For high school drama departments, community theaters, and youth groups, the annual musical is often a choice between the same handful of blockbuster titles. While Grease or Guys and Dolls are classics for a reason, they have been performed countless times. Finding a show that resonates with modern teenagers, offers interesting roles, and hasn’t been done to death is a challenge. The best, most underrated musicals for teens often explore themes of identity, social pressure, and finding one’s voice, all while offering infectious, modern scores. Here are some hidden gems that deserve a spot on the high school stage.
The Mad OnesOriginally titled The Unauthorized Autobiography of Samantha Brown, The Mad Ones is a contemporary musical that perfectly captures the anxiety of senior year, college applications, and impending adulthood. Written by Kait Kerrigan and Bree Lowdermilk, the story follows Sam as she prepares to leave for college, struggling to break free from her overbearing mother and a best friend who passed away. It is an incredibly intimate show, often staged with a small, focused cast. The musical is deeply relatable, featuring emotional powerhouse songs that require strong acting chops, making it a fantastic choice for a talented group of young actors looking for dramatic depth over large ensemble numbers.
Ordinary DaysAnother masterclass in intimate musical theater, Ordinary Days by Adam Gwon follows four young people in New York City whose lives intersect in unexpected ways. It explores the chaotic, often funny, and sometimes poignant search for meaning in everyday life. The show is entirely sung-through, which makes it an excellent choice for a strong vocal ensemble. With only four actors, it is easy to produce, allowing for more resources to be spent on set design or lighting. Its relatable, modern, and witty dialogue makes it a perfect fit for a mature teen cast exploring the transition into young adulthood.
Freaky FridayWhile the Disney movie is famous, the musical adaptation by Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey (the team behind Next to Normal) is criminally underrated in school theater. Freaky Friday follows a mother and daughter who swap bodies and must live each other’s lives for a day. It’s an high-energy, comedic show with a fast-paced, pop-rock score that is both challenging and fun. The dual lead roles are massive, providing fantastic acting opportunities for two young women. It also features a strong, diverse ensemble cast of classmates, offering plenty of dance opportunities and character roles for a large group.
Jasper in DeadlandFor a group looking for something truly unique, Jasper in Deadland by Hunter Foster and Ryan Scott Oliver is a modern rock musical loosely based on the Orpheus and Eurydice myth. It follows teenager Jasper as he travels through a mythological afterlife to save his friend. The musical features a high-energy rock score, a fantastical setting, and themes of bravery, grief, and growing up. Its imaginative, fantastical world allows for incredible creativity in set design, costumes, and lighting, making it a visual spectacle that gives designers as much room to shine as the performers.
Working: A MusicalBased on the Studs Terkel book of the same name, Working is a celebration of the American worker, updated with songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Stephen Schwartz. It is a show about finding pride and purpose in any job, from a waitress to a mason to a high-level executive. While it may seem unconventional, it is an incredible ensemble piece that allows every single cast member to have a spotlight moment. It is deeply personal, heartfelt, and gives teens a chance to explore diverse characters and social issues in a profoundly moving way.
Choosing an underrated musical allows a theater program to stand out, providing a unique experience for both the performers and the audience. These shows, with their contemporary scores and complex characters, offer a fresh, exciting alternative to the traditional repertoire. By breaking away from the standard choices, schools can challenge their students, engage their communities, and bring a new, vibrant energy to their stage.
Leave a Reply