Even though we're not able to go to the theater right now, there are still so many other ways to experience the stage and behind-the-scenes magic. We've put together a list of our favorite theater documentaries that are available to stream. Take a look, make your pick, and stay inside with Lin-Manuel Miranda, Carol Channing, Stephen Sondheim, and more.
Broadway Idiot
“American Idiot” can be billed as the most punk rock musical Broadway’s ever seen. This documentary follows Green Day’s Billie Joe Armstrong as his hit album is transformed into a a rock-stars-meet-stage-stars musical blast.
Rent it on Amazon.
Broadway or Bust
We love the Jimmy Awards, and the Rose Center Theater has had a number of previous winners perform on our stage. This three-part series follows one year of contestants from the moment they all arrive in New York City for the program’s intensive training and rehearsals to the moment they all make their Broadway stage debuts.
Watch it on PBS.
Carol Channing: Larger Than Life
Watch Broadway legends, Debbie Reynolds, Barbara Walters, Lily Tomlin, and more celebrate the original Dolly Levi and stage superstar Carol Channing.
Rent it on Amazon.
Every Little Step
You can’t have a list of theater documentaries without this one. “Every Little Step” chronicles the casting process for the 2006 revival of “A Chorus Line.” It’s the most meta must-watch.
Rent it on Amazon.
Fiddler: Miracle of Miracles
This doc uncovers rare rehearsal footage from the original 1964 Broadway production of “Fiddler on the Roof” and contains interviews with legends about the show’s impact on musical theater and the world itself.
Rent or buy it on Amazon.
Hamilton: One Shot to Broadway
Interviews with Lin-Manuel Miranda, cast members from the original production, and more put the spotlight on parts of the show’s once-in-a-lifetime journey to Broadway that you’ve never seen before.
Rent it on Amazon.
Legally Blonde: The Search for Elle Woods
In 2008, the Broadway musical “Legally Blonde” needed a new Elle Woods. Enter: an MTV competition series for the spot. It’s as ridiculous and addictive as you can imagine. Even better? The only place to watch it online is via many (many) YouTube videos.
Watch it on YouTube.
Life After Tomorrow
If you living for “Encore” on Disney+ you’ll love this. “Life After Tomorrow” is a series of interviews with grown-up women who played the title role in “Annie” as a kid.
Rent it on Amazon.
The Making of West Side Story
This detailed documentary shows the making of the 1985 recording of the entire “West Side Story” score. Oh and the recording was conducted by the Leonard Bernstein who wrote the music? Yeah, that's a pretty special sight.
Watch it on Broadway HD.
Show Business: The Road to Broadway
This doc follows four Broadway shows — “Wicked,” “Taboo,” “Avenue Q,” and “Caroline, Or Change” — through the 2004 Tony Awards season. Featured players include Idina Menzel, Rosie O’Donnell, and Alan Cumming.
