Netflix has rapidly become our first choice for lazy day entertainment, providing us with hours of bingeable material at the touch of a button. To those of you with an account (which is almost everyone, right? Find out your mum’s login details if not!): Once you have eventually caught up on Orange Is the New Black – and maybe had a shower, peeled back your curtains and engaged in some human interaction – you’ll be delighted to hear that you have access to some of the best musical theatre from the comfort of your own home!
From timeless classics like Annie and Funny Girl, to modern creations like Mamma Mia!, Netflix can satisfy every theatrical desire. Here are the top 8 musicals available for streaming right now:
1. Annie (1982)
Follow 11-year-old Annie, the world’s favourite urchin, as she transforms from rags to riches after capturing the heart of Daddy Warbucks with her adorable innocence and optimism. It’s a charming, feel-good classic complete with unforgettable songs. Perfect entertainment for a rainy day.
A brand new production of Annie starring Miranda Hart opens at London’s Piccadilly Theatre on 23 May. Book tickets here.
2. Dreamgirls (2006)
Adapted from the 1981 Broadway musical, and taking strong inspiration from the true story of The Supremes, Dreamgirls explores the evolution of 60s & 70s R&B music through the eyes of American girl group The Dreams. Tensions arise for the girls when their manager replaces lead singer Effie with the more ‘marketable’ Deena. Boasting a star-studded cast of Beyoncé Knowles, Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Hudson and Eddie Murphy, this is a real must-see.
3. Funny Girl (1968)
Follow the life-story of Broadway star Fanny Brice in the semi-biographical musical film Funny Girl. Based on the 1963 musical, the romcom – starring Oscar Award-winning Barba Streisand – highlights Brice’s hostile relationship with gambler Nicky Arnstein. It’s an old classic that’s definitely worth a watch.
4. Grease: Live (2016)
Be transported back to the 1950s to follow the whirlwind high-school romance between innocent Sandy and greaser Danny in a live television special starring Julianne Hough, Vanessa Hudgens and Carly Rae Jepson. Incorporating elements from both the 1978 film and the original stage production – as well as brand new songs – it’s an uplifting, one-night musical extravaganza you don’t want to miss!
5. On a Clear Day You Can See Forever (1970)
In the fantasy musical film On a Clear Day You Can See Forever, Barbra Streisand stars as a brash New Yorker who, at the request of her conservative fiancé, undergoes hypnotherapy to diminish her smoking habits. While under hypnosis, she shifts between present day and her past life in early 19th-century England. The film adaptation, and the oldest musical on Netflix, is described by Paramount as “a delightful combination of comedy, drama, fantasy and music.”
6. Mamma Mia! (2008)
Embrace the lovable hits of Swedish pop band ABBA in Mamma Mia! – the film adaptation of the 1999 West End musical. A single mum is preparing for her daughter’s wedding on the Greek isle of Kalokairi, when her three ex-lovers (and potential fathers of the bride-to-be) arrive for the big day. With a star-studded cast, including Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan and Julie Walters – and ABBA’s most-loved songs – Mamma Mia! promises to delight and uplift.
7. Puss in Boots (1988)
Much to his dismay, Corin inherits only a cat from his father. However, he is soon stunned to learn that the cat transforms to a human being when wearing a pair of boots. Follow the adventures of the magical cat as he helps his young master win the heart of a princess! Jason Connery and Christopher Walken star in this lovable musical film adaptation of the classic fairy tale Puss in Boots.
8. De-Lovely (2004)
Explore the life and career of American composer and songwriter Cole Porter in the 2004 musical biopic De-Lovely. From the night he first met his devoted wife, up until the day he died, you’ll witness his life unfolding much like one of his musicals.
Also, some of the most amazing musicals have been released in DVD in 2016, including Miss Saigon, Gypsy and more – have a look at the list we have compiled to complete your at-home-musical-indulgence!
