Guide to Broadway shows for non-English speakers

Get answers to all your questions about translation resources available at Broadway shows, and discover recommendations for shows that defy language barriers.

Theatre has the power to unite people from all countries and backgrounds — millions of global tourists come to Broadway shows in New York City every year. Nearly all Broadway shows are performed in English, but even if you don't know the language, that won't stop you from enjoying the colorful sets and costumes, energetic dance moves, and thrilling music.

Those who speak English as a second language, or even no English at all, can still find great entertainment on Broadway and beyond. Read below for answers to frequently asked questions about Broadway translation services, and discover our recommendations for New York shows accessible to all.

Get tickets to Broadway shows on New York Theatre Guide.

Are Broadway shows performed in other languages?

Most Broadway shows are performed exclusively in English. Certain shows may include select lyrics or lines of dialogue in other languages, depending on the setting of the show or the cultural heritage of its characters.

You're more likely to find non-English theatre off Broadway, though it's still somewhat rare. Recent examples include The Public Theater's bilingual musical adaptation of Shakespeare's A Comedy of Errors, performed in English and Spanish; and St. Ann's Warehouse's 2025 production of Blind Runner, performed in Farsi with English supertitles.

Do Broadway shows have translations?

Select Broadway venues have translation devices available for its shows, usually available to borrow for free at the theatre.

Additionally, select Broadway shows have language translation available via the GalaPro app, which you can download on your phone to view subtitles in your own language for a $5 fee.

Available languages for both these services vary. Learn more about accessibility measures at Broadway theatres, including which ones have translation devices available.

Do Broadway shows have subtitles?

Most Broadway shows are not performed with subtitles. Most shows, however, do have live captioning devices, audio description devices, and more available to borrow for free at the theatre. Certain shows also utilize apps that allow you to download subtitles and captions onto your own phone.

Additionally, select Broadway and Off-Broadway shows will have designated performances that are interpreted in American Sign Language, or at which audio descriptions and/or captions are broadcast to the whole audience. These performances, if there are any, will be noted on the show's page on our site.

All these accessibility options, however, are usually only available in English.

Learn more about accessibility measures at Broadway theatres.

Best Broadway shows for non-English speakers

If you are attending the theatre with a limited understanding of English, your best bet is either a show with a globally popular story or one where the music and visuals are more important than the words. Here are some suggestions for the best shows for non-English speakers in New York.

The Lion King

This Disney story is beloved by people all over the world. Children of all ages and backgrounds grew up with the story of the young lion cub Simba, who learns how to be a respected king like his father before him.

Songs like "Circle of Life" and "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" are classics, and parts of the show are sung in African languages like Swahili and Zulu. Plus, the Broadway production is a visual marvel, with gorgeous puppetry representing all kinds of wildlife.

Get The Lion King tickets now.

Aladdin

This Disney show, set in a fictional kingdom in Arabia, follows a street urchin who falls in love with a beautiful princess — with the help of a wish-granting genie and a flying carpet. And yes, it really does fly on stage! Audiences are immersed in a whole new world at this adaptation of the animated movie.

Get Aladdin tickets now.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Harry Potter fans worldwide will see tons of beloved characters from J. K. Rowling's books and movies in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. This play, a sequel to the original series, follows the next generation of wizards on a time-traveling adventure, which unfolds with truly magical special effects.

Get Harry Potter and the Cursed Child tickets now.

MJ The Musical

Groove along with Michael Jackson! Whether or not you know the words to his songs, you're sure to be energized by the catchy music and iconic dance moves that made him the "King of Pop." MJ The Musical, about Jackson's life and career, is an electrifying spectacle that will make you feel like you're at a concert.

Get MJ The Musical tickets now.

The Metropolitan Opera

All Metropolitan Opera performances offer live subtitles — displayed right on the seat in front of you — in English, Spanish, and German. Italian subtitles are also available for Italian-language operas. No matter what language you speak, though, the opera isn't about understanding every word; it's about marveling at the grandeur of the sets, costumes, and music.

Get tickets to Metropolitan Opera shows now.

Ballet or dance show

Language barriers aren't an issue when there are no words at all! Watch a thrilling story unfold through movement at a New York dance show. Performances in all genres — ballet, modern, tap, jazz, and more — are always playing in New York at theatres big and small, and international dance companies often visit for limited-run performances.

Browse the latest New York dance shows and get tickets to one that interests you.