Elton John Musicals: A History of Stage Shows

Broadway's The Palace Theatre welcomes back Elton John as the composer of the new musical Tammy Faye with lyrics by Jake Shears, a book by James Graham, and direction by Rupert Goold. It is based on the true story of evangelist Tammy Faye Bakker, wife to pastor Jim Bakker, who aided her husband in creating a nationwide congregation with the rise of cable television. The musical dives into the drama behind the scenes as this charismatic woman and her husband attract followers by putting the “fun back in faith.” The musical began in the London theatre scene, starring Katie Brayben and Andrew Rannells.

Katie Brayden will be reprising her role on Broadway, joined by Christian Boyle and Michael Cerveris. Previews for the new Broadway musical Tammy Faye will begin this coming October.

This October London’s Dominion Theatre will debut the new The Devil Wears Prada musical based on the bestselling novel by Lauren Weisberger and the 2006 blockbuster film, which starred Anne Hathaway as Andy and Meryl Streep as Miranda Priestly. The story follows a fresh college graduate with dreams of being a journalist; however, school didn’t prepare her for the challenges she’ll face when she lands an assistant job for the seemingly cold blooded editor-in-chief of a hot fashion magazine. When she begins to find her stride at the magazine, her personal life takes a hit forcing her to assess her priorities.

The musical will feature a score by Elton John, lyrics by Shaina Taub, book by Kate Wetherhead, and direction & choreography by Jerry Mitchell, a three time Tony Award winner. Fans will be excited to note that the iconic role of Miranda Priestly will be played by none other than Vanessa Williams, best known for her television roles in Ugly Betty and Desperate Housewives. As her new pop song “Legs (Keep Dancing)” demonstrates, as well as being a talented actress with a knack for playing assertive women, she is still light on her feet.

Elton John and lyricist Tom Rice wrote all the songs in the 1994 Disney cartoon film, with a score by Hans Zimmer. The Lion King was adapted into a staged production in 1997, featuring additional music and lyrics by Lebo M., Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin, and Hans Zimmer; the book was written by Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi. The story follows young Simba, a lion cub next in line to be king, who embarks on a somewhat involuntary hero’s journey before returning to claim his rightful place as king of the pride.

It made its Broadway debut at the New Amsterdam Theatre and won six Tony Awards that year, including Best Musical and Best Direction of a Musical by Julie Taymor. Audiences young and old are enthralled by Taymor’s epic puppetry paired with John’s engaging music. To date, it is the third longest running show in Broadway history and the highest grossing Broadway production of all time. 

Billy Elliot: The Original Cast Recording features the vocals of the original London cast. Songs include: “The Letter,” “Merry Christmas Maggie Thatcher,” and “Electricity” as well as Elton John’s versions of all three.

Elton John and Tim Rice’s Aida Original Broadway Cast Recording won the 2001 Grammy Award for Best Musical Show Album. It features Adam Pascal, Heather Headley, and Sherie Rene Scott. Songs include: “My Strongest Suit,” “Written In The Stars,” and “Every Story Is A Love Story.”

The Lion King: Original Broadway Cast Recording features Jason Raize, Heather Headly, John Vickery, Samuel E. Wright, and Tsidii Le Loka. Songs include: “I Just Can’t Wait To Be King,” “Can You Feel The Love Tonight,” and“The Circle of Life.”