Best Comedies on Broadway

Whether you’re in New York City for the first time, a seasoned visitor, or a local looking for the perfect weekend plans, seeing a famous or brand new Broadway show is a rite of passage. Now that theater is finally back in the city, it’s never been easier to catch a show. But how do you know what's even playing? And will I be in the mood for a certain type of show? These are the questions we’ll answer in this comprehensive guide to the comedies currently lighting up the stage. Whether it’s family-friendly showstoppers to raunchy laugh-out-loud plays and lovable dramedies that are perfect for date night entertainment, there’s something on Broadway for everyone, and we’ll give you an inside look into the best Broadway comedies for you.

Family-Friendly Comedies on Broadway

Everyone remembers their first Broadway show. For some of us, it doesn't happen until we’re adults, but a lucky number of us get to see shows as children. I remember my first Broadway show was the 2007 production of Mel Brooks's Young Frankenstein. I was eight and fell in love with Broadway theatre, but my parents were less in love with how many adult questions I had leaving the theater. The truth is not every Broadway show is appropriate for all ages. However, these shows are guaranteed fun for the whole family and a lifetime of lasting memories…

& Juliet

& Juliet has a book David West Read, music by Max Martin, direction by Luke Sheppard, and reimagines Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet by imagining what would happen if Juliet decided not to end it all over Romeo. This musical gives her a fresh start and a second chance and features pop songs like “Roar,” “Since U Been Gone,” “Baby One More Time,” and “Larger Than Life.”

Aladdin

Aladdin is the staged version of the Disney classic. This musical brings all the magic of the movies to live theater. Get immersed in the middle eastern city of Agrabah as Aladdin finds the Genie and discovers a shining, shimmering, splendid world of life with Princess Jasmine. Disney spares no expense to provide you and your family with a dazzling display of a kingdom of riches and magical wishes. With music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice, it's sure to leave the whole family smiling. If you’re a Disney fanatic, you also don’t want to miss The Lion King on Broadway. (Though if you’re looking for something more comedic, we recommend you start with Aladdin.)

Operation Mincemeat

Operation Mincemeat makes its U.S. debut at the Golden Theatre after a highly successful run in London, where it won the Olivier Award for Best New Musical. Created by David Cumming, Felix Hagan, Natasha Hodgson, and Zoë Roberts of the theater company SpitLip, this 1940s-set musical brings to life the incredible, true story of an audacious plan to defeat Hitler involving a stolen corpse. The Telegraph said it is “the perfect mix of ingenious, silly and moving.” This musical took London by storm, and the original cast is starring in the Broadway production. Get tickets while you can!

Six: The Musical

Six: The Musical first made a splash across the pond at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Since coming to America, it's seen massive success. This show follows the six wives of Henry VIII as they reclaim the story of their lives. This all-female performance is accompanied by an all-female rock band and high-energy performances. It's the perfect show to revel in the badassery of women reclaiming their voice against a man. According to the show’s FAQ page, the recommended age is anyone ten years and up.

Wicked

Wicked is a musical theater staple that recently celebrated its 15th year on Broadway. It follows the unlikely friendship between Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, and the Good Witch Glinda as they meet at Shiz University. While the novel the musical is based on was not intended for children, the staged version is fun for all ages. This is a story about the power of female friendship and how embracing oneself can be all it takes for one to defy gravity.

Adult Comedy on Broadway

Since Disney came to town, Broadway has been considered a family-friendly event. However, the Great White Way has always been a haven for adult productions. These are the productions that infuse dark humor to help you swallow their point. The kind of humor that will make you blush and then jump out of your seat laughing. These shows might make you uncomfortable sitting next to your grandma or your mom if she isn't cool.

Oh, Mary!

Oh, Mary!, written by Cole Escola and directed by Sam Pinkleton, plays at the Lyceum Theatre after a sold-out run off-Broadway at the Lucille Lortel Theatre. Come see Mary Todd Lincoln, an aspiring cabaret star struggling with alcohol and stifled by her husband, President Abraham Lincoln. This hilarious show has taken New York by storm. Time Out New York called it, “the funniest play in years” and The New York Times called it, “There’s little else in New York Theater right now quite as surprising as ‘Oh, Mary!’…it’s a bit taken to an 80-minute extreme that’s silly, nasty, tasteless, and, in the end good theater…you’ll be losing your mind with joy.”

The Book of Mormon

The Book of Mormon: This original comedy has made Broadway audiences bellow with laughter for over ten years. Book of Mormon took home nine Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Score, and Best Book. It also won the Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album. The show follows two Latter-Day missionaries who are sent to Uganda to spread the word of God. From the creative minds of South Park and music from Robert Lopez ( Frozen, Coco, and Frozen 2) this musical takes you on a delightfully dirty journey of faith. You can also catch this show on its national tour.

The Rocky Horror Show

The Rocky Horror Show, with book, music, and lyrics by Richard O’Brien, plays at Studio 54 with direction from Sam Pinkleton. Led by Luke Evans as Frank-N-Furter, the starry cast also includes Rachel Dratch, Juliette Lewis, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, and Stephanie Hsu. When Brad and Janet seek shelter from a storm, they meet an unexpected cast of characters, both irresistible and dangers. Featuring the songs “Sweet Transvestite,” “Dammit Janet,” and “Time Warp!”

Date Night Comedy on Broadway

This list includes romantic comedies and dramedies that make you laugh as you cry. These shows touch your heart as well as your mind. They leave a lasting impression that you can discuss over post-show drinks near Times Square or a slice of world-famous Junior's cheesecake.

860

Comedy legend Billy Crystal returns to Broadway this October with 860, a deeply personal new solo show that blends his signature humor with heartfelt storytelling. Named after the California home Crystal lost in the Palisades fires, the production reflects on family, friends, and the meaning of home. One of America’s most recognizable comedians and entertainers, Crystal has previously been seen on Broadway in his acclaimed autobiographical shows 700 Sundays and Mr. Saturday Night.

Chicago

Chicago: If you want to take in a piece of Broadway history, look no further than Chicago. Playbill declares this the longest-running American musical in Broadway history, celebrating twenty-five years on the Great White Way. Winner of the 1996 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical and set in the glittering era of the roaring twenties, Chicago follows two women who meet in an unlikely place, a women's prison. It's a story about fame, passion, and the razzle-dazzle stardom. With breathtaking dance numbers, this musical is a shot of adrenaline.

Just In Time

Just In Time debuts at the Circle in the Square Theatre. Directed by Alex Timbers, the musical will feature iconic hits such as “Mack the Knife,” “Splish Splash,” and “Beyond the Sea.” Chronicling the remarkable life and career of Bobby Darin, who accomplished so much in his brief time, the show is captivating Broadway audiences.

Maybe Happy Ending

Maybe Happy Ending by Will Aronson and Hue Park plays at the Belasco Theatre in a production directed by Michael Arden. This cutting-edge musical follows two Helperbots in Seoul, living in a kind of retirement home for out-of-date robots. When Oliver and Claire meet, what starts as a simple request soon leads to epic adventure and a surprising and beautiful love story. After hit productions in Korea, Japan, and Atlanta, it’s ready to delight audiences in New York City!

Schmigadoon!

Schmigadoon! arrives on Broadway at the Nederlander Theatre, bringing the Emmy-winning TV series to the stage in a brand-new musical adaptation. Featuring a book, music, and lyrics by Cinco Paul, the show playfully parodies the style and spirit of Golden Age Broadway musicals while telling an original, romantic story. The production stars Alex Brightman and Sarah Chase and is directed and choreographed by Christopher Gattelli, the Tony-winning artist behind the Broadway smash Death Becomes Her. Fans of the television series will find plenty to love in this theatrical version, which blends clever comedy, classic musical theatre influences, and genuine heart for a joyful night at the theatre.

Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New York

Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New York is an offbeat comedy with rapid-fire dialogue, big laughs, and a distinctly New York sense of humor. Following a British man in New York for the first time and a put-upon sister of a busy bride, this two-hander charmed audiences in its hit run in the UK and is now delighting crowds on Broadway. Come fall in love with it yourself!

Broadway Comedies Coming Soon

Blue Man Group: A New Holiday Surprise

Get ready for a holiday experience unlike any other with Blue Man Group: A New Holiday Surprise! Blending outrageous comedy, infectious music, eye-popping visuals, and the group’s signature unconventional antics, this high-energy spectacle puts a delightfully unexpected spin on the holiday season. It’s a festive treat for all ages that marches to the beat of its own drum! Coming to the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre November 12, 2026.

Much Ado About Nothing

A new production of Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing comes to the Winter Garden Theatre starting October 31, 2026 after a hit run in London. This romantic comedy stars Hayley Atwell and Tom Hiddleston as the fiercely independent Beatrice and the quick-tongued Benedick, whose war of words conceals a surprising romantic spark. Jamie Lloyd directs this classic that is already proving popular with audiences. The Guardian called the West End production, “absolutely wonderful…you would have to be a god of stone not to be seduced by its wacky winter joy.”

Damn Yankees

Step up to the plate for Damn Yankees, the devilishly delightful musical comedy that proves you should be careful what you wish for. When a frustrated baseball fan makes a deal with the Devil to help his beloved team, he starts a chain reaction of events he could never anticipate. Starring Neil Patrick Harris, this classic Broadway favorite serves up a winning combination of show-stopping musical numbers, laugh-out-loud comedy, irresistible romance, and all-American baseball spirit. Coming to the Marquis Theatre in March 2027!

Ready for the show? Buy those tickets at a discount.

On Broadway, families and adults alike can unwind and laugh along with some of the world’s best stage actors. There’s something for everyone as the curtain comes up on one of the most famous NYC activities. Looking to buy a ticket for the best Broadway shows? Learn more by reading our article about Discount Broadway Tickets to find out how to get the best deals.