22 Best Musicals for High School Students to Stage in Your School Theater

In the midst of a bustling high school auditorium, charged with eager anticipation, the gradual ascent of the curtain marks the commencement of yet another remarkable high school musical production. These presentations of the theatrical kind possess a dual role: not solely purveyors of entertainment, but also wielders of educational prowess, illuminating dimensions of societal constructs and fundamental teachings of existence. However, within the domain of numerous alternatives, the selection of an optimal musical piece tailored for high school consumption assumes the proportions of a substantial predicament. 

This complexity is particularly pronounced in light of the myriad considerations that demand attention—ranging from thematic content and ensemble dimensions to vocal stylings and beyond. Fortunately, a compendium of 22 exemplary high school musicals has been meticulously curated, thereby permitting a channeling of efforts towards the meticulous choreographic detailing of that singular, show-stopping sequence.

Participating in high school musicals creates lasting memories that continue to resonate even after graduation. The camaraderie, creativity, and shared moments on stage become cherished experiences that shape both artistic passion and enduring friendships:

Comment below with your pictures of you in your high school musicals, and I’ll guess them. 🎶🎭👇🔮 pic.twitter.com/4OmoAXSLhX

— Chloe Condon (@ChloeCondon) September 7, 2019

So, here are the 22 best musicals for high school students:

1. Beauty and the Beast

• Cast: 21+ roles, large ensemble
• What Does It Teach: The musical explores themes of inner beauty, compassion, and acceptance of others despite outward appearances.
• Licensing: Music Theatre International

The narrative of Beauty and the Beast is likely familiar to you, which substantiates its position as a highly favored selection for high school musical productions. The anticipation of a gratifying experience encourages ticket purchases from audiences who are assured of their affinity for the performance. Furthermore, the production’s advantage lies in the ample assortment of roles available, thus affording an opportunity to showcase a broader array of proficient participants. The embellishment of the show’s aesthetics through engaging costumes serves as an additional advantage.

Witness the enchantment of the Beauty and the Beast musical in this captivating performance.Witness the enchantment of the ‘Beauty and the Beast’ musical in this captivating performance:

2. Mamma Mia!

• Cast: 13 roles, large ensemble
• What Does It Teach: This upbeat musical revolves around family, love, and self-discovery, using ABBA’s iconic music to tell its tales.
• Licensing: Music Theatre International

Mamma Mia! constitutes a classic within the realm of high school musicals, effectively inducing a sense of exuberance in your students, compelling them to participate in dance throughout the entire duration of the performance. The utilization of songs originating from Abba further heightens its appeal. Even if the audience remains unfamiliar with the intricacies of the production, the unmistakable tunes of “Dancing Queen” and “Money, Money, Money” are bound to evoke recognition.

Immerse yourself in the iconic melodies as Mamma Mia! takes the stage at the Hollywood Bowl:

3. The Addams Family

• Cast: 10 roles, flexible ensemble
• What Does It Teach: It delves into themes of family values, eccentricity, and the importance of embracing one’s uniqueness.
• Licensing: Theatrical Rights Worldwide

From its inaugural staging in 2010, the Addams Family has steadily ascended the rankings of preeminent high school musicals. The rationale behind its popularity is readily discernible—the character portrayals are idiosyncratic, the musical compositions exude an air of amusement, and the stage designs emanate a charmingly macabre ambiance. This production aptly suits the period surrounding Halloween, aligning with the thematic aura; however, its suitability extends across all seasons.

Step into the delightfully eccentric world of The Addams Family musical with this scene:

4. Into the Woods

• Cast: 18 roles, no ensemble
• What Does It Teach: A complex musical intertwining familiar fairy tales with lessons about consequences, morality, and the pursuit of happiness.
• Licensing: Music Theatre International

Into the Woods constitutes a timeless musical composition that accommodates an expansive assembly of adept and fanciful thespians. Given its substantial contingent of principal roles and its potential execution as an ensemble-centric production, this musical is ideally suited for a cast replete with luminaries. The presence of universally recognizable figures—Little Red Riding Hood, Cinderella, and Rapunzel—within the narrative ensures that even those unacquainted with the musical will identify these familiar personas.

Venture into the intricate storytelling of Into the Woods through this engaging performance snippet:

5. The Wizard of Oz

• Cast: 8 roles, 16 featured, large ensemble
• What Does It Teach: The classic story focuses on friendship, bravery, self-discovery, and the importance of home.
• Licensing: Concord Theatricals

Prepare for the recurring refrain of “there’s no place like home,” as this endearing expression becomes an auditory fixture. Since the release of The Wizard of Oz film in 1939, this charming musical has secured its position as an enduring American classic. Anticipate a surge in ticket purchases from local families, driven by the undeniable allure of witnessing the live portrayal of Dorothy and the Cowardly Lion. High school students exhibit a fondness for this production, fueled in part by the resonance of its iconic personages and in part due to the inherent enjoyment it offers. Moreover, in regions adhering to conservative values, the impeccably virtuous storyline remains unobjectionable.

Follow the Yellow Brick Road to the mesmerizing realm of The Wizard of Oz with this captivating excerpt:

6. The Sound of Music

• Cast: 11 roles, 7 children, flexible ensemble
• What Does It Teach: Themes include family, love, music, and the courage to stand up for one’s beliefs in challenging times.
• Licensing: Concord Theatricals

The Sound of Music emerges as a prime choice for high school musical endeavors. It encompasses a comprehensive spectrum: an extensive ensemble, endearing child characters, revered musical compositions, and a subtle infusion of somber undertones that sustains intrigue. The inclusion of nuns in the narrative further adds a layer of engagement, with the habit attire lending an element of enjoyment to chorus roles. If the theater program’s financial prospects for forthcoming productions necessitate bolstering, the adoption of this quintessential Rodgers and Hammerstein creation is poised to precipitate a surge in ticket transactions. 

Embark on a melodious journey with The Sound of Music showcased in this breathtaking performance:

7. Annie

• Cast: 8 roles, flexible ensemble
• What Does It Teach: It’s about hope, resilience, the importance of family, and how even a young girl can make a difference.
• Licensing: Music Theatre International

Annie stands among the musicals universally recognized—a production that embodies a family-oriented essence, rendering it a pragmatic selection in locales adhering to conservative inclinations. Its suitability extends to burgeoning high school drama departments and programs spanning middle and elementary school levels. Moreover, when the task at hand entails ticket sales, Annie undoubtedly emerges as a guaranteed success.

Relive the magic of Annie as it graces the Tony Awards stage in this standout moment:

8. High School Musical

• Cast: 11 leads, large ensemble
• What Does It Teach: The musical highlights self-expression, breaking stereotypes, and following your passion.
• Licensing: Music Theatre International

Originating as a 2006 Disney film, High School Musical emerges as an enjoyable musical option tailored for high school participants. The prospect of portraying characters of their own age is likely to captivate the students’ interest. It’s conceivable to involve a few educators as well, enlisting their participation to enact roles such as Ms. Darbus and Coach Bolton. The ensemble setup proves adaptable, accommodating the inclusion of an expansive number of performers within the grand song-and-dance sequences as desired.

Dive into the infectious energy of High School Musical with this vibrant performance sequence:

9. Carrie

• Cast: 14 leads
• What Does It Teach: Explores themes of bullying, power, and the consequences of cruelty.
• Licensing: Concord Theatricals

A high school musical rooted in a horror narrative may initially appear unsettling, and indeed, it embodies a somber disposition. Carrie, depicted as a pariah within the confines of a stringent religious household, becomes the target of a malicious prom prank. In retaliation, she harnesses her latent telekinetic abilities, subsequently instigating chaos. Although this selection might encounter resistance from school authorities, it presents an enlightening perspective, resonating with the prevailing issue of bullying.

Experience the dramatic intensity of Carrie with this compelling performance glimpse:

10. Heathers (The Teen Edition)

• Cast: 17 leads
• What Does It Teach: Touches on the dark sides of high school life, addressing issues like peer pressure, identity, and the consequences of actions.
• Licensing: Concord Theatricals

The query that arises pertains to the appropriateness of Heathers the Musical within a high school context. The appropriateness is contingent on the individual circumstances of each high school. The unaltered iteration is bound to trigger controversies. Acknowledging this, the creators have introduced an adolescent edition that aligns with the sensibilities of high school performers. The absence of elements warranting an R rating is not to the detriment of the musical; the adapted rendition retains exceptional musical compositions, an abundance of substantial characters for distribution, and imparts pertinent lessons pertaining to bullying and inclusivity, tailored for the high school milieu.

Get a glimpse into the captivating world of Heathers (The Teen Edition) with this powerful scene:

11. Hairspray

• Cast: 11 leads, large ensemble
• What Does It Teach: Addresses racial integration, body positivity, and standing up against discrimination.
• Licensing: Music Theatre International

The narrative is familiar: Tracy Turnblad, a high school student, nurtures an ardent aspiration to secure a place as a dancer on the Corny Collins Show. Upon achieving this aspiration, she harnesses her newfound renown to confront the pervasive segregation entrenched within her 1960s community. The production boasts exceptional dance sequences, visually captivating attire, and a narrative nucleus focused on inclusivity—a narrative that resonates harmoniously within high school settings. This resonance is particularly profound amidst the current backdrop of challenges such as book banning and akin transgressions. Notably, adherence to the original casting is imperative; the MTI licensing agreement now mandates this stipulation.

Feel the rhythm and energy of Hairspray as Ariana Grande and Dove Cameron take the stage:

12. Bring It On

• Cast: 12 leads, large ensemble
• What Does It Teach: Focuses on teamwork, friendship, and challenging stereotypes.
• Licensing: Music Theatre International

Replete with the acerbic amusement and exuberant feats reminiscent of the 2000 film, Bring It On The Musical is characterized by a predominantly female ensemble. Evidently, the choreographic demands are substantial, presenting an engaging avenue for participation by your high school’s cheerleading squad. Moreover, the portrayal of this quintessential high school narrative on stage is poised to elicit a sense of nostalgia and delight among Millennial parents.

Be swept away by the exhilarating dance moves of Bring It On in this electrifying Tony Awards performance:

13. 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

• Cast: 9 roles
• What Does It Teach: Deals with competition, self-esteem, and the different ways people cope with stress.
• Licensing: Music Theatre International

While the narrative transpires within a middle school milieu, the subsequent rationale substantiates our endorsement of its suitability as an exceptional musical for high school cohorts. The endeavor mandates the identification of several proficient vocalists, with specific emphasis on the role of Olive Ostrovsky, known for her intricate vocal passages. The cast constellation encompasses two adult personas, which can be effectively assigned to student participants. Conversely, it offers an engaging avenue to enlist a choir and a gym teacher, with the caveat that the female performer should be adequately equipped for vocal performance. A vigilant auditioning process, particularly attentive to the rendition of “Chip’s Lament,” assumes prominence as it is the composition most likely to influence the approval process.

Join the quirky charm of the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee through this delightful snippet:

14. Little Women

• Cast: 6 female, 3-4 male
• What Does It Teach: Centers around sisterhood, ambition, and the challenges and joys of growing up.
• Licensing: Music Theater International

Can wholesomeness be epitomized more profoundly than in Little Women? For those seeking a production that navigates the approval process with ease—even within the most conservative locales—this musical holds the solution. Drawing from the eponymous novel by Louisa May Alcott, the narrative encapsulates the chronicles of the revered March family. The lion’s share of pivotal roles is ascribed to female characters, while male love interests necessitate casting a few actors accordingly. The juxtaposition of period attires with contemporary melodies—further elevated by the musical complexities that present a gratifying challenge to your high school’s pit ensemble—renders Little Women an enriching venture for all involved.

Delve into the heartwarming essence of Little Women as it comes alive in this endearing performance:

15. My Fair Lady

• Cast: 10 principal, flexible ensemble
• What Does It Teach: Explores issues of social class, identity, and personal transformation.
• Licensing: Concord Theatricals

My Fair Lady seamlessly amalgamates elements of romance, humor, and enduring musical compositions. The narrative traverses the themes of social strata, individuality, and the metamorphic influence of education, affording ample substance for high school performers to excavate and render theatrically. Endowed with memorable musical numbers, astute dialogues, and engrossing personages, My Fair Lady extends a compelling and intellectually stimulating theatrical encounter for high school participants.

Bask in the elegance of My Fair Lady as it graces the Tony Awards stage in this captivating excerpt:

16. Mean Girls

• Cast: 10 principal, flexible ensemble
• What Does It Teach: Addresses the effects of gossip, cliques, and the importance of kindness.
• Licensing: Music Theater International

Mean Girls stands as a remarkable rarity within the realm of musicals, capable of eliciting satisfaction from both high school pupils and their parental counterparts. Parents possess a recollection of the 2004 Mean Girls movie, while students exhibit an affinity for the more recent Broadway rendition. The Mean Girls touring ensemble’s robust TikTok presence significantly contributes to augmenting awareness. The narrative intricacies are replete with instructive insights pertaining to themes such as bullying, social cliques, and the virtue of embracing those with dissimilarities. It’s noteworthy that the high school iteration offers an appended list of authorized modifications, a pragmatic tool for the customization of the musical to align with the distinct requisites of your community.

Explore the satirical brilliance of Mean Girls through this standout performance moment:

17. Guys and Dolls

• Cast: 12 roles, medium-large ensemble
• What Does It Teach: Deals with gambling, love, and redemption.
• Licensing: Music Theatre International

Guys and Dolls secures its status among the most renowned musical productions in history. The narrative’s trajectory revolves around the exploits of two New York City gamblers, encompassing a spectrum of romantic entanglements, meticulous preparations for an extravagant craps game, and a deft evasion of law enforcement. The ensemble required is substantial, and the script introduces an unbroken sequence of remarkable musical interludes. The renditions of “Luck Be a Lady” and “Sit Down, You’re Rocking the Boat” notably culminate in eliciting a rousing response, compelling the audience to rise to their feet.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Guys and Dolls with this engaging performance scene:

18. Grease

• Cast: 17 leads, large ensemble
• What Does It Teach: Explores teenage rebellion, identity, and finding one’s place.
• Licensing: Concord Theatricals

Grease asserts its position as a paramount contender among the paramount high school musicals throughout history. The narrative, chronicling the escapades of Danny, Sandy, and their companions, exudes an air of mirth and buoyancy, concealing a notable layer of profound introspection. High school students forge a connection with the production, primarily attributed to its respectful treatment of the tangible challenges they encounter and the enduring repercussions linked to their choices. Notably, the director is presented with an invaluable pedagogical opportunity encapsulated within the plot: Is it judicious to undertake a transformation of one’s identity for the sake of a romantic entanglement?

Relive the classic nostalgia of Grease through this electrifying performance snippet:

19. Mary Poppins

• Cast: 16 roles, flexible ensemble
• What Does It Teach: Touches on family dynamics, imagination, and learning life lessons.
• Licensing: Music Theatre International

Derived from the 1964 film featuring Julie Andrews and the literary works by P.L. Travers, Mary Poppins emerges as a splendid and universally gratifying musical suitable for diverse age groups. The stage rendition flourishes optimally within the milieu of a sizable high school theater program equipped with substantial resources. The production’s requisites, spanning set design, choreography, staging intricacies, and costume preparation, command notable attention. A particularly noteworthy facet pertains to the presence of several prominent female roles, rendering this musical especially apt for high schools boasting accomplished female performers.

Soar through the enchanting skies of Mary Poppins in this captivating Broadway performance:

20. Once Upon a Mattress

• Cast: 11 roles, flexible ensemble
• What Does It Teach: A comedic take on traditional fairy tales, focusing on self-assurance and the acceptance of others.
• Licensing: Concord Theatricals

Once Upon a Mattress presents a whimsical and idiosyncratic interpretation of the fairy tale musical genre. Originally introduced on Broadway in 1959, the production draws inspiration from the narrative of “The Princess and the Pea.” The central princess, Winnifred the Woebegone, diverges remarkably from the archetype of a helpless damsel, asserting her autonomy. This musical amalgamates uproarious exchanges and enchanting musical compositions, thereby constituting an engaging trial for fledgling actors. Notably, the musical score is attributed to Mary Rodgers, the daughter of the renowned Richard Rodgers.

Embark on a whimsical journey with Once Upon a Mattress as showcased in this delightful scene:

21. Bye Bye Birdie

• Cast: 11 roles, 11 featured roles, very large ensemble
• What Does It Teach: Explores the allure of fame, teenage rebellion, and the generational gap.
• Licensing: Concord Theatricals

In quest of a musical resonating with a 1950s ambiance akin to Grease? Look no further than Bye Bye Birdie, a befitting selection. The storyline centers around rock star Conrad Birdie’s visit to a provincial town, just prior to his military deployment, in order to meet high school pupil Kim MacAfee. The narrative is replete with poodle skirts and irresistibly endearing musical compositions, indicating its readiness for a revival. The script itself encompasses an array of substantial principal and featured roles, rendering it an ideal candidate for an extensive drama department.

Get a glimpse of the infectious dance scene from Bye Bye Birdie in this exhilarating performance:

22. Legally Blonde

• Cast: 7 roles, flexible ensemble
• What Does It Teach: Addresses stereotypes, self-discovery, and determination.
• Licensing: Music Theater International

Legally Blonde narrates the journey of a recent college graduate who, long subjected to misconceptions, thrives within an advanced legal education curriculum. Despite its humorous and buoyant demeanor, the musical harbors significant underlying messages and thematic elements that possess the potential to evoke unexpected resonance within your student community.

Immerse yourself in the empowering world of Legally Blonde through this captivating musical moment:

Useful Resources

Discover additional musical options available for your students:

• Music Theater International
• Concord Theatricals
• Theatrical Rights Worldwide

Conclusion

Thus, the aforementioned compendium encapsulates the finest musical selections tailored to high school students. Whether one’s pursuit is for the realm of lightheartedness, humor, or the dramatization of historical occurrences, these alternatives are poised to captivate and astonish the audience. Armed with this compilation, the search for an ideal match for your drama ensemble concludes, marking the initiation of preparations for the imminent opening night.

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Simona Johnes

Simona Johnes is the visionary being the creation of our project. Johnes spent much of her career in the classroom working with students. And, after many years in the classroom, Johnes became a principal.

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