10 Broadway shows to see this summer if you're in New York City — as recommended by a theater professional

The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

Finding a Broadway show to see can feel like an overwhelming proposition with so many fantastic options to choose from.

I’ve worked in theater for the past five years, and I’ve seen plenty of plays both on and off Broadway. Some shows I’ve liked, some shows I’d rather forget, and some shows have changed my life. They’ve stayed with me forever, instilling within me a love of theater that has led me to choose to make my living amongst it.

Maybe none of these recommendations will cause you to fall head over heels in love with theater, but I hope I can at least steer you towards a memorable evening. See you at the show!

If you want your faith in humanity restored, check out “Come From Away”

@wecomefromaway Instagram

Find tickets for "Come From Away" from $69

On September 11, 2001, 38 planes containing 7,000 passengers were ordered to land in the tiny town of Gander, Newfoundland. “Come From Away” tells the true story of strangers coming together to make sense of tragedy. It’s a story of hope, compassion, generosity, and the strength of the human spirit in a time of confusion, desperation, and loss.

If it sounds like heavy subject matter, in a way, it is, but “Come From Away” will leave you feeling the most hopeful and joyous you’ve felt in a long time. It’s a cliche to say “I laughed, I cried!” but this remarkable ensemble cast of 18 performers — most of whom have been with the show since its debut at La Jolla Playhouse in 2015 — will take you through the emotional gamut in 100 riveting minutes.

If you’re a nostalgic millennial, check out “SpongeBob SquarePants”

@spongebobbway Instagram

Find tickets for "SpongeBob SquarePants" from $49

"Are ya ready kids?" If you instinctively answered, "Aye aye, captain!" then this show is for you. Every '90s kid’s favorite cartoon has been adapted for the stage where all your Bikini Bottom pals must save the city from being swallowed up by a volcanic eruption.

With music by the likes of David Bowie, Panic! At the Disco, and rapper T.I., to name only a few off the star-studded list of composers, there’s plenty of artistic credibility to keep "SpongeBob" afloat. Plus, you won’t want to miss Squidward’s four-legged, show-stopping tap number. Just don’t be too disappointed that a certain character’s titular pants aren’t exactly right-angled.

If you want to see the most decorated show of the 2018 Tony Awards, check out “The Band’s Visit”

@thebandsvisit Instagram

Find tickets for "The Band's Visit" from $59

"The Band’s Visit" celebrated a phenomenal night at this year’s Tony Awards, winning 10 out of the 11 awards it was nominated for including the top honor of Best Musical.

It tells the story of an Egyptian police band traveling to Israel for a gig. When they mistakenly arrive in the wrong town, they are taken in by cafe owner Dina, portrayed stunningly by Katrina Lenk, and their presence begins to awaken the sleepy desert town. A sleeper hit based on a 2007 Israeli film of the same name, "The Band’s Visit" has taken Broadway by storm and become a must-see overnight.

See the rest of the story at Business Insider

See Also:

• 18 Patagonia best sellers from past seasons that you can get for half off today
• The best toilet plungers you can buy
• The best natural deodorant you can buy