelling device. Numbers like “42nd Street” and “We’re in the Money” are not just performances but spectacles that leave audiences in awe of their scale and precision. The illuminated staircase, an iconic set piece featured in the finale, has become a symbol of the glamour and ambition that defines Broadway.

Moreover, 42nd Street the Musical revitalized interest in dance-heavy productions at a time when musical theatre was evolving. Its success demonstrated that large ensemble pieces and intricate staging could captivate modern audiences, influencing countless future productions. By marrying the grandeur of classic Broadway with a fresh, engaging energy, 42nd Street ensured its place as a timeless masterpiece.

The themes of resilience and the transformative power of art further enhance the show’s universal appeal. Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, 42nd Street not only celebrates the determination of performers but also reflects the hope and escapism that theatre provides in challenging times. This blend of dazzling entertainment and heartfelt storytelling continues to make 42nd Street the Musical a favourite for audiences worldwide.

With its legacy firmly established, 42nd Street remains a benchmark for what musical theatre can achieve—a perfect marriage of spectacle, emotion, and artistry that captures the magic of Broadway like no other.

Fun Facts About 42nd Street the Musical

A Bittersweet Opening Night: The musical’s original Broadway production premiered on August 25, 1980. Tragically, Gower Champion, the show’s director and choreographer, passed away that morning. Producer David Merrick announced Champion’s death during the curtain call, making the opening night both historic and deeply emotional.
A Film Legacy: 42nd Street was originally a 1933 Warner Bros. film directed by Lloyd Bacon, featuring choreography by Busby Berkeley. The film’s success laid the groundwork for the stage adaptation decades later.
Longest-Running Broadway Show: At the time of its closure in 1989, the original Broadway production had run for 3,486 performances, making it one of the longest-running shows in history.
Tony Award Glory: The 1981 Tony Awards saw 42nd Street win Best Musical, among other accolades, solidifying its place in theatre history.
Record-Breaking Revival: The 2001 Broadway revival of 42nd Street won the Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical and introduced the show to a new generation of theatre lovers.
A Stairway to Stardom: The iconic illuminated staircase featured in the title number has become a symbol of Broadway glamour and ambition.
Dance Marathon: The show’s choreography includes some of the most demanding tap sequences ever staged, with cast members performing intricate routines in perfect unison.
A Global Hit: Since its debut, 42nd Street has been performed in numerous countries, including Australia, Japan, and the UK, earning acclaim from audiences worldwide.

Song List for 42nd Street the Musical

One of the highlights of 42nd Street is its incredible score. Here’s a list of songs featured in the musical:

Overture
Audition
Young and Healthy
Shadow Waltz
Go Into Your Dance
You’re Getting to Be a Habit with Me
Getting Out of Town
Dames
I Only Have Eyes for You
We’re in the Money
Lullaby of Broadway
About a Quarter to Nine
Shuffle Off to Buffalo
42nd Street
Finale

These songs capture the spirit of the golden age of Broadway, blending lively rhythms with heartfelt melodies.

Experience the Magic of 42nd Street

42nd Street is more than a musical; it’s a celebration of dreams, resilience, and the transformative power of theatre. From its show-stopping tap routines to its timeless story, the production offers a theatrical experience like no other.

This March, don’t miss the chance to see 42nd Street at The Brewhouse Arts Centre. With a talented cast led by Hayden Fletcher and a production team dedicated to excellence, it promises to be a performance that leaves audiences buzzing.

And if you’re inspired to step into the spotlight yourself, why not join Erewash Musical Society? Their history of high-quality productions, like their 2010 rendition of 42nd Street, proves that local theatre can be just as magical as Broadway.

Step into the world of 42nd Street and let its music, dance, and story sweep you away!

The Ultimate Guide to 42nd Street the Musical