Broadway has a magical way of taking stories from the page and transforming them into show-stopping spectacles. Some of the biggest Broadway hits started their journey as classic books, proving that great stories can thrive in any format. Whether you’re a book lover, a theater geek, or both, these adaptations are a must-see—and a must-read. Bonus: many of these classics are available as free audiobooks, so you can dive into the original before belting out the show tunes.

1. The Phantom of the Opera

The Book:

The Musical: The Phantom of the Opera (1988 Broadway debut)

Why It’s a Hit: Andrew Lloyd Webber’s lush melodies brought this gothic romance to life, complete with a haunting masked antihero and a dramatic love triangle. With its opulent set design (hello, crashing chandelier), it’s Broadway royalty.

Iconic Song: “The Music of the Night” (prepare to swoon).

Read Before You Watch: The original story is available as a free audiobook and is a must for fans who want to see how the book inspired the stage production.

2. Oliver!

The Book:

The Musical: Oliver! (1963 Broadway debut)

Why It’s a Hit: Dickens’ vivid characters—Oliver, Fagin, Nancy, and the Artful Dodger—come to life with toe-tapping tunes and heart-wrenching drama. “Consider Yourself” one of the gang as this musical charms its way into your heart.

Iconic Song: “As Long as He Needs Me” (a powerhouse ballad).

Read Before You Watch: Explore Victorian London through Dickens’ eyes with the free audiobook of Oliver Twist.

3. Wicked

The Book:

(and Wicked by Gregory Maguire)

The Musical: Wicked (2003 Broadway debut)

Why It’s a Hit: This reimagined backstory of the Wicked Witch of the West has become a modern classic, blending humor, heart, and jaw-dropping vocals. It’s a Broadway blockbuster that defies gravity—and expectations.

Iconic Song: “Defying Gravity” (sing it at the top of your lungs, we dare you).

Read Before You Watch: Start with Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, available as a free classic audiobook, to get the full Oz experience.

4. The Hunchback of Notre-Dame

The Book:

The Musical: The Hunchback of Notre-Dame (Disney stage adaptation, 2014)

Why It’s a Hit: This adaptation blends Hugo’s dramatic tale of love and faith with the beloved Disney film’s unforgettable music. The result? A show that’s both heartbreaking and inspiring.

Iconic Song: “Out There” (Quasimodo’s anthem of longing and hope).

Read Before You Watch: Victor Hugo’s novel is available as a free audiobook for anyone ready to explore its darker depths.

5. Little Women

The Book:

The Musical: Little Women (2005 Broadway debut)

Why It’s a Hit: The March sisters’ journey of love, loss, and finding their way in the world translates beautifully to the stage. Jo’s fiery passion takes center stage in songs that will leave you inspired.

Iconic Song: “Astonishing” (Jo’s big, bold solo that brings the house down).

Read Before You Watch: Relive this cherished classic with the free audiobook of Little Women.

From the gritty streets of Victorian London to the magical land of Oz, these classic books turned Broadway hits prove that great stories transcend mediums. With many of these originals available as free classic audiobooks, you can immerse yourself in the worlds that inspired these beloved musicals. So grab your headphones, hit play, and get ready to hum along—because the best stories truly never go out of style.