Broadway musicals captivate audiences with their enchanting stories, memorable songs, and dazzling performances. They represent the pinnacle of live theater, blending music, dance, and drama into unforgettable experiences.
Each show carries its unique charm, often becoming a cultural phenomenon. From the haunting melodies of “The Phantom of the Opera” to the timeless classics of “Cats”, Broadway continues to be a vibrant hub for theatrical innovation. Fans and newcomers alike find joy in the diverse array of productions, each offering something special. Trivia about these musicals not only deepens appreciation but also connects enthusiasts to the rich history and artistry of Broadway.
101 Broadway Musical Trivia Questions And Answers
Here’s a collection of 101 Broadway Musical trivia questions and answers, categorized by different themes. These questions span a range of difficulty levels and topics, from classic musicals to modern hits.
Classic Broadway Musicals
1. Q: Who wrote the music and lyrics for West Side Story?
A: Leonard Bernstein (music) and Stephen Sondheim (lyrics)
2. Q: What is the name of the street where the two gangs in West Side Story clash?
A: 46th Street
3. Q: Which musical features the song “Tomorrow”?
A: Annie
4. Q: Which musical is based on the 1950s film The King and I?
A: The King and I
5. Q: Who played the lead role of Maria in the original 1957 Broadway production of West Side Story?
A: Carol Lawrence
6. Q: Which musical is set in the fictional land of Oz?
A: Wicked
7. Q: What is the name of the main character in Fiddler on the Roof?
A: Tevye
8. Q: In My Fair Lady, what is the name of the flower girl Eliza Doolittle?
A: Eliza Doolittle
9. Q: What was the longest-running Broadway musical in history until The Phantom of the Opera took over in 1988?
A: Cats
10. Q: In Oklahoma!, what is the name of the girl who sings “I Can’t Say No”?
A: Ado Annie
Musical Plot and Storylines
11. Q: In Les Misérables, who is the character that sings “I Dreamed a Dream”?
A: Fantine
12. Q: What animal is featured in the musical The Lion King?
A: A lion
13. Q: Which musical is set during the French Revolution and tells the story of a former convict turned philanthropist?
A: Les Misérables
14. Q: In Rent, what is the name of the HIV-positive character who struggles with addiction?
A: Roger
15. Q: Which musical is based on a novel by Victor Hugo?
A: Les Misérables
16. Q: What is the name of the young orphan girl in Annie?
A: Annie
17. Q: Who is the main antagonist in The Phantom of the Opera?
A: The Phantom
18. Q: What character does the musical Chicago focus on?
A: Roxie Hart
19. Q: Which musical centers around a group of struggling artists living in New York City?
A: Rent
20. Q: In Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, what is the name of the baker who helps Todd?
A: Mrs. Lovett
Broadway Stars and Performers
21. Q: Who originated the role of Elphaba in Wicked?
A: Idina Menzel
22. Q: Which actress won a Tony Award for her role in Gypsy in 1959?
A: Ethel Merman
23. Q: Who played the lead role of Jean Valjean in the 2014 Broadway revival of Les Misérables?
A: Ramin Karimloo
24. Q: Which Broadway legend starred as the original Evita in 1979?
A: Patti LuPone
25. Q: Which actress starred as Glinda in Wicked opposite Idina Menzel’s Elphaba?
A: Kristin Chenoweth
26. Q: Who is known for the song “Defying Gravity” from Wicked?
A: Idina Menzel
27. Q: Who played the role of Christine Daaé in the original Broadway production of The Phantom of the Opera?
A: Sarah Brightman
28. Q: Who originated the role of Jean Valjean in the 1987 Broadway production of Les Misérables?
A: Colm Wilkinson
29. Q: Which actress won the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical in 2006 for her role in The Drowsy Chaperone?
A: Sutton Foster
30. Q: Who played the title role in Mary Poppins on Broadway?
A: Ashley Brown
Award Winners and Milestones
31. Q: What musical won the Tony Award for Best Musical in 2004?
A: Avenue Q
32. Q: Which musical won the Tony Award for Best Musical in 2016?
A: Hamilton
33. Q: Who won the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical in 2015 for her role in Fun Home?
A: Beth Malone
34. Q: Which musical won the Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical in 2010?
A: La Cage aux Folles
35. Q: Which Broadway musical won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 2008?
A: August: Osage County
36. Q: Which musical won the Tony Award for Best Musical in 1996?
A: Rent
37. Q: Which Broadway musical won the Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical in 1999?
A: The Sound of Music
38. Q: What year did The Phantom of the Opera win the Tony Award for Best Musical?
A: 1988
39. Q: Which musical won the Tony Award for Best Musical in 1985?
A: Les Misérables
40. Q: Which Broadway musical won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 2016?
A: Hamilton
Fun Facts Broadway Musical Trivia Questions
41. Q: Which Broadway musical features a song titled “The Circle of Life”?
A: The Lion King
42. Q: What Broadway musical is based on a real-life event in which a plane crashes in the Andes?
A: Violet
43. Q: In The Book of Mormon, what is the name of the missionary who goes to Uganda?
A: Elder Price
44. Q: In Kinky Boots, what is the name of the drag queen who helps the main character?
A: Lola
45. Q: What is the name of the composer behind the musical In the Heights?
A: Lin-Manuel Miranda
46. Q: Which famous musical features a character named Maria who becomes a nun in the convent?
A: The Sound of Music
47. Q: What is the name of the principal character in The Phantom of the Opera who haunts the Paris Opera House?
A: The Phantom (Erik)
48. Q: Which Broadway musical had the longest-running performance in history until The Phantom of the Opera surpassed it?
A: Cats
49. Q: What is the setting for the musical Rent?
A: New York City’s East Village
50. Q: What is the title of the song from The Sound of Music that became a popular hit?
A: “Do-Re-Mi”
Broadway Musicals in Film
51. Q: Which movie musical features the song “You Can’t Stop the Beat”?
A: Hairspray
52. Q: Which musical was adapted into a 2006 film starring Meryl Streep and Amanda Seyfried?
A: Mamma Mia!
53. Q: Which movie musical was adapted from the Broadway show of the same name, starring Hugh Jackman in 2012?
A: Les Misérables
54. Q: Who starred in the film version of Chicago (2002)?
A: Renée Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Richard Gere
55. Q: What Broadway musical was made into a film in 2008, starring Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens?
A: High School Musical
56. Q: Which 2002 film adaptation of a Broadway musical won six Academy Awards?
A: Chicago
57. Q: In the 2014 film Into the Woods, which actress plays the role of the Witch?
A: Meryl Streep
58. Q: Who starred as the character of Danny Zuko in the 1978 film adaptation of Grease?
A: John Travolta
59. Q: In the 2001 film Moulin Rouge!, who played the character of Christian?
A: Ewan McGregor
60. Q: Which 2003 film is based on the Broadway musical about a troubled teenager living in a mental hospital?
A: The Fantasticks
Musical Songs and Lyrics
61. Q: Which Broadway musical features the song “Defying Gravity”?
A: Wicked
62. Q: Which song from The Sound of Music was famously sung by Julie Andrews on screen?
A: “My Favorite Things”
63. Q: What is the title of the iconic song sung by Jean Valjean in Les Misérables that begins with the lyrics “Who am I?”
A: “What Have I Done?”
64. Q: What song from Rent is about the fear of change and letting go of the past?
A: “Seasons of Love”
65. Q: In Chicago, which song is famously performed by Roxie Hart, expressing her desire for fame?
A: “Roxie”
66. Q: What song does the character of Eliza Doolittle sing in My Fair Lady to demonstrate her new speech skills?
A: “The Rain in Spain”
67. Q: In Hamilton, what song introduces Alexander Hamilton’s backstory?
A: “Alexander Hamilton”
68. Q: Which song from The Phantom of the Opera is the love duet between Christine and the Phantom?
A: “The Phantom of the Opera”
69. Q: What is the title of the famous opening number from Les Misérables, sung by the chorus as the story begins?
A: “Look Down”
70. Q: What song from Mamma Mia! was originally performed by ABBA and is sung in the musical during the wedding scene?
A: “Dancing Queen”
Iconic Broadway Characters
71. Q: Which character is the lead in Les Misérables, known for his transformation from a convict to a philanthropist?
A: Jean Valjean
72. Q: In The Lion King, what is the name of Simba’s father?
A: Mufasa
73. Q: In Wicked, who is Elphaba’s best friend who becomes the “good witch”?
A: Glinda
74. Q: Who is the lead character in Chicago who becomes a media sensation for committing murder?
A: Roxie Hart
75. Q: What is the name of the main character in Hairspray who dreams of dancing on TV?
A: Tracy Turnblad
76. Q: In Phantom of the Opera, who is the beautiful soprano whom the Phantom becomes obsessed with?
A: Christine Daaé
77. Q: In Mary Poppins, what is the name of the family the magical nanny looks after?
A: The Banks family
78. Q: In Rent, what character is a musician and lover of Mimi, struggling with his HIV status?
A: Roger
79. Q: Who is the star of Annie, the orphan who is adopted by a billionaire?
A: Annie
80. Q: In Fiddler on the Roof, what is the name of Tevye’s wife?
A: Golde
Broadway Musical Facts and Firsts
81. Q: Which Broadway musical is the longest-running show in Broadway history?
A: The Phantom of the Opera
82. Q: Which musical was the first to win the Tony Award for Best Musical in 1949?
A: Kiss Me, Kate
83. Q: What year did the musical Cats debut on Broadway?
A: 1982
84. Q: Which Broadway musical holds the record for the most Tony Awards won in a single year?
A: The Producers (2001)
85. Q: What year did Rent make its Broadway debut?
A: 1996
86. Q: Which Broadway musical was the first to feature rap music in its score?
A: Hamilton
87. Q: What year did Les Misérables first open on Broadway?
A: 1987
88. Q: Which musical features the song “I Am What I Am”?
A: La Cage aux Folles
89. Q: Which musical is based on the works of William Shakespeare and has a love story at its core?
A: West Side Story (loosely based on Romeo and Juliet)
90. Q: What musical’s score includes the songs “One Day More” and “Do You Hear the People Sing?”
A: Les Misérables
Broadway Behind the Scenes
91. Q: Who wrote the score for The Lion King on Broadway?
A: Elton John (music) and Tim Rice (lyrics)
92. Q: Which director is known for staging many Broadway classics, including Chicago and Cabaret?
A: Bob Fosse
93. Q: Who wrote the lyrics and music for Hamilton?
A: Lin-Manuel Miranda
94. Q: Who is the composer behind Wicked, Pippin, and The Apple Tree?
A: Stephen Schwartz
95. Q: Which choreographer is responsible for A Chorus Line and Chicago?
A: Bob Fosse
96. Q: Who directed the Broadway musical The Book of Mormon?
A: Trey Parker, Matt Stone, and Robert Lopez
97. Q: Who created the concept and score for Avenue Q?
A: Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx
98. Q: What Broadway composer is known for Sweeney Todd, Into the Woods, and Company?
A: Stephen Sondheim
99. Q: Who was the original director and choreographer for West Side Story?
A: Jerome Robbins
100. Q: What famous musical duo wrote the score for Oklahoma! and The Sound of Music?
A: Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II
101. Q: Which Broadway director is known for staging The Producers and Young Frankenstein?
A: Mel Brooks
Broadway Origins
Broadway musicals have fascinated audiences for over a century. These captivating shows combine music, dance, and storytelling. Let’s dive into the origins of Broadway and uncover some intriguing trivia.
Early Beginnings
Broadway’s origins trace back to the late 19th century. The first theaters appeared in New York City. They were located on or near Broadway Street. By the early 1900s, Broadway had become a hub for theatrical productions.
Early Broadway shows were inspired by European operettas. These shows were light and funny. They featured catchy songs and elaborate costumes. Gilbert and Sullivan were among the most famous creators of these early works.
- In 1866, The Black Crook premiered. It is often considered the first Broadway musical.
- The Ziegfeld Follies began in 1907. These were lavish revues with music, dance, and comedy.
- By 1927, Show Boat changed the game. It combined serious drama with musical elements.
Broadway’s early days were a mix of experimentation and tradition. Writers and composers tried new ideas. They wanted to create something uniquely American. Their efforts laid the foundation for modern Broadway.
Influential Shows
Several shows have left a lasting impact on Broadway. These influential productions changed the way people think about musical theater.
One of the most notable is Oklahoma!. Premiering in 1943, it was the first musical to integrate songs with the plot. This was a revolutionary idea at the time. The music and story worked together to create a cohesive experience.
West Side Story premiered in 1957. It brought a new level of realism to Broadway. The show tackled serious issues like gang violence and racism. Its dance sequences were groundbreaking and influential.
The Phantom of the Opera is another landmark show. Premiering in 1986, it became the longest-running show in Broadway history. Its haunting music and lavish production captivated audiences worldwide.
| Show | Year | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma! | 1943 | Integrated songs with plot |
| West Side Story | 1957 | Tackled serious social issues |
| The Phantom of the Opera | 1986 | Longest-running show |
These influential shows paved the way for future productions. They inspired new generations of writers, composers, and performers. Broadway continues to evolve, but its roots are firmly planted in these early innovations.
Iconic Musicals
Broadway musicals have enchanted audiences for decades. Broadway Musical Trivia Questions can uncover surprising facts about these shows. Iconic Musicals stand out because of their memorable songs, characters, and stories.
Timeless Classics
Timeless Classics are musicals that have stood the test of time. These shows have delighted audiences across generations. Here are some classic musicals everyone should know about:
- The Phantom of the Opera: This musical has mysterious and haunting music. It tells the story of a masked man who lives beneath an opera house.
- Les Misérables: Based on Victor Hugo’s novel, it showcases the struggles during the French Revolution. Its songs like “I Dreamed a Dream” are unforgettable.
- West Side Story: A modern-day Romeo and Juliet, this musical deals with gang rivalries. Its dance sequences are legendary.
These musicals have not only entertained but also influenced pop culture. They have been adapted into movies, translated into many languages, and performed worldwide.
Modern Hits
Modern Hits are the musicals that have captured the hearts of today’s audiences. These shows bring fresh stories and contemporary music to the stage:
- Hamilton: Created by Lin-Manuel Miranda, this musical blends hip-hop with history. It tells the story of Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s Founding Fathers.
- Dear Evan Hansen: This musical deals with social issues like anxiety and loneliness. Its song “You Will Be Found” has become an anthem for many.
- Wicked: A prequel to The Wizard of Oz, it explores the backstory of the Wicked Witch of the West. Its song “Defying Gravity” is a showstopper.
These modern hits have brought new audiences to Broadway. They have won numerous awards and have toured globally. Their innovative storytelling and music have redefined what a Broadway musical can be.
Famous Composers
Broadway musicals bring joy and excitement to audiences worldwide. A big part of their charm comes from the brilliant composers behind the scenes. These talented individuals create the unforgettable music that makes Broadway so special. Let’s dive into some fun trivia about famous composers who have shaped the world of Broadway.
Legendary Figures
Several composers have left an indelible mark on Broadway. These legendary figures have created timeless classics that continue to captivate audiences:
- Richard Rodgers: Richard Rodgers was part of the famous duo Rodgers and Hammerstein. They created beloved musicals like The Sound of Music and Oklahoma!.
- Andrew Lloyd Webber: Andrew Lloyd Webber is known for his spectacular shows like The Phantom of the Opera and Cats. His musicals have enchanted millions.
- Stephen Sondheim: Stephen Sondheim’s work includes classics like Sweeney Todd and Into the Woods. His unique style and storytelling are unmatched.
Here’s a quick look at their most famous works:
| Composer | Famous Works |
|---|---|
| Richard Rodgers | The Sound of Music, Oklahoma! |
| Andrew Lloyd Webber | The Phantom of the Opera, Cats |
| Stephen Sondheim | Sweeney Todd, Into the Woods |
Emerging Talents
New talents continue to emerge, bringing fresh ideas to Broadway. These composers are making waves with their innovative works:
- Lin-Manuel Miranda: Lin-Manuel Miranda took the world by storm with Hamilton. His unique blend of hip-hop and history is revolutionary.
- Pasek and Paul: The duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul created hits like Dear Evan Hansen. Their music resonates with younger audiences.
- Jeanine Tesori: Jeanine Tesori is known for Fun Home and Shrek the Musical. Her work is diverse and impactful.
Here’s a snapshot of their notable contributions:
| Composer | Notable Works |
|---|---|
| Lin-Manuel Miranda | Hamilton, In the Heights |
| Pasek and Paul | Dear Evan Hansen, The Greatest Showman |
| Jeanine Tesori | Fun Home, Shrek the Musical |
FAQs About Broadway Musical Trivia Questions
What Is A Broadway Musical?
A Broadway musical is a stage performance combining songs, dialogue, acting, and dance. It typically runs in one of 41 professional theaters located in New York City’s Theater District.
Which Is The Longest-running Broadway Musical?
“The Phantom of the Opera” holds the record for the longest-running Broadway musical. It has been captivating audiences since its debut in 1988.
How Many Theaters Are On Broadway?
Broadway is home to 41 professional theaters. These theaters are primarily located in Manhattan’s Theater District and Lincoln Center.
What Makes A Musical A Broadway Musical?
A musical is considered a Broadway musical if it performs in one of the 41 designated Broadway theaters. These theaters must have 500 or more seats.
Conclusion
Dive into the magical world of Broadway with these trivia questions. Test your knowledge and impress your friends. Keep exploring, and you’ll discover more fascinating facts about your favorite musicals. Stay tuned for more fun and engaging content. Happy quizzing!
