The Tony Awards are basically the Super Bowl of theatre. Yet for many viewers across the country, the excitement of Broadway’s Biggest Night doesn’t depend on having seen every nominated show. Instead, audiences tune in for the spectacle: the live performances, the surprise wins, and the celebration of Broadway at its best.
In the months leading up to the ceremony, fans—especially Gen Z—have already been immersed in the season through social media clips, rehearsal footage, and cast recordings they stream on repeat. As the first true digital natives, Gen Z doesn’t just watch theatre—they talk about it constantly online. A quick search of #Broadway on platforms like TikTok returns millions of posts filled with reactions, predictions, and passionate debates about this year’s standout shows. For groups planning a trip to New York City, Broadway Inbound helps turn that online excitement into a real-world experience, coordinating tickets, seating, and schedules so audiences can see the shows that have everyone talking.
So which productions are people buzzing about, and what are they saying? More importantly, how can educators and group leaders tap into that enthusiasm—meeting audiences where they are and using their passion for theatre to spark meaningful conversation and shared experiences?
The Show: CATS: The Jellicle Ball
Debuting in 1982, Cats quickly became a Broadway sensation, powered by Andrew Lloyd Webber’s memorable score and lyrics inspired by Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats by T. S. Eliot. The show went on to win seven Tony Awards in 1983 and became a global hit. In 2026, the musical returns with a bold new spin: CATS: The Jellicle Ball. This reimagined version draws inspiration from ballroom culture, blending the familiar story with high-energy voguing, striking visuals, and themes of love, identity, and resilience. The result is a fresh take on a Broadway classic that celebrates the creativity and spirit of the LGBTQIA+ ballroom scene.
In the Comments Section:
”Why is this making me emotional 😭”
“Cats The Jellicle Ball is my new obsession.”
“This is like the only time I’ve wanted to watch Cats in some way”
After a sold-out Off-Broadway run, the team behind CATS: The Jellicle Ball already has plenty of footage to keep fans engaged online. In the lead-up to its Broadway transfer, the show’s social media channels have been sharing teaser clips, cast profiles, and behind-the-scenes interviews to build even more buzz. They’ve also posted short videos explaining the history and culture of the ballroom scene—giving audiences context for the world that inspires this new take on Cats. Fans are especially excited to see real-life ballroom legends involved in the production, including Junior LaBeija. As director Bill Rauch describes it, the show celebrates “the radical, inclusive love that is at the heart of ballroom.”
The Classroom Conversations:
Seeing CATS: The Jellicle Ball together can spark a range of classroom conversations. Students might explore the history and performance traditions of ballroom culture, look at how choreographers use movement to tell a story, or discuss why artists revisit classic musicals like Cats and give them a new perspective. There’s even a natural poetry curriculum connection through T. S. Eliot, whose work inspired the original show. Productions like this highlight how theatre blends tradition with innovation.
The Show: The Lost Boys
The Lost Boys brings the cult-favorite ’80s vampire film to the Broadway stage, transforming the story into a high-energy musical set in the neon-soaked beach town of Santa Carla. Featuring a rock-driven score by indie band The Rescues, the production captures the rebellious spirit and supernatural intrigue that made the original movie a Gen X fan favorite. The musical follows brothers Michael and Sam as they adjust to life in a new town and discover a hidden vampire underworld beneath the sunny California surface. As Michael becomes entangled with a mysterious group of outsiders, the story balances supernatural suspense with themes of friendship, identity, and the bonds of family.
In the Comments Section:
“This is about to become my new obsession show”
“as a girl whose mom made her watch the lost boys and also a huge musical theater nerd I have never been so excited for any release date in my life”
“Literally planned a weekend in NYC with my besties around this show fingers crossed we can get tickets when we get there”
Online buzz around The Lost Boys has been steadily building as fans share their excitement for the musical’s Broadway debut. Commenters are also paying close attention to the cast, especially Ali Louis Bourzgui, who made a Tony-nominated splash in The Who’s Tommy. Early clips circulating online have audiences talking about the powerful vocals and the show’s rock-forward sound, which echoes the edgy energy of the original film. For many fans, the combination of ‘80s-era storytelling and a dynamic new score is already generating serious anticipation.
The Classroom Conversations:
Seeing The Lost Boys together can spark a range of classroom discussions. Vampires have appeared throughout literature and pop culture for centuries, from gothic novels like Dracula to modern films, television, and young adult fiction. Exploring why these supernatural characters continue to captivate audiences offers a fascinating look at how stories evolve across generations. Students might also examine how the musical adapts a cult film for the stage, considering how music, choreography, and staging reshape a familiar story. Productions like this highlight how theatre draws inspiration from popular culture while reimagining it in bold and creative ways.
The Show: Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York)
Following successful theatre runs in London and Boston, Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) is delivering laughs and heartfelt moments on Broadway. The story follows Dougal, an upbeat Englishman in New York for his estranged father’s wedding, accompanied by Robin, the bride’s no-nonsense sister. Together, they hilariously navigate the city’s chaos with a wedding cake in tow, uncovering hidden truths along the way. With a witty and touching narrative, this musical comedy captures the charm of new beginnings and unexpected friendships, offering audiences a delightful escape filled with joy and reflection.
In the Comments Section:
“This is my first impression and i’m OBSESSEDDDDDDD”
“I have the Broadway album pre-saved!! I’m so excited!!!!”
“I’m convinced that anyone who hates musical theatre just hates feeling anything. Because it truly makes you feel EVERYTHING”
Fans online seem to be obsessed—again—with Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York). Are we catching a theme in these comments? Sam Tutty and Christiani Pitts are getting high praise for their chemistry, with their voices and timing bringing warmth, humor, and emotional depth to every scene. Early social media buzz highlights standout vocal moments and the clever interplay between the two characters, showing how a small cast can make a big impact. Between its witty writing and engaging score, Two Strangers has quickly become a must-see for theatre-goers craving a fresh, intimate Broadway experience.
The Classroom Conversations:
Experiencing Two Strangers offers a chance to examine how a two-character musical can convey drama, humor, and story almost entirely through dialogue-driven songs. Unlike large-scale productions with ensemble numbers and spectacle, this show relies on the interplay between Dougal and Robin, demonstrating how music and lyrics function as conversation. Groups might discuss how the characters’ voices, reactions, and musical exchanges reveal personality, emotion, and narrative progression, highlighting the artistry of intimate storytelling on the Broadway stage.
Bringing the Buzz to Life
For groups, experiencing these shows on Broadway goes beyond simply seeing a performance—it’s about joining the conversation, witnessing creativity up close, and sharing moments that spark curiosity, dialogue, and connection. Whether it’s the high-energy voguing of CATS: The Jellicle Ball, the rock-driven thrills of The Lost Boys, or the intimate, witty exchanges in Two Strangers, each production offers a unique lens into storytelling, music, and performance.
Partnering with Broadway Inbound ensures that groups can fully embrace the excitement without logistical headaches. From securing tickets and arranging seating to coordinating schedules and special experiences, Broadway Inbound helps make every visit seamless, allowing participants to focus on enjoying the performance and the cultural immersion that comes with it.
Together, these shows illustrate how Broadway continues to captivate audiences of all ages, blending classic inspiration with contemporary innovation. Attending a production isn’t just entertainment—it’s an invitation to engage with the energy, artistry, and community that make Broadway the beating heart of theatre. For any group traveling to New York City, these productions provide a shared, memorable experience, turning a night on Broadway into lasting stories, conversations, and connections.
Main photo courtesy of Matthew Murphy.
