Broadway Looks Ahead to Next Season's Possible Musicals

From 'Evita' to 'Paddington,' the industry is already planning for the future after a subpar current season.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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As the current Broadway season struggles with new musical flops, the industry is already looking ahead to next year's potential offerings. Shows like 'Paddington,' 'Evita,' 'Dolly,' and 'Galileo' are all eyeing Broadway slots in 2026 and 2027, despite some mixed reactions to early out-of-town tryouts. Producers are hoping to find the next big hit to revive Broadway's fortunes.

Why it matters

Broadway has faced a challenging period with many new musicals failing to find commercial success. The industry is under pressure to identify the next breakout hit, and these potential new shows represent the industry's efforts to bounce back and attract audiences. The mix of familiar titles like 'Evita' and 'Dolly' alongside newer properties like 'Paddington' and 'Galileo' reflects Broadway's search for the right balance of proven appeal and fresh ideas.

The details

Several high-profile musicals are in the works for potential Broadway runs in the next two seasons. 'Paddington,' based on the beloved children's book character, is eyeing the Hirschfeld Theatre after a successful run in London's West End. 'Evita,' starring Rachel Zegler, is planning a production at the Winter Garden Theatre, featuring the unique staging of Zegler singing 'Don't Cry for Me Argentina' from an outside balcony. Dolly Parton's jukebox musical 'Dolly: A True Original Musical' is also aiming for Broadway, despite a lukewarm reception in its Nashville tryout. And 'Galileo: A Rock Musical' about the Italian astronomer is hoping to capitalize on Broadway's recent success with unconventional subject matter.

  • The 'Paddington' musical has been a tough ticket in London's West End since its debut.
  • The 'Evita' revival starring Rachel Zegler closed in London's West End in September.

The players

Sonia Friedman

A British producer who is eyeing a Broadway run for 'Paddington.'

Rachel Zegler

The actress starring in the upcoming Broadway production of 'Evita.'

Jamie Lloyd

The director of the 'Evita' revival that is coming to Broadway.

Dolly Parton

The country music legend whose biographical musical 'Dolly: A True Original Musical' is aiming for Broadway.

Raúl Esparza

The actor starring in the musical 'Galileo: A Rock Musical,' which is eyeing a Broadway run.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Broadway is looking to bounce back from a challenging current season by lining up a diverse slate of potential new musicals for the next two years, ranging from familiar titles like 'Evita' and 'Dolly' to newer properties like 'Paddington' and 'Galileo.' The industry is searching for the right balance of proven appeal and fresh ideas to revive its fortunes.