It’s back. NYC Broadway Week returns January 20 through February 12. (No, you’re not losing your mind—it’s actually over three weeks, but who’s counting when there are Broadway discounts to be had?) So many shows, so little time. Enter 1 Minute Critic’s must-see list for 2026.
‘Ragtime’: Our first 5-star musical review of the season
One of musical theater’s greatest scores roars back to Broadway at Lincoln Center Theater with a powerhouse cast of 34. Sure, the set’s a bit sparse, but who needs scenery when you’ve got voices this glorious? Ragtime delivers a visceral, uniquely American experience with powerhouse performances by Joshua Henry, Caissie Levy, Brandon Uranowitz, and Nichelle Lewis.
A rare chance to see June Squibb on Broadway
At 96, June Squibb (Thelma, Nebraska) anchors the divine acting company of Marjorie Prime with impeccable timing and witty reflection. Cynthia Nixon’s acerbic daughter voices what we’ve all thought but fear saying aloud. An acting masterclass about mortality, memory, and why we love—wrapped in a tight 85 minutes.
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A trifecta of Broadway’s best in ‘Chicago’
Chicago marks its 30th anniversary on Broadway later this year and already retains the title of the longest-running American musical. We’ve seen plenty of stars step into the roles of Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, from Brandy Norwood to Pamela Anderson. You have through January 25 to catch Broadway vet Robyn Hurder (Smash) as Velma and Alex Newell as Matron “Mama” Morton. Kate Baldwin plays Roxie through February 1. Reality TV fans should hold out until February 2, when Whitney Leavitt (The Secret Lives of Mormon Lives) steps into the role.
Jinkx Monsoon returns to ‘Oh, Mary!’
The surprise hit of last season, Oh, Mary! delivers high camp and a deliriously funny, fast-paced look at Mary Todd Lincoln if her deepest desire was to become a cabaret singer. We can relate. Catch Jinkx Monsoon in the title role through February 1, and Simu Liu (The Copenhagen Test, Shang-Chi) joining the company as Mary’s Teacher beginning February 3.
‘& Juliet’ delivers a fresh take on Shakespeare
If you’re looking for a family-friendly musical with a fresh take on female empowerment, & Juliet nods to Shakespeare’s classic tragedy with a new spin that includes hits from the Max Martin songbook. (He’s written hits for Britney Spears, Katy Perry, and the Backstreet Boys, to name a few). Ozians will appreciate that former Elphaba Teal Wicks is among the musical’s current stars.
Looking for more options? We love that for you! Check out all 27 shows, but know that tickets are selling fast.
