Which high school musicals to do will create the most memorable and successful performances for your drama program?
I’ve found that choosing the right high school musicals to do can make or break your theater season. These amazing shows offer something perfect for every school’s needs, budget, and student abilities.
The best high school musicals strike a balance between entertainment value and educational opportunities for young performers.
I believe these carefully selected productions will help students grow while creating a mystical experience for their audiences.
High School Musicals to Do: Family-Friendly Shows
I’ve chosen wholesome musicals that parents and children can enjoy together at school performances.
These productions feature Disney favorites and classic stories, creating magical experiences for every audience member.
1. The Addams Family
This fun and spooky musical follows the creepy Addams clan as Wednesday falls in love with a normal boy.
Chaos follows when both families meet for dinner, forcing everyone to face secrets and truths in a strange but loving way.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 15–25 actors with strong roles for ensemble and leads.
- Difficulty level: Moderate emphasis on character acting and group vocals.
2. Mamma Mia!
Set on a sunny Greek island, this musical tells the story of a girl who invites three men to her wedding, hoping to find out who her dad is. With fun songs by ABBA, it’s full of laughs, surprises, and heartwarming moments.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 20–35 performers with featured roles and lively chorus numbers.
- Difficulty level: Moderate, requires strong vocals and simple dance numbers.
3. Into the Woods
This musical brings fairy tale characters together in one story. Their wishes come true, but not without a bit of trouble.
With a clever script and beautiful music, it finds what happens after “happily ever after” and teaches lessons about choices, family, and growing up.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 12–20 performers with flexible ensemble parts.
- Difficulty level: Hard, complex music and layered dialogue.
4. Little Shop of Horrors
In this musical, a nerdy flower shop worker finds a strange plant that feeds on blood. As the plant grows, so does the chaos.
With catchy songs and dark comedy, the show blends horror and humor in a fun and weird way.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 8–12 actors with strong leads and a dynamic trio.
- Difficulty level: Moderate catchy tunes with comedic timing needed.
5. Beauty and the Beast
A tale of kindness and love, this musical tells the story of a girl who finds friendship in a mystical castle.
With lively characters, powerful songs, and beautiful costumes, it shows how true beauty is found on the inside.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 25–40 performers with ensemble, villagers, and supernatural characters.
- Difficulty level: Moderate, balanced vocals, dance, and acting.
6. The Little Mermaid
Join Ariel, a curious mermaid who dreams of life on land. She makes a risky deal to become human and find love, facing obstacles along the way.
Filled with bright songs and underwater wonder, this musical brings ocean charm to the stage.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 25–35 roles including sea creatures, palace folk, and chorus.
- Difficulty level: Moderate, some challenging solos and movement.
7. The SpongeBob Musical
When Bikini Bottom faces a disaster, SpongeBob and his friends try to save the day with teamwork and courage.
Packed with energy, laughs, and original songs, this musical shows how even the most unlikely hero can make a big difference.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 25–40 actors with flexible casting and unique characters.
- Difficulty level: Moderately high energy and bold character acting.
8. Chicago: Teen Edition
Two women in the 1920s, accused of murder, use their imprisonment to chase fame. With jazz music and sharp moves, this show media, lies, and stardom in a flashy, stylish way that keeps things bold and snappy for a teen audience.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 15–25 actors with strong leads and featured dancers.
- Difficulty level: Hard stylized movement and bold vocals required.
9. Legally Blonde
Elle Woods goes from fashion student to law school standout to prove she’s more than people think.
With upbeat songs and lots of spirit, this musical mixes comedy and empowerment, showing that being yourself is the smartest thing you can do.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 25–35 actors with fun chorus roles and lead parts.
- Difficulty level: Moderate energetic dance and expressive acting.
10. Mean Girls: High School Version
Cady Heron enters a new high school ruled by “The Plastics,” a trio of popular girls. She learns the hard way how gossip, popularity, and kindness mix. With witty songs and fun drama, this musical shows why staying true matters.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 25–35 roles, including many featured characters.
- Difficulty level: Moderate modern choreography and comedic delivery.
11. Grease
At Rydell High, summer romance meets school drama as Danny and Sandy face peer pressure and changing feelings.
With its 1950s charm, dance numbers, and iconic songs, this classic musical surveys teenage friendships, style, and the complexities of growing up.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 20–30 roles with a small ensemble and many duets.
- Difficulty level: Easy fun dance and simple harmonies.
12. High School Musical
Basketball meets drama club when Troy and Gabriella find their love for singing. With catchy tunes and high school fun, this show celebrates being yourself, trying new things, and breaking out of your comfort zone.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 30–45 performers with many ensemble numbers.
- Difficulty level: Easy pop-style songs and simple scenes.
13. Carrie the Musical
Carrie is an outcast with a strict mother and secret powers. After being humiliated at prom, she unleashes destruction.
This musical mixes suspense, sadness, and strong emotions, telling a tragic story with haunting music and a powerful message.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 15–25 performers with strong ensemble vocals.
- Difficulty level: Hard emotional depth and strong vocals needed.
14. Heathers: Teen Edition
High school is a battlefield in this edgy musical about a girl who gets tangled up with the wrong crowd.
It mixes dark humor, drama, and catchy tunes while tackling teen issues with bold storytelling and unforgettable characters.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 15–25 actors with powerful solos and group scenes.
- Difficulty level: Hard, mature themes and stylized vocals.
15. School of Rock
When a struggling musician pretends to be a teacher, he turns a class of kids into a rock band. With high-energy songs and funny moments, this show is about passion, teamwork, and letting kids shine through music.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 25–35 with child musicians, bandmates, and adults.
- Difficulty level: Moderate, live instruments and rock-style singing.
16. 13
Evan is about to turn 13 and wants to fit in at his new school before his bar mitzvah. This musical shares his ups and downs in friendship, family, and growing up, all through fun songs and honest feelings.
- Appropriate age: Pre-teen
- Cast size: 13 actors, all played by teens or preteens.
- Difficulty level: Moderate teen vocals and relatable acting.
17. Shrek: The Musical
Shrek is a grumpy ogre who ends up on a journey to rescue a princess. Along the way, he learns about the importance of friendship, love, and self-acceptance. This fun show is packed with jokes, heart, and fairy tale fun.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 25–40 performers with storybook and fantasy roles.
- Difficulty level: Moderate, bold expressions and comedic timing.
18. Beetlejuice
A lively ghost helps a teenage girl deal with her family and life after loss. It’s full of wild humor, spooky surprises, and fast-paced fun. The story combines heart and laughter in a way that’s perfect for bold stage lovers.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 20–30 performers with high-energy ensemble scenes.
- Difficulty level: Hard, fast-paced scenes with quirky humor.
19. The Wizard of Oz
Dorothy travels through a magical land to return home, meeting friends and facing challenges along the way on the yellow brick road.
This classic story includes adventure, colorful characters, and timeless songs that delight kids and adults alike.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 25–40 performers, including townsfolk, creatures, and leads.
- Difficulty level: Easy classic story with gentle choreography.
20. The Sound of Music
In the hills of Austria, a kind woman becomes a nanny for a family and brings music into their lives.
With beautiful songs and touching moments, this musical shows how love, family, and courage can change everything.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 15–30 roles, including adults and several children.
- Difficulty level: Moderate to strong vocals and heartfelt moments.
21. Freaky Friday
When a mom and daughter magically swap bodies, their crazy day helps them understand each other better.
This musical has fun moments, catchy tunes, and heartfelt lessons about love, growing up, and seeing life through someone else’s eyes.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 20–30 roles including students, parents, and ensemble.
- Difficulty level: Moderate emotional scenes and pop-style vocals.
22. Saturday Night Fever
This disco-filled show follows Tony Manero, a young man seeking to escape his mundane daily life through dance.
Full of ‘70s music, flashy moves, and personal struggles, this musical shines with energy and emotional depth.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 25–40 performers with a strong dance ensemble.
- Difficulty level: Hard challenging choreography and mature themes.
23. You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown
This lighthearted musical brings the Peanuts gang to life as they know childhood, friendship, and small moments that feel big. It’s cheerful, simple, and full of charm, perfect for young performers and fans of classic comic fun.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 6–10 performers with optional ensemble.
- Difficulty level: Easy, playful songs and short scenes.
24. The Boy Friend
Set in the 1920s on the French Riviera, this cheerful musical follows Polly, a wealthy girl who pretends to be poor to find love.
With dance numbers and old-fashioned charm, it’s a fun throwback to earlier musical styles.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 15–25 performers, including couples and dancers.
- Difficulty level: Moderate period dance and British accents.
25. Once Upon a Mattress
This comedic take on ‘The Princess and the Pea’ tells the story of Princess Winnifred, who’s not your typical fairy tale girl.
With silly humor, bold characters, and fun songs, it’s a crowd-pleaser that keeps things fresh.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 20–30 roles with knights, royalty, and ensemble.
- Difficulty level: Moderate comedic timing and solo vocals.
26. Catch Me If You Can
Based on a true story, this jazzy musical follows teenage con artist Frank Abagnale Jr. as he stays ahead of the FBI. It’s stylish, fast-paced, and packed with flashy songs and clever storytelling.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 25–35 performers with strong male leads and chorus.
- Difficulty level: Hard, mature themes and complex vocals.
27. Seussical
This colorful and creative musical blends many Dr. Seuss stories into one, with Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat, and more.
It’s bright, fun, and full of imagination, perfect for younger performers or family-friendly productions.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 25–45 performers with flexible casting.
- Difficulty level: Moderate energetic songs and fantasy characters.
28. Dreamgirls
This musical follows a trio of singers as they rise to fame and face the cost of success. Set in the 1960s music scene, it features powerful ballads, sharp choreography, and deep emotional moments.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 20–30 performers, including lead singers and dancers.
- Difficulty level: Hard vocal range and dramatic content.
29. Mary Poppins
A mystical nanny brings fun, order, and love to a family in London. With chimney sweeps, flying umbrellas, and heartwarming lessons, this musical combines fantasy and kindness in a way that captures audiences of all ages.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 30–40 performers with children, adults, and ensemble.
- Difficulty level: Moderate British accents and whimsical staging.
30. Rent: High School Edition
In New York City, a group of young artists struggles with love, loss, and survival. This teen-friendly version keeps the music and heart of the original while adjusting the content for schools. It’s moving, raw, and meaningful.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 15–25 performers with solos and tight ensemble work.
- Difficulty level: Hard emotional songs and contemporary themes.
31. Pippin
This bold and playful musical follows a young prince on a quest to find meaning in life. Blending circus themes and clever storytelling, it studies self-finding, performance, and identity with showy numbers and a hint of mystery.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 20–30 performers with ensemble-heavy scenes.
- Difficulty level: Hard abstract themes and precise choreography.
32. Elf: The Musical
Buddy, a human raised by elves, travels to New York to find his real dad and bring holiday cheer. Full of heart and humor, this musical is a festive favorite with fun songs and lovable characters.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 25–40 roles including elves, city folk, and family.
- Difficulty level: Moderate comedic moments and warm vocals.
33. Matilda
Matilda is a smart girl with a love of books and a magical mind. She overcomes a cruel headmistress and helps others stand up for themselves. With clever lyrics and powerful kids, this show mixes fun and strength.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 25–35 roles with children and adult characters.
- Difficulty level: Hard British dialects and emotional intensity.
34. Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella
This classic story comes to life with royal balls, mystical changeovers, and timeless lessons.
With graceful music and rich costumes, it’s a charming tale that highlights kindness, courage, and the fulfillment of dreams.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 25–40 roles, including royalty and townspeople.
- Difficulty level: Moderate traditional vocals and staging.
35. In the Heights
This musical brings to life a tight-knit Latino community in New York. With rap, salsa, and pop, it tells stories of love, dreams, and change, celebrating family and heritage in a vibrant neighborhood.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 20–30 performers with diverse roles.
- Difficulty level: Hard, fast-paced lyrics and layered storytelling.
36. Spring Awakening
Teenagers scout growing up, emotions, and truth in this raw and intense rock musical set in 19th-century Germany.
With strong messages and powerful music, it speaks to rebellion and finding one’s voice.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 13–20 performers with ensemble-driven roles.
- Difficulty level: Hard, mature content, and emotional scenes.
37. The Drowsy Chaperone
This show-within-a-show follows a musical theater fan playing his favorite record, and the musical comes to life. With quirky humor and classic style, it’s a joyful tribute to theater full of laughs and charm.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 15–25 roles, including dancers and comic leads.
- Difficulty level: Moderate comedy timing and stylized acting.
38. Urinetown
A drought-stricken city charges people to use restrooms, leading to rebellion and dark comedy.
This musical mixes satire and bold themes while poking fun at the genre itself, all through clever songs and fun chaos.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 20–30 performers with ensemble support.
- Difficulty level: Moderately clever lyrics and layered comedy.
39. Oliver!
Young orphan Oliver guides through Victorian London, meeting kind souls and dangerous crooks. With iconic songs and emotional depth, this classic musical strikes a balance between dark moments and hope, featuring unforgettable characters.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 30–45 roles with a large children’s ensemble.
- Difficulty level: Moderate accents and rich vocal work.
40. Hello, Dolly!
Lively matchmaker Dolly Levi sets love in motion while seeking her own romance. With big dance numbers, snappy dialogue, and timeless flair, it’s a celebration of joy, life, and second chances.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 25–35 roles, including townspeople and dancers.
- Difficulty level: Moderate to strong vocals and stage presence.
41. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
This upbeat musical retells the Biblical story of Joseph, incorporating pop, rock, and calypso styles. With colorful scenes and creative songs, it’s a fun and energetic journey through dreams, betrayal, and forgiveness.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 30–50 performers with chorus and featured roles.
- Difficulty level: Easy, catchy music and lighthearted tone.
42. Schoolhouse Rock Live!
Based on the TV series, this show turns learning into fun with songs about math, grammar, and history.
Perfect for young audiences, it’s a great way to blend education and performance with simple staging and lively music.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 6–15 performers with optional student ensemble.
- Difficulty level: Easy educational themes and upbeat numbers.
43. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Six quirky kids compete in a spelling bee while sharing their hopes and stories. With audience interaction, humor, and heart, it’s a unique show that celebrates imperfection and growing up.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 9–12 roles with focus on leads and improvisation.
- Difficulty level: Moderate character work and comedy timing.
44. Aida
A forbidden love between an Egyptian captain and a Nubian princess challenges loyalty, honor, and duty.
With emotionally charged songs and rich storytelling, this musical delivers romance, conflict, and power through a blend of modern music and classic drama.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 20–30 roles including royalty and ensemble.
- Difficulty level: Hard, dramatic tension, and vocal strength.
45. Ride the Cyclone
After a tragic accident, six teens face their fate in a mysterious carnival setting. Each gets one chance to tell their story. Strange, heartfelt, and funny, this show blends life, death, and dreams with a surreal twist.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 6–10 performers with distinct personalities.
- Difficulty level: Hard, dark themes and strong vocal storytelling.
46. Calvin Berger
A modern take on Cyrano de Bergerac, this show follows a witty teen with a big nose and a bigger heart. Funny, honest, and sweet, it’s a great look at insecurity, friendship, and love.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 4–8 performers with a tight ensemble feel.
- Difficulty level: Moderate humor, wordplay, and emotions.
47. Les Misérables School Edition
This powerful story of justice, love, and redemption is told through dramatic music and unforgettable characters. Specially adapted for students, it brings epic emotions and historical themes to life.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 30–50 performers with a large ensemble and featured solos.
- Difficulty level: Hard, dramatic songs and emotional delivery.
48. Disney’s Frozen JR.
Sisters Anna and Elsa learn about love, wizardry, and sisterhood in this junior version of the hit film. With favorite songs and new surprises, it’s a heartwarming story for younger performers and fans.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 20–35 roles with child ensemble and leads.
- Difficulty level: Easy, clear songs and simple stage charm.
49. Roald Dahl’s Matilda: The Musical JR.
Matilda stands up to bullies and uncovers her strength in this child-friendly version. With creative staging and empowering moments, it’s excellent for young casts ready to make a big impact.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 25–35 performers, including students and adults.
- Difficulty level: Moderate accents and young ensemble work.
50. Disney’s Newsies JR.
Inspired by real events, this junior version follows young newsboys who stand up for what’s right. With bold moves, inspiring songs, and plenty of energy, it’s perfect for kids who love a challenge.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 20–40 roles with a focus on the youth ensemble.
- Difficulty level: Moderate group dance and leadership roles.
51. Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka JR.
Willy Wonka opens his magical chocolate factory to five kids, including sweet Charlie. Full of fun, surprises, and lessons about kindness and greed, this junior version is perfect for young actors and audiences alike.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 20–30 roles with kids and flexible ensemble.
- Difficulty level: Easy, playful songs and simple scenes.
52. Annie JR.
Annie dreams of finding her family while living in an orphanage run by the nasty Miss Hannigan. With classic songs and a happy ending, this junior version is a hopeful story of courage and love.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 25–35 roles with orphans, adults, and ensemble.
- Difficulty level: Easy iconic songs and light dance.
53. Disney’s High School Musical JR.
Troy and Gabriella surprise their school when they try out for the musical. With friendship, fun, and catchy pop tunes, this junior version keeps the energy high and the message strong.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 25–40 performers with flexible casting.
- Difficulty level: Easy modern vocals and simple movement.
54. Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR.
In this shorter version, Ariel dreams of life on land and love beyond the sea. With favorite songs, supernatural creatures, and ocean fun, it’s an excellent pick for younger kids.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 20–30 roles, including sea life and palace characters.
- Difficulty level: Easy, cheerful tunes and simple staging.
55. The Music Man
Harold Hill tries to scam a town by pretending to form a boys’ band—but ends up finding love and truth. This musical is filled with marching bands, barbershop quartets, and old-time charm.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 30–50 performers with lots of town roles.
- Difficulty level: Moderate classic vocals and fast lyrics.
56. Disney’s The Lion King JR.
Young Simba runs from his past but returns to claim his place as king. With African rhythms, bright costumes, and powerful themes, this show is inspiring and exciting for all ages.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 25–40 roles, including animals and ensemble.
- Difficulty level: Moderate ensemble work and rhythm-driven songs.
57. Disney’s The Lion King KIDS
A shorter version of the beloved tale, this version keeps the heart of Simba’s journey with simplified staging and music, ideal for younger performers just starting out.
- Appropriate age: Pre-teen
- Cast size: 20–30 performers with animal characters and chorus.
- Difficulty level: Easy, short scenes and singable songs.
58. Disney’s The Jungle Book KIDS
Mowgli’s jungle adventures come alive in this playful musical full of lovable animals and jazzy tunes. It’s fast, fun, and great for early learners on stage.
- Appropriate age: Pre-teen
- Cast size: 20–30 performers with group roles and narration.
- Difficulty level: Easy, simple lyrics and group staging.
59. Once on This Island
Set in the Caribbean, this musical tells the story of a peasant girl in love with an upper-class boy. Filled with storytelling and rhythm, it’s about love, sacrifice, and hope.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 20–30 performers with a strong ensemble voice.
- Difficulty level: Moderate ensemble vocals and emotional songs.
60. Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach TYA
James travels across the ocean inside a giant peach with a group of friendly insects. This version for young audiences is full of wonder, music, and gentle adventure.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 15–25 roles, including bugs and narrators.
- Difficulty level: Easy, playful characters and whimsical songs.
61. Jane Eyre
This dark and romantic musical follows Jane as she grows up, falls in love, and faces secrets at Thornfield Hall. With haunting music and strong emotion, it tells a classic story of strength and survival.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 20–30 roles, including chorus and leads.
- Difficulty level: Hard, dramatic storytelling and deep vocals.
62. Jekyll & Hyde
Dr. Jekyll’s experiments lead to chaos when he creates a dangerous alter ego. This musical blends suspense, tragedy, and powerful ballads in a tale of good and evil.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 25–35 roles with strong vocal leads.
- Difficulty level: Hard intense emotions and mature vocals.
63. Lucky in the Rain
Set in 1920s Paris, this romantic musical tells the story of an American woman torn between her old love and new opportunities.
With jazz flair, charming characters, and stylish storytelling, it celebrates fresh starts and finding joy in the unexpected.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 15–25 performers with romantic and ensemble roles.
- Difficulty level: Moderate period music and graceful staging.
64. John & Jen
Told with just two actors, this emotional story shows family, change, and forgiveness between a sister and her younger brother over time. Small but powerful.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 2 performers with alternating time shifts.
- Difficulty level: Hard emotional scenes and vocal depth.
65. Junie B. Jones, The Musical
Follow Junie B. through school adventures, from the bus to class to friendship lessons. With energy and laughs, this show captures a child’s voice and imagination perfectly.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 20–30 roles with flexible kids’ ensemble.
- Difficulty level: Easy, light movement and comic lines.
66. Loving Repeating
Inspired by the words of Gertrude Stein, this musical studies love, language, and the power of repetition. It’s poetic, artistic, and ideal for small, reflective productions.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 6–10 performers with ensemble transitions.
- Difficulty level: Hard abstract content and non-traditional style.
67. Junie B.’s Essential Survival Guide To School
Junie shares her tips for making it through school with attitude and silliness. This upbeat show combines fun lessons with genuine emotions and quirky songs.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 20–25 performers with room for group casting.
- Difficulty level: Easy rhythmic songs and narration.
68. The Pajama Game
Workers at a pajama factory fight for fair wages while romance brews. With energetic dances and workplace humor, this classic musical is lively and fun.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 25–35 roles, including workers and bosses.
- Difficulty level: Moderate ensemble dancing and character acting.
69. Just So
Inspired by Kipling’s fables, this show blends animals, nature, and lessons into an adventurous story. With beautiful music and imaginative scenes, it sparks curiosity and creativity.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 20–30 performers with abstract animal roles.
- Difficulty level: Moderate ensemble focus and stylized staging.
70. Lady Audley’s Secret
A Victorian mystery full of lies, disguises, and suspense. This drama brings a gothic tale to life with chilling scenes and classic twists.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 15–25 roles, including gentry and staff.
- Difficulty level: Hard, serious tone and period dialogue.
71. The Last Five Years
Told with just two actors, this musical shows a couple’s relationship from two timelines—his moving forward, hers backward. Intimate and moving, with beautiful music.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 2 performers alternating solos and duets.
- Difficulty level: Hard emotional storytelling and vocal control.
72. Leap of Faith
A traveling con artist preacher hits a small town and meets his match. This gospel-infused show blends faith, trickery, and redemption with a strong message.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 20–30 performers, including a gospel choir.
- Difficulty level: Moderate, prominent group vocals and high energy.
73. Les Petits Rats
A ballet-centered musical about young dancers learning about discipline, art, and dreams. Quiet and heartfelt, with graceful movement and Paris charm.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 15–25 roles, mostly for dancers.
- Difficulty level: Hard, strong movement and character growth.
74. Little Miss Sunshine
A quirky family road-trips to a beauty pageant with their spirited daughter. Funny, touching, and full of life’s messy charm, this show balances humor and heart.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 8–12 performers, including flexible family roles.
- Difficulty level: Moderate humor and emotional pacing.
75. A Little Night Music
A romantic comedy set in Sweden, where past loves meet again during a weekend in the country. It’s witty and graceful, with beautiful waltzes and subtle feelings.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 15–25 roles with adult tone.
- Difficulty level: Hard, mature scenes and intricate music.
76. A Little Princess
Sara Crewe stays kind and brave after losing everything at boarding school. With themes of hope and friendship, this story inspires with gentle songs and vivid characters.
- Appropriate age: All ages
- Cast size: 20–35 roles with a strong girl ensemble.
- Difficulty level: Moderate emotional arc and sweet melodies.
77. Little Women
Jo March and her sisters steer the family, grow up, and have dreams during the Civil War. With powerful songs and warm scenes, it’s a classic coming-of-age tale.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 10–15 roles with a strong female cast.
- Difficulty level: Moderate heartfelt delivery and classic tone.
78. Loserville
A group of teens invents email in the ‘70s while dealing with school, bullies, and self-worth. With punk-pop songs and geek pride, it’s an energetic and empowering experience.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 20–30 performers with tech and school roles.
- Difficulty level: Moderate-fast songs and teen-focused staging.
79. Love’s Labour’s Lost
This modern take on Shakespeare brings college guys vowing not to fall in love—until they do. With big songs and romantic mix-ups, it’s a brilliant comedy.
- Appropriate age: Teen
- Cast size: 15–25 roles with many romantic pairings.
- Difficulty level: Moderate wordy scenes and clever lyrics.
Final Words
I see how these high school musicals provide endless possibilities for creating unforgettable theatrical experiences.
The perfect high school musicals to do depend on your cast size, budget, and student skill levels. I believe these diverse options ensure every drama program can find shows that showcase their talents beautifully.
The best high school musicals combine entertainment, education, and personal growth for students. These productions create lasting memories while teaching valuable life lessons through the power of musical theater.
Comment below and tell me which high school musical your students performed most successfully!