Glasgow-born Stephen Ashfield is currently making his Broadway debut in the Tony-winning The Book of Mormon in the role of Elder McKinley, a part that earned the actor an Olivier Award in the London cast of the hit musical. Here, the singing actor, whose West End credits also include Bob Gaudio in Jersey Boys, Casey O'Brien in Boy Meets Boy, and Emmett in Legally Blonde, recalls the theatregoing experiences that most affected him as part of the audience.

Lord of the Rings, West End

I saw this musical at Theatre Royal Drury Lane back in 2007 and was blown away. Still one of my favorite albums to listen to. Listening to "Wonder" or "Star of Eärendil" immediately brings back the mesmerising performances of Laura Michelle Kelly and Rosalie Craig. Those other-worldly sets were epic.

Hello, Dolly!, Broadway

I am ashamed to admit I had never seen the movie or another production before. Bette Midler…eating turkey…in that red plume…I almost peed myself. Comedy gold! And my pal, Gavin Creel, is unsurprisingly glorious!

Dreamgirls, West End

Vocals for days! The long-awaited debut production in London certainly does not disappoint. It sparkles! Amber Riley, Liisi LaFontaine, and Asmeret Ghebremichael are simply divine.

The Strange Undoing of Prudencia Hart, McKittrick Hotel

Technically not Broadway, but sooooooo bloody good! This incredible National Theatre of Scotland piece arrived in NYC at the perfect time to quell my pangs of homesickness. Singing, dancing on tables, and fantastical tales in rhyme. And the odd whisky. Scottish enough?

Waitress, Broadway

After three helpings of this beautiful show, I’m still hungry for more! I honestly could watch it every week. No amount of Christopher Fitzgerald is ever too much. 

Change, Arturo Brachetti, West End

I'm a sucker for illusion. Few things compare to witnessing a magical quick change right in front of your eyes. This guy is a master. My mouth was open for two whole hours. Google him. 

Nikki Renée Daniels in Book of Mormon, Broadway

I get to stand in the stage left wing every performance and watch Nikki sing “Sal Tlay Ka Siti.” I could honestly listen to her sing the actual Book of Mormon from cover to cover. 

Gypsy, West End

I had to call in every favour owed to me to get a ticket to see the unstoppable Imelda Staunton in London. 

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, West End 

This magical production will soon be open on Broadway… It is unspeakably good. #keepthesecrets

Les Misérables, West End

This was the first musical I ever saw onstage. The impact of what I saw, in writing, in direction, and in individual performances still lives with me today. A classic.