Theater Across the Country

While many people consider Broadway to be the holy grail of American drama, there are plenty of outstanding theater performances going on across the country. Here are five such shows that are earning rave reviews in areas of the United States besides New York:

Based on the Four Seasons, Jersey Boys has been called a documentary/musical since it made its Broadway debut in November 2005. Complete with a large catalogue of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons' songs, the show is now playing in California to delighted audiences.

Alice Walker's brilliant novel inspired this musical, which has touched audiences for more than a year. With a strong cast and beautiful music, the show is enjoying a long run at Cadillac Palace in Chicago.

This show has something for all ages. The uplifting story of Simba the lion and all of his friends come to life in an energetic and delightful production. A perfect choice for families, The Lion King will be playing in Florida, Wisconsin, Kentucky, Texas and New York in the coming months.

Some things you can only find in Vegas, and this Beatles-themed Cirque du Soleil production is one such thing. Boasting a generous selection of Beatles songs, the show combines music, theatrics and athletics of that kind that only Cirque du Soleil can provide. It plays in a special theater in the Mirage Hotel.

While Wicked is still running on Broadway, a tour has been going on for some time. In the next few months, the show is scheduled to stop in Houston and Dallas, Texas, among other places. A critical and commercial success, the fascinating story about the Witches of Oz looks set to continue its tour for a while.