The next Broadway sensation

The next Broadway sensation -- We decide which musical could become ''Rent'''s successor

With their fresh-faced casts and Off Broadway roots, these musicals should be obvious successors. On a scale of 1 to 5, how likely are they to light Broadway’s candle?

1. Spring Awakening
Pros
High visibility (Gap ads! Letterman!); a sound that’s more rock than show tunnel a potent fan base. Eight Tonys don’t hurt, either.
Cons
Simulated masturbation and lyrics like ”totally f—ed” may not play in Peoria.
Rent-ability: 4.5/5

2. In The Heights
Pros
Inventive, varied score (salsa, merengue, rap); hip NYC setting; already dubbed ”an uptown Rent.”
Cons
The last Latino musical that broke out big with white-bread Broadway audiences was, um…
Rent-ability: 3/5

3. Passing Strange
Pros
Pulsating, soul-funk-R&B-fusion songs; bohemian hero; globetrotting story line.
Cons
Star/co-creator Stew (of the band the Negro Problem) isn’t a household name. And will anyone get that Shakespearean title?
Rent-ability: 1/5

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