Miss Saigon is a famous musical that has been captivating audiences since its London premiere in 1989. With beautiful music written by Claude-Michel Schönberg and powerful lyrics by Alain Boublil and Richard Maltby Jr., Miss Saigon is one of the most successful musicals of all time. But with the original production closing over 20 years ago, many people wonder if it’s still possible to see this iconic show.
What is Miss Saigon about?
Miss Saigon is a tragic love story set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War. It is loosely based on the opera Madame Butterfly and tells the tale of a doomed romance between an American G.I. named Chris and a young Vietnamese woman named Kim. The two meet and fall in love, but are torn apart when Saigon falls and Chris is forced to flee the country without Kim. Years later, Kim is still desperately searching for Chris in America. The musical explores their ill-fated romance and the effects of the war on both of their lives.
When did Miss Saigon originally run?
The original production of Miss Saigon opened in London in 1989, where it played for nearly 10 years. It then transferred to Broadway in 1991 and had a long run there as well, finally closing in 2001 after 4,092 performances. At the time, it was the 13th longest running Broadway show in history. Because of its huge success, there have been numerous touring and international productions over the years. But the definitive original production closed in London in 1999.
Is Miss Saigon Still Playing?
Even though the original production closed years ago, Miss Saigon continues to be staged regularly by theaters around the world. Here are some of the places you can still see the show:
West End Revival
After being closed for over 15 years in London, a major West End revival of Miss Saigon opened in 2014 in celebration of the show’s 25th anniversary. It was staged at the Prince Edward Theatre, with a multi-million dollar set and hi-tech updates to the staging. This acclaimed production closed in February 2016.
UK and Ireland Tour
A UK national tour of Miss Saigon launched in 2018 and is still ongoing as of 2023. It visits major theaters all across Britain and Ireland. Upcoming scheduled performances on the tour include Edinburgh, Liverpool, Birmingham, and more.
North American Tour
There is currently a North American tour of Miss Saigon that launched in 2018. It has been crossing the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Some of its upcoming stops in 2023 include Austin, TX; Pittsburgh, PA; and Costa Mesa, CA. This acclaimed production features impressive sets and costumes re-created from the original.
International Productions
In addition to the touring productions, Miss Saigon remains popular on the international stage. Here are some of the countries where you can catch a production in 2023:
- Philippines
- Japan
- Germany
- Australia
- South Korea
- China
- UAE
- New Zealand
Major theaters from around the world have continued to stage the show. So if you’re taking a trip abroad, be sure to check if Miss Saigon is running during your visit.
Regional Productions
In addition to the national tours and global productions, Miss Saigon is a popular choice for regional theaters in North America. Productions are frequently staged by local theater companies in major cities across the U.S. and Canada. For example, you may find the show playing at theaters in Houston, Seattle, Minneapolis, and more in 2023. Check your local theater listings to see if Miss Saigon is coming to your area.
Key Elements of Miss Saigon Productions
When you go see Miss Saigon today, you’ll still experience all the key elements that made the original production so powerful:
Musical Numbers
You simply can’t have Miss Saigon without its iconic music by Claude-Michel Schönberg. The score features several powerful ballads that have become musical theater standards, like “I Still Believe,” “Why God Why,” and “Movie in My Mind.” Any modern production will include all your favorite melodies.
Set Design
Miss Saigon is known for its impressive sets recreating locations like a Saigon bar and Bangkok nightclub. Current productions use innovative techniques like projections to visually transport the audience to Vietnam and beyond. While the helicopter landing is no longer feasible, other technical wizardry still amazes.
Costumes
The period costumes are an essential part of setting the scene and culture. Kim’s ornate wedding dress in particular is a stunning staple of the show. Modern productions go all out on recreating the detailed wardrobe that brings you back in time.
Emotional Impact
With its tales of love, loss, and the costs of war, Miss Saigon packs a powerful dramatic punch. Any good production will move you to tears and leave you thinking for days afterwards. The tragic love story provides catharsis no matter where you see the show performed.
How to Get Tickets
If you want to experience Miss Saigon for yourself, getting tickets is relatively straightforward. Here are some tips:
Touring Shows
If Miss Saigon is touring in your area, the best way to get tickets is directly through the venue’s website once dates are announced. You can also sometimes get tickets through ticket vendors like Ticketmaster. Buying early ensures the best deals and seat selection.
Regional Theaters
For local productions, check the theater company’s website for ticket information. You can buy directly from the box office online or in person. Subscribing to the theater season is often an option for the best prices.
London West End
Although the last West End revival closed in 2016, future revivals may happen. WestEndTheatre.com provides updated info on London shows. Tickets can be purchased online or in person at the theater box office once dates are announced.
International Shows
For productions abroad, check the official website of the theater. Many major venues like Marina Bay Sands in Singapore have online ticketing. Your hotel concierge may also have info on acquiring tickets through local contacts.
Conclusion
While it isn’t currently playing on Broadway, Miss Saigon remains a vibrant theatrical sensation around the globe. Thanks to touring productions and regional theaters, you still have plenty of opportunities to experience this classic musical. The powerful story, sweeping score, and spectacular staging combine to create an unforgettable evening of live theater. With its themes of love and war, Miss Saigon continues to resonate with audiences today. So if you love great musical storytelling, start making plans now to get tickets the next time this acclaimed show comes to your corner of the world.