Being so close to the theatre district, Pantages guests often enjoy a show or two when they’re in town. If musical theatre is what you love, the sweet selection of musicals playing here this summer will make for some enjoyable outings.

The Lion King

Featuring extravagant costumes, puppets and choreography, The Lion King is an adaptation of Disney’s classic adventure about a young lion cub who sets out to reclaim his heritage after being forced into exile by his evil uncle. It was created in 1997 by Tony winner Julie Taymor and has been playing ever since, featuring all the well-loved songs from the movie and some new ones, too!
Princess of Wales Theatre, June 13 to August 4

The Book of Mormon

This outrageous comedy from the award-winning creators of South Park, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, follows a pair of Mormon kids on a mission to preach the Book of Mormon in Uganda. Fuelled by 19 original songs that cover the gamut from the sublime to the ridiculous and the sweet to the obscene, this show was called “the best musical of this century” by The New York Times, and the Washington Post has deemed its viewing “the kind of evening that restores your faith in musicals.”
Ed Mirvish Theatre, June 11 to 23

Come From Away

We can’t think of another Broadway musical that takes place in Canada, but based on this smash hit, more probably should. Come From Away is the story of 9/11 in Gander, Newfoundland, where the small town housed, clothed and fed thousands of stranded air travellers after US airspace was closed. The performances are fun, the music is catchy and the set design is inspiring. Elgin Theatre, to September 29

Dear Evan Hansen

In its first Toronto run, this Broadway hit, the winner of a Grammy and six Tony awards, is a moving tale about a high school misfit who is desperate for recognition from his fellow students. A mysterious suicide note brings our hero what he had so fervently wished for, then things begin to rapidly unravel. Pulled together by its compelling pop score, this thoroughly relevant piece is a profound meditation on mental health and modern life.
Royal Alexandra Theatre, to July 21

Waitress

The first Broadway musical to have its book, its score, its direction and its choreography developed by women, Waitress has just embarked on its first national tour. It tells the story of Jenna, a diner waitress who is given the chance to leave her small-town world behind. Desi Oakley, who has been Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz and Roxie Hart in Chicago, plays Jenna and sings the marvellous, baked-goods-referencing songs (including “The Key (Lime) to Happiness Pie” and “Betrayed By My Eggs Pie”).
Ed Mirvish Theatre, July 9 to August 18

If you do plan to see a show while you’re in town, book your ticket early and take advantage of our discounted event rate.