The Broadway Musical with the Longest Runtime: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you curious about which Broadway musical has the longest runtime? From memorable performances to iconic storylines, this guide will explore the top contenders and their significance in Broadway history.

Overview of the Longest-Running Broadway Musicals

As of August 2023, the Broadway musical with the longest runtime is Les Misérables. This timeless musical, which premiered in 1988, has a running time of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including an intermission. The show has become iconic not only for its music and storyline but also for its extended run on Broadway, making it one of the longest-running shows in Broadway history. As of the time of this writing, the longest single performance of Les Misérables has been known to run over 2 hours in certain productions.

Les Misérables: Iconic and Enduring

Les Misérables, based on the novel by Victor Hugo, follows the story of Jean Valjean, a former convict who becomes a talented mayor in France and finds redemption through the help of Fantine, a former factory worker, and Cosette, her daughter. This musical perfectly blends music, drama, and historical context, creating a deeply moving and memorable theatrical experience. The show has won numerous awards, including eight Tony Awards, which is another testament to its enduring popularity and relevance.

The Phantom of the Opera: A Timeless Tale

The Phantom of the Opera, another iconic musical, has been on Broadway since 1988 and is still running as of the current date, except for the period during the coronavirus pandemic. Although Les Misérables holds the title for the longest single performance, The Phantom of the Opera holds the record for the longest overall run on Broadway. The show's haunting melody and thrilling storyline have captivated audiences for decades. With over 13,000 performances, The Phantom of the Opera stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of musical theater.

Historical Performance Lengths

Les Misérables (Original Run): The original version of Les Misérables featured a running time of 3 hours and 20 minutes. This length was necessary to pay overtime to the crew and musicians due to the extended runtime. However, to address cost concerns and maintain union contracts, a new version of the show with several small cuts was implemented, reducing the performance time to under 3 hours. This decision was made with the goal of keeping production costs in check while still delivering a captivating performance.

The Longest Single Performance: In contrast, certain productions of Les Misérables have run over 2 hours, making it one of the longest single performances on Broadway. This extended runtime reflects the show's depth and the seriousness of its themes. However, for a cumulative tally of performances, Les Misérables remains the winner with over 12,000 performances to its name.

Conclusion

From Les Misérables to The Phantom of the Opera, Broadway has seen a plethora of musicals that have captured the hearts and imaginations of audiences worldwide. While Les Misérables holds the title for the longest single performance, the ever-evolving world of Broadway continues to offer new productions and performances. Keep an eye on current sources for the latest information on these and other Broadway favorites.

Keywords: Broadway Musical, Longest Runtime, Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera