· By Whitney Hunt
15 Must-See Shows and Stand-Up Events You Can’t Miss!
Energy, excitement, and a spirit of celebration surround the Charleston Dirty Birds baseball team all season long, and this guide is designed to add even more buzz to your calendar. From dazzling Broadway musicals to laugh-out-loud stand-up comedy, there’s an abundance of entertainment ready to sweep you off your feet.
Keep an eye out for a special offer from TicketSmarter, too, to make your theater and comedy experience even sweeter.
Local Theaters: Charleston’s Cultural Hubs
Before we jump into the shows and stand-up acts, let’s shine a spotlight on a few local gems in and around Charleston, WV. These venues make the area a thriving cultural destination:
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Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences: Known for its wide range of performances, from big musicals to community productions, this center includes both a theater and a discovery museum.
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Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center: A frequent host to touring Broadway shows and comedy headliners, this large complex provides ample space for top-tier talent.
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Kanawha Players Theater: One of the longest-running community theaters in the region, with roots going back several decades. They often present local musicals, dramas, and original pieces.
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Charleston Civic Center Little Theater: Tucked within a bigger complex, this smaller venue still manages to draw significant productions that appreciate a more intimate space.
Hadestown Tickets
Hadestown emerged off-Broadway in 2016, capturing hearts with its poetic retelling of Greek myths set to folk and jazz tunes. It moved to Broadway in 2019, winning multiple Tony Awards, including Best Musical, for its richly layered score and innovative staging. Renowned for blending a soulful vibe with classical mythology, the show features a narrative that echoes timeless tales of love and loss. Singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell’s evocative lyrics and melodies bridge the gap between old-world storytelling and a modern theatrical experience.
Leanne Morgan Tickets
Leanne Morgan’s comedic style is often described as "Southern charm meets modern motherhood," reflecting her personal experiences growing up in rural Tennessee. She has gained widespread popularity with her relatable humor and recently released the stand-up special “I’m Every Woman,” which highlights the triumphs and travails of family life. Having dipped her toes in comedy a bit later in life, she brings a fresh perspective that resonates with many audiences who admire her warm and conversational delivery.
Mean Girls Tickets
Initially igniting screens in 2004 as a now-iconic teen comedy film, Mean Girls made its Broadway debut in 2018 with a fresh musical spin. The original movie was penned by Tina Fey, who also worked on the stage version, infusing the show with even more comedic flair. Early workshops featured up-and-coming performers who have since made waves in other productions, reflecting the show’s knack for discovering breakout talent. Much of the musical’s success lies in its catchy songs—like “Apex Predator”—which blend pop flavors with clever, witty lyrics.
Ain’t Too Proud Tickets
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Origins: Ain’t Too Proud recounts the rise of The Temptations, one of Motown’s most legendary vocal groups.
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Year It Began: The musical had its first run in 2017 at the Berkeley Repertory Theatre before making its way to Broadway in 2019.
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Notable Performers: Original Broadway cast members included Derrick Baskin and Ephraim Sykes, who received critical acclaim for their portrayals.
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Awards: The production earned multiple Tony Award nominations, celebrating its powerhouse choreographer, Sergio Trujillo, who won for Best Choreography.
Moulin Rouge Tickets
When Moulin Rouge burst onto the stage, it took its cue from the 2001 film that blended contemporary music with a bohemian setting in turn-of-the-century Paris. The musical officially opened on Broadway in 2019, dazzling crowds with elaborate set pieces reminiscent of the iconic Moulin Rouge cabaret. Its grandiose visuals and pop-meets-cabaret soundtrack earned it ten Tony Awards, reflecting the production’s emphasis on spectacle. Producers took great care to procure the rights to a massive library of songs, adding fresh musical numbers to keep the show’s content evolving and surprising.
Hamilton Tickets
Hamilton Tickets revolve around one of the most groundbreaking musicals of the 21st century, which officially premiered off-Broadway in 2015 before transferring to the Richard Rodgers Theatre. Lin-Manuel Miranda was inspired by Ron Chernow’s biography of Alexander Hamilton, weaving hip-hop, R&B, and traditional show tunes into a narrative about America’s founding fathers. The original cast included celebrated names like Leslie Odom Jr. and Phillipa Soo, catapulting them to widespread fame.
Six the Musical Tickets
Created by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, Six the Musical premiered at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2017 before becoming a West End and Broadway sensation. Each of the six wives of Henry VIII takes the mic to share her story in a modern pop-concert format, blending comedic dialogue and catchy beats. Unlike many musicals, the cast is predominantly female, which adds a spirited sense of empowerment to the production. The costuming, reminiscent of Renaissance-meets-girl-band style, is just as vibrant as the show’s music, amplifying the unorthodox reimagining of historical events.
Hairspray Tickets
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Origins: This musical draws its storyline and colorful spirit from John Waters’s 1988 film, offering a lively twist on a cult classic.
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Year It Began: It debuted on Broadway in 2002, swiftly earning a devoted audience for its catchy tunes and social commentary.
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Notable Performers: The original Broadway cast included Marissa Jaret Winokur, whose portrayal of Tracy Turnblad won over critics and fans alike, and Harvey Fierstein, who redefined the role of Edna Turnblad.
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Awards: Recognized for its infectious score and vibrant choreography, the show snagged eight Tony Awards, solidifying its place among Broadway’s iconic hits.
&Juliet Tickets
A fresh take on Shakespeare’s classic heroine, &Juliet reimagines Juliet’s fate after Romeo is out of the picture, infusing pop anthems from acclaimed songwriter Max Martin. The concept was first teased in 2019, highlighting tunes made famous by Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, and other pop icons. The show has a young, energetic cast who belt out contemporary hits while grappling with questions of identity and choice. Unlike the original tragedy, this musical offers a comedic and empowering vibe, showcasing how Juliet’s story might unfold if she seized control of her destiny.
The Lion King Tickets
The Lion King took Broadway by storm in 1997, adapting Disney’s beloved animated film into a visually stunning stage spectacle. With direction and costume design by Julie Taymor, the production seamlessly fuses elaborate puppetry and vibrant African-inspired aesthetics, which won the show multiple Tony Awards. Its music by Elton John and Tim Rice—paired with additional compositions by Lebo M—ensures fans can sing along to “Circle of Life” and “Hakuna Matata.”
Wicked Tickets
Wicked soared onto the stage in 2003, expanding on Gregory Maguire’s novel that reimagines the Wizard of Oz from the witches’ perspectives. Featuring a score by Stephen Schwartz, it quickly won three Tony Awards, partly because of its standout performances by Idina Menzel as Elphaba and Kristin Chenoweth as Glinda. Some of the show’s early workshops showcased alternate songs that never made it into the final version, illustrating the evolving nature of musical production.
The Phantom of the Opera Tickets
The Phantom of the Opera began its haunting journey in London’s West End in 1986, composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Charles Hart. Known for its massive chandelier crash and gothic romance, this timeless show has been performed in over 30 countries worldwide. Its original London cast featured Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman, whose portrayals became synonymous with their characters. The musical secured the 1988 Tony Award for Best Musical, solidifying its reputation as a masterpiece of sweeping orchestral compositions and dramatic stage effects..
Brad Williams Tickets
Brad Williams has carved a niche in the comedy world with a dynamic style that combines observational humor, personal anecdotes, and an upfront perspective on living with dwarfism. He has starred in numerous specials, including “Fun Size” and “Daddy Issues,” showcasing his energetic stage presence and willingness to tackle sensitive subjects. Originally discovering his comedic talents while working with Carlos Mencia, Williams quickly branched out on his own, building a large following for his no-holds-barred approach.
Jeff Arcuri Tickets
Jeff Arcuri, a rising star in the stand-up scene, is frequently praised for his quick-witted observations and clever punchlines. His comedic style leans toward anecdotal humor, with stories that illuminate absurdities in daily life—ranging from dating mishaps to mishaps at the grocery store. He has performed on notable platforms like “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” expanding his fan base through national television. One of his personal strengths is crowd work: he’s known to engage audience members directly, turning spontaneous moments into comedic gold.
Taylor Tomlinson Tickets
Taylor Tomlinson has been making waves with her Netflix specials, including “Quarter-Life Crisis” and “Look At You,” which highlight her millennial viewpoint on everything from mental health to the intricacies of dating. Beginning her comedy journey as a teenager, she developed a sophisticated style that blends self-deprecation with light-hearted jabs at generational differences. She’s lauded for her ability to tackle serious topics—like anxiety and personal growth—in a way that feels both approachable and laugh-out-loud hilarious.
Planning Your Next Adventure
Remember that you can enjoy a discount for many of these must-see events with TicketSmarter. Just use the exclusive promo code DIRTYBIRDS5 at checkout to treat yourself to savings. Whether it’s your first Charleston Dirty Birds game or your 10th Broadway musical, the experience becomes more exciting when you get a great deal on tickets. From group outings with family to solo nights of cultural enrichment, a discount always adds a spark of joy!