Different shows with similar plots

A friend recently explained all the similarities between the basic premise of The King and I and The Sound of Music which surprised me. (Free spirited single woman meets authoritarian attached man, immediately at odds, helps raise the children, but eventually find love)

I noticed that despite the huge difference in tone and execution, both Come From Away was strikingly similar in premise to The Band's Visit.

Group of travelling foreigners get unexpectedly stranded. They are received by remote locals, who extend basic hospitality, food, and accommodation. Both the hosts and their guests learn about each other and themselves in subtle and profound ways before the travelers leave for their original destination.

Does anyone have any other examples of shows that seem completely different yet share the same basic plot lines?

Mamma Mia! has the same plot as flop musical Carmelina.

Be More Chill is very similar to Little Shop of Horrors, besides the ending - they're both different adaptations of Faust, I believe. The nerdy, unpopular protagonist tries to get the girl through an influential, charismatic villain with unintended consequences.

Broadway Buddy said: "When I was watching Evan Hansen for the first time a couple weeks ago (same night as backfire which was scary) I was comparing it a lot with Be More Chill which I saw twice. They’re both about a high schooler who finds a way to get attention. "

I feel like that comparison is very, very broad.

La Boheme basically stole the plot of Rent.

Victor/Victoria and The Producers

Two dissimilar people are brought together, one has a plan and the other grudgingly joins in but later becomes enamored with the fame it brings. They deceive the masses via a stage show. But love gets in the way. Eventually the ruse is uncovered and the two remain dear friends.

I don't think anyone noticed, but I feel like West Side Story has far too many similarities with Romeo and Juliet

Fosse76 said: "Playbill_Trash said: "Waitress and Sweeney Todd are basically the same:

People with troubled past relationships use baking to cope with their feelings. Each pie is inspired by someone they’ve encountered and contains their best qualities, making their business a success."

That's a bit of a stretch. The baking in Sweeney Todd is about the disposal of evidence."

Definitely a stretch but also funny as hell.

”Best qualities.”