Top ten musicals

Musicals may have been making us laugh and cry from as far back as 550BC, but even today their charm has remained.

Whether on stage or on screen, musicals offer unique relief from the sometimes hectic world.

Admittedly the sheer number of musicals can be a little off-putting, but hopefully the following top ten list will help put shows into perspective.

10. Billy Elliot The Musical (Victoria Palace Theatre, London)

Yes, you've probably seen the film but the musical version is arguably even more heartwarming.

This musical comes very highly recommended having won numerous awards, including four Laurence Olivier Awards in 2006 alone, and the New York Times even hailed the transatlantic version as 'almost like being in love.'

Good tickets can be expensive, so booking in advance is advised for the cash strapped amongst us, or else take advantage of the regular special offers.

9. Evita (Film, 1996)

This musical film was responsible for launching the career of a then young popstrel named Madonna to dizzying heights.

Based on the life of Eva Duarte, who was known as 'Evita' to supporters, the film effectively demonstrates her impact on Argentina and her tremendous strength of character.

Iconic, inspirational and truly unforgettable, this film quite rightly wowed the critics and crowds alike on release.

8. West Side Story (Film, 1961)

Undoubtedly a musical that can be enjoyed across the generations, West Side Story has been billed as a masterpiece ever since it was first premiered.

Retelling the classic Shakespeare tragedy of Romeo and Juliet by substituting the Montagues and the Capulets for two rival New York gangs may seem unconventional, but the plot remains captivating.

The choreography has to be seen to be believed, which is perhaps unsurprising as the choreographer was sacked due to his extensive rehearsals as the producers were afraid that they may stray over the budget.

7. Miss Saigon (On worldwide tour)

Although it is often seen as a less well-known musical, Miss Saigon has in fact been seen by more than 31 million people in 18 different countries.

As a modern adaptation of Madame Butterfly, the story unfolds as Vietnamese bar girl falls for an American GI and becomes pregnant shortly before he returns home.

She desperately hopes to be reunited with her baby's father as she yearns for him to have a better life in America, but in order for this to occur she must agree to a great sacrifice.

Although it is one of the most upsetting musicals I have ever seen, the songs are amazing, in particular Sun and Moon and Paper Dragons.

6. Les Misérables (Queen's Theatre, London)

Still going strong after 22 years, this production of Victor Hugo's best known novel documents the intertwined lives of several French characters in the 1800s.

The show examines what is wrong, right, good and bad through the shaky redemption of the protagonist Jean Valjean.

With 392 costume changes, 1782 items of clothing and 31 wigs per performance, authenticity is and always has been key, despite several changes of location over the years. 12»