From Page to Stage: Books That Became Musicals

Some of the most beloved musicals of all time started their journey as books, capturing readers’ imaginations before dazzling audiences on stage. From Victor Hugo’s sweeping epic Les Misérables to Gregory Maguire’s Wicked, a fresh take on The Wizard of Oz, literature has inspired some of Broadway’s greatest hits. But how do these adaptations transform a story from page to stage? Theatrical adaptations require creative storytelling, memorable music, and sometimes even major plot changes to make a novel sing—literally. Join us as we explore the novels that inspired legendary musicals, examining what stayed true, what changed, and why some stories are simply meant for the spotlight.