Love triangles make for intense emotions and delicious drama. (The producers of The Bachelor figured that one out and exploit it to the nth degree.)
A plot device used since Greek mythology (when sisters Hera and Demeter both slept with Zeus, gasp!) to the times of Shakespeare (with star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet and the wealthy Paris), the love triangle continues to be a staple in theatre. In musicals, it has led to such brilliant unrequited love power ballads as Les Misérables “On My Own” and Hamilton’s “Satisfied,” as well as beautiful three-part harmonies in “A Heart Full of Love” or “The Phantom’s Lair.”
Do you know all 20 of these Broadway love triangles? Scroll through the full gallery:
Ruthie Fierberg is Playbill's former executive editor of features and branded content. She is also a freelance writer, moderator, and podcaster. Find more at RuthieFierberg.com.