As far as I’m concerned, Halloween isn’t just for costumes and candies. What I particularly enjoy about this day is the opportunity to explore the darker, more mysterious side of entertainment. As some of you may know by now, I am a Broadway enthusiast. Musicals are one of the most powerful forms of entertainment since they can transport viewers to other worlds, where the willing suspension of disbelief allows everyone watching to be completely immersed into the reality portrayed.
In this post, I would like to present the top ten musicals that will send shivers down your spine and have you tapping to eerie tunes. From tales of witches and ghosts to the more macabre and mysterious settings, these musicals embrace the spirit of this special day in all its spooky glory.

10) Evil Dead: The Musical

Based on the cult horror film series, it is a comedic stage production that serves as a parody. It combines elements of the show with humor, music and audience interaction, creating a unique experience for fans of both horror and comedy. The musical has gained a great following and it is known for its campy, over-the-top and gory fun, telling the story of a group of friends that accidentally conjure evil spirits in a cabin in the woods. The exaggerated violence and homage to the horror genre create a fantastic atmosphere that is perfect for a Halloween night.

9) Carrie: The Musical

This musical is a stage production based on Stephen King's novel Carrie. It tells the story of Carrie White, a shy and bullied teenager with telekinetic powers. The musical explores her struggles with her overbearing, religiously fanatic mother and her attempts to fit in at school. As tensions build, a tragic and climactic event unfolds, showcasing themes of power, bullying, and the consequences of cruelty. The musical combines elements of horror and drama with a memorable score to create a compelling and emotionally charged experience, which makes it a suitable Halloween choice.

8) Wicked

Wicked is a hit Broadway musical that serves as a prequel to L. Frank Baum's classic story, The Wizard of Oz. It delves into the backstory of two iconic characters, Glinda the Good Witch and Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West. The musical explores their unlikely friendship, the complex world of Oz and how they become the characters we know from the original story. Wicked is a spellbinding tale of friendship, power, and the blurred lines between good and wicked, all set to a captivating score and stunning stage production. The two witches as main characters and the grand spectacle make it an awesome choice for Halloween.

7) The Rocky Horror Show

The Rocky Horror Show is a cult classic rock musical that first premiered in 1973. Created by Richard O'Brien, it's a campy and outrageous story that parodies science fiction and horror B-movies. The plot revolves around a young couple, Brad and Janet, who find themselves in a strange mansion inhabited by eccentric characters, including Dr. Frank-N-Furter, a mad scientist, and his creation, Rocky Horror. The musical is known for its interactive and participatory nature, with audiences often dressing up as characters, shouting lines, and throwing props during the performance. It features catchy songs like Time Warp and it has become a beloved and iconic part of pop culture, celebrated for its flamboyant characters, cross-dressing, and themes of sexual liberation. With its iconic midnight screenings and themes of transgression, it’s a Halloween tradition for many.

6) Little Shop of Horrors

Little Shop of Horrors is a musical comedy that combines elements of horror and science fiction. It tells the story of Seymour Krelborn, a flower shop assistant who discovers a mysterious and unusual plant that he names Audrey II, after his coworker and crush, Audrey. The plant, however, has a peculiar appetite for human blood and a thirst for world domination. The musical's plot revolves around Seymour's attempts to keep Audrey II fed while dealing with its increasingly dangerous demands. It features a catchy score and it is known for its dark humor and memorable characters. Little Shop of Horrors has been a popular and enduring production, known for its mix of horror, comedy, and memorable songs like Suddenly, Seymour and Feed Me (Git It). The plant’s insatiable hunger and darkly comedic premise make it a Halloween favorite.

5) The Addams Family

The Addams Family is a musical comedy based on the eccentric and macabre Addams family. The story follows their encounter with a normal family when their daughter Wednesday falls in love, leading to humorous and bizarre situations. It's known for its dark humor, catchy songs, and quirky characters. It’s a light-hearted and comically spooky musical that is perfect for Halloween entertainment.

4) Into The Woods

Into the Woods is a musical by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine that intertwines classic fairy tales like Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, and Rapunzel. The story follows the characters as they venture into the woods to fulfil their wishes but face unexpected consequences. The musical explores themes of morality, consequences, and the complexity of happily ever after. The dark and cautionary undertones of classic fairy tales make this a thought-provoking option fo Halloween.

3) Jekyll & Hyde

Jekyll and Hyde is a musical adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's novella Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. The story centers on Dr. Henry Jekyll, a scientist who creates a potion that unleashes his dark and violent alter ego, Mr. Hyde. The musical delves into themes of duality, morality, and the consequences of one's actions. This musical is a psychological horror and it serves as a thorough exploration of the duality of human nature. All these elements give the show a dark and unsettling atmosphere.

2) The Phantom of the Opera

The Phantom of the Opera is a renowned musical composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber. It tells the haunting tale of a disfigured musical genius known as the Phantom who resides beneath the Paris Opera House. Obsessed with a talented young soprano, Christine Daaé, he tutors her in secret, ultimately leading to a tragic love story filled with mystery, romance, and dramatic music. The eerie underground lair of the Phantom, the iconic mask and the mysterious ambiance make this musical a timeless favorite for Halloween.

1) Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street is a dark and macabre musical by Stephen Sondheim. The story follows Sweeney Todd, a vengeful barber who seeks retribution against those who wronged him, while Mrs. Lovett, his accomplice, turns the victims into meat pies. The musical explores themes of revenge, injustice, and moral ambiguity, offering a chilling and darkly comedic experience. Offering a gruesome journey into London’s underworld, a gory plot and an insight into Sweeney Todd’s thirst for revenge make this a perfect Halloween musical.

These musicals offer a diverse range of dark and eerie experiences, from romantic Gothic tales to macabre comedies. Whether you’re seeking a spooky thriller or a wickedly funny musical, this list has something for everyone to enjoy during this season. So, dim the lights, turn up the volume and let these show tunes set the frightening stage for your Halloween festivities.