FPHL 
A Hat Tricks Guide to the Best in Theatre and Comedy
Experience the magic of live entertainment around Danbury, Conn., where passion meets artistry and the stage is always set for something spectacular. This vibrant region is brimming with theatrical marvels and comedic talent, ensuring there's never a dull moment for residents or visitors.
Whether you’re a dedicated theatergoer seeking an iconic musical or a comedy enthusiast itching for a good laugh, this unique guide covers it all. And remember to use promo code "HATTRICKS5"at checkout to save 5% on your next TicketSmarter purchase.
THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA TICKETS
To illustrate just how extraordinary Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera can be, consider its unprecedented run on Broadway that first began in 1988. This production has won more than 70 major theater awards, and it’s particularly famous for its sweeping score and lavish set design. Early on, the show captivated audiences with a unique combination of romance, suspense, and grand musical arrangements.
TAYLOR TOMLINSON TICKETS
Recent Specials: Taylor Tomlinson’s most recent Netflix special, titled Look At You, has been making waves thanks to her razor-sharp comedic timing.
Personal Style: Audiences adore Tomlinson’s knack for observational humor that touches on everything from adulthood challenges to mental health struggles, all delivered with a relatable twist.
Biographical Tidbit: Born in Orange County, California, she started performing stand-up as a teenager, finding her comedic voice early in life.
HAIRSPRAY TICKETS
Hairspray emerged onto the Broadway scene in 2002 as a joyful celebration of dance, individuality, and social progress. It traces its origins back to John Waters’ 1988 film, a quirky cult classic that provided the show’s core story and zany spirit. Featuring energetic tunes and vibrant choreography, the musical spotlights Tracy Turnblad’s dream to dance on “The Corny Collins Show,” a journey that unfolds against the backdrop of the 1960s fight for racial integration.
MATT RIFE TICKETS
Recent Specials: Rife has built buzz with self-produced comedy specials that reflect his quick-witted style.
Personal Style: He seamlessly incorporates improvisation, turning unexpected audience moments into comedic gold.
Biographical Insight: Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Rife started performing in small clubs before landing bigger gigs that showcased his hilarious crowd-work skills.
MEAN GIRLS TICKETS
When Mean Girls opened on Broadway in 2018, it took Tina Fey’s iconic high school comedy from the big screen to the stage with a humorous, modern twist. Rooted in the beloved 2004 film, the musical follows Cady Heron’s crash course in high school politics after she moves from Africa to suburban Illinois. With music by Jeff Richmond and lyrics by Nell Benjamin, Mean Girls earned numerous Tony nominations for its witty script and dynamic choreography, all while resonating with anyone who has ever navigated the treacherous halls of high school.
HAMILTON TICKETS
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton took the theater world by storm in 2015, reshaping the sound of Broadway. From its earliest days at The Public Theater, it has blended hip-hop, R&B, and classic show tunes to capture the life of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton:
It received a record-setting 16 Tony Award nominations, which underscores its cultural significance.
Miranda famously wrote portions of the musical’s lyrics while on vacation, initially debuting several songs at the White House Poetry Jam in 2009.
The original Broadway cast—including Leslie Odom Jr., Phillipa Soo, and Daveed Diggs—became instant icons within the theater community.
HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD TICKETS
Harry Potter fans rejoice—Harry Potter and the Cursed Child extends the wizarding world into a mesmerizing stage journey. Opening in 2016 in London’s West End, this two-part epic quickly spread its magic across the globe:
Jack Thorne wrote the script, with J.K. Rowling’s close collaboration to ensure authenticity in the beloved universe.
The show’s illusions and set transformations were hailed as groundbreaking.
It clinched several Olivier and Tony Awards, including Best Play, proving that the Harry Potter legacy was just as powerful on stage as it was in print.
AIN’T TOO PROUD TICKETS
Ain’t Too Proud chronicles the rise of The Temptations, Motown’s legendary vocal group formed in 1960. Originating in Detroit, these five men became pioneers of R&B with their polished choreography, sharp suits, and incomparable vocal harmonies. The musical, which premiered on Broadway in 2019, delves into their humble beginnings, meteoric success, and personal struggles, all to the tune of hits like “My Girl” and “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone.” With exhilarating dance numbers and heartfelt storytelling, Ain’t Too Proud earned a Tony Award for Best Choreography.
MOULIN ROUGE TICKETS
The energy and glitz of Paris's Montmartre come alive in Moulin Rouge. This theatrical gem arrived on Broadway in 2019, inspired by Baz Luhrmann’s 2001 film:
Global Appeal: Its extravagant staging, pop mash-ups, and breathtaking costumes captivate audiences around the world.
Notable Names: Aaron Tveit and Karen Olivo were among the original leads, embodying Christian and Satine.
Awards & Recognition: It clinched several Tonys, including Best Musical, solidifying its position as a modern classic.
GABRIEL IGLESIAS TICKETS
Recent Specials: His Netflix special, One Show Fits All, garnered rave reviews for its blend of lively voices and relatable tales.
Style: Known for clean humor, sound effects, and character-driven stories, Iglesias connects with all generations.
Background: Born in San Diego, he started working for a cell phone company before taking the bold leap into comedy full time.
THE LION KING TICKETS
A timeless family favorite since its Broadway premiere in 1997, The Lion King reimagines the beloved 1994 Disney film through a stunning fusion of puppet artistry, vibrant costuming, and African-inspired rhythms. Helmed by the visionary Julie Taymor, who became the first woman to receive a Tony Award for directing a musical, this production swiftly earned multiple Tonys and has since been staged in over 100 cities worldwide. The stage adaptation invites audiences to follow Simba’s quest for identity and courage, immersing them in the Pride Lands with unforgettable songs like “Circle of Life” and “Hakuna Matata.”
SIX THE MUSICAL TICKETS
Six the Musical offers a modern twist on the stories of King Henry VIII’s six wives. It debuted at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2017 before migrating to London’s West End and, eventually, Broadway:
Each queen reclaims her narrative through pop-infused anthems that make you want to dance in your seat.
The creative team, Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, wrote the show while studying at Cambridge University, delivering a fresh take on Tudor history.
With a strong focus on female empowerment, Six turned into a breakout success, garnering award nods for Best Original Score and beyond.
WICKED TICKETS
Since opening in 2003, Wicked has soared to become one of Broadway’s most enduring hits, reexamining the world of Oz from the perspective of Elphaba, the misunderstood Wicked Witch of the West. Originally starring powerhouse performers Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth, Wicked clinched multiple Tony Awards and introduced audiences to anthems like “Defying Gravity,” which has become a defining number in contemporary musical theater.
NATE BARGATZE TICKETS
Recent Specials: The Greatest Average American on Netflix offers a sneak peek into his offbeat observations and Southern charm.
Personal Style: His humor is subtle yet highly effective, often weaving personal anecdotes about family and everyday life.
Biographical Tidbit: Hailing from Old Hickory, Tennessee, he grew up in a family with a father who was a magician, giving Nate a distinctive vantage point for comedic material.
HADESTOWN TICKETS
Hadestown is a Tony-winning musical that reimagines the Greek tragedy of Orpheus and Eurydice through a spellbinding combination of folk and jazz-inflected melodies. Originally conceived in 2006 as a touring concept album by singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell, it began as an intimate, grassroots endeavor performed in Mitchell’s home state of Vermont. Refined under the direction of Rachel Chavkin, the show made its official Broadway debut in 2019, earning eight Tony Awards—including Best Musical.
Local Theaters in and around Danbury, CT
Danbury boasts more than just a passion for hockey and community events; it’s also home to a dynamic performing arts scene. Several venues stand out for their commitment to bringing the best of stage and screen to local audiences:
The Palace Danbury: Housed in a historic building, The Palace routinely programs a wide variety of entertainment, from indie film screenings to live concerts. They also occasionally host local theatrical productions that showcase regional talent.
Musicals at Richter: Each summer, you can head to Richter Park for open-air productions, soaking in the charm of live musicals under the stars. It’s a favored spot for families looking to combine the joys of the outdoors with top-tier musical theater.
Western Connecticut State University Venues: WCSU’s Visual and Performing Arts Department often presents plays, dance recitals, and concerts that allow emerging talent to shine.
Surrounding Theaters: While not in Danbury proper, towns like Ridgefield and New Milford also boast quaint but professional venues that frequently feature traveling productions, stand-up comedy nights, and community revivals of Broadway classics.
Don’t Miss Out—Secure Your Tickets!
With such a diverse lineup—from musicals steeped in history to contemporary comedies that feel ripped from everyday life—there truly is something for every taste. Secure your seat, invite your friends, and let the magic, music, and laughter overtake you.
Don’t forget to use the promo code HATTRICKS5 when booking through TicketSmarter, ensuring you snag a great deal on your next outing.