NEW YORK — This holiday season, theater enthusiasts have much to appreciate.

In the last year, we’ve enjoyed outstanding performances by Daniel Dae Kim (“Yellow Face”), Michael Urie (“Once Upon a Mattress”), Jessica Hecht (“Eureka Day”), and Laura Donnelly (“The Hills of California”). Off-Broadway, we were delighted by “Cats: The Jellicle Ball,” which reinvented Andrew Lloyd Webber’s well-known musical by placing it in a vibrant queer ballroom setting. Meanwhile, Danya Taymor impressed many with her brilliant direction of the Tony Award-winning best musical “The Outsiders,” taking it far beyond its origins in young-adult literature.

Here’s a look at some of our favorite Broadway highlights from the past year:

10. ‘Cult of Love’

Zachary Quinto and Barbie Ferreira lead a new play that explores a tumultuous family reunion where deep secrets emerge. This classic theater theme is turned on its head by playwright Leslye Headland (“Russian Doll”), whose sharp observations reveal why we often reconnect with those who have hurt us. Standout performances by Rebecca Henderson and Roberta Colindrez shine as the family’s rational black sheep, who face the wrath of Shailene Woodley’s fervent character.

Currently showing at the Hayes Theater until February 2.

9. ‘The Heart of Rock and Roll’

A year ago, it would have been hard to predict that a jukebox musical featuring the music of Huey Lewis would become one of Broadway’s top shows. Despite its limited run, we believe this show deserved a spot alongside hits like “Mamma Mia!” for its smart storytelling and inventive staging, centered around a three-day packing supplies conference. In an ideal world, McKenzie Kurtz would have received a Tony nomination for her standout performance in “It Hit Me Like a Hammer.”

It concluded its run at the James Earl Jones Theatre on June 23.

8. ‘Death Becomes Her’

While many musicals adapted from films stick too closely to their original material, Marco Pennette (“Ugly Betty”) successfully balances homage to the 1992 movie “Death Becomes Her” with a quirky, humorous critique of society’s obsession with beauty. The performances of Jennifer Simard and Megan Hilty as rival friends caught in a youthful obsession are both wildly entertaining, and the theatrical illusions are stunning.

Now playing at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre.

7. ‘An Enemy of the People’

Jeremy Strong received a Tony Award for Best Actor due to his intense performance as a 19^th-century doctor warning about an impending ecological catastrophe that no one listens to. Although Henrik Ibsen’s story is over a hundred years old, its messages about suspicion and false information feel alarmingly relevant today, and Sam Gold’s engaging direction fully immersed the audience in the drama.

This show ended on June 23 at the Circle in the Square Theatre.

6. ‘Sunset Boulevard’

For many gay men, a former Pussycat Doll singing Andrew Lloyd Webber songs is a basic necessity. While Jamie Lloyd’s minimalist, video-driven revival doesn’t succeed in every aspect, the bold choices made are indeed more thrilling than much of what Broadway offers currently. Nicole Scherzinger shines with her remarkable singing and a sense of haunting desperation as the aging Hollywood star Norma Desmond.

This show is currently running at the St. James Theatre.

5. ‘Mary Jane’

Rachel McAdams made a stunning stage debut in Amy Herzog’s gripping play “Mary Jane,” focusing on a single mother struggling to care for her ailing child. The Oscar-nominated actress infused the role with a charming demeanor and realism as her character seeks hope amid despair. Herzog’s deeply observant writing avoids simple sentiment, resulting in an ambiguous ending that continues to provoke conversation long after the show.

This show ended on June 30 at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre.

4. ‘Illinoise’

Broadway is undeniably lacking without Justin Peck’s incredible dance musical, which utilized songs from Sufjan Stevens to craft a beautiful tale of navigating through heartache and loss. Ricky Ubeda was exceptional, deserving every accolade for his emotionally resonant performance, while Rachel Lockhart and Byron Tittle captivated audiences with their mesmerizing dance routine in “Jacksonville.”

This show closed on August 10 at the St. James Theatre.

3. ‘Gypsy’

As of now, we don’t have much information to share about “Gypsy,” which is set to officially debut on December 19 at the Majestic Theatre (previously the long-time venue for “The Phantom of the Opera”). However, Audra McDonald is a remarkable talent, portraying the fiercely protective Mama Rose in this vibrant revival, giving new life to the beloved musical. Her rendition of “Rose’s Turn” could very well be the most tear-jerking one we’ve ever seen.

This show is currently running at the Majestic Theatre.

2. ‘Maybe Happy Ending’

Critics have praised “Maybe Happy Ending” as a rare gem on Broadway: a brand new musical that’s completely original. Yet, beyond its creativity, it’s simply an outstanding show. Darren Criss and Helen J Shen shine as two androids deeply in love, racing against the clock before they cease to exist. Filled with humor and poignant emotions, this poignant and enchanting work stands out as one of the most visually breathtaking productions to grace New York in years.

Currently showing at the Belasco Theatre.

1. ‘Oh, Mary!’

Mary Todd Lincoln, with her short stature and wild antics, has become a surprising sensation in pop culture, largely due to playwright and actor Cole Escola’s quirky vision. This tightly constructed, 80-minute comedy presents Lincoln as a spoiled recluse who consumes paint thinner and dreams of fame while bickering with her husband, portrayed by Conrad Ricamora. “Oh, Mary!” is wildly irreverent, unexpectedly heartfelt, and refreshingly inclusive, making it a Broadway experience that surpasses its enormous expectations. It’s like a delightful scoop of vanilla ice cream that unexpectedly lands in your lap—truly sensational.

Now playing at the Lyceum Theatre until June 28.