It’s Christmas and what would the festive season be without some recognition of the best of 2017? Over the next few days we’ll shortlist five nominees in each of 13 categories for our Oscars, or monstas if you will, of 2017.

• Read on for nominees for the monsta for Musical of the year. 2016 winner: Groundhog Day

1. Big Fish (Other Palace) Tickets Runs to 31/12/17

2. Everybody’s Talking About Jamie (Sheffield Crucible, then Apollo Theatre) Tickets Booking to 21/4/18

3. Follies (National Theatre) Tickets Runs to 3/1/18

4. Hamilton (Victoria Palace Theatre) Tickets Booking to 28/7/18

5. La Cage Aux Folles (touring production)

• Who should win? Tell us in the comments below. Want to know why we like this shortlist? Click on the tags to read our reviews. Winner revealed 30/12/17.
• Enjoyed this shortlist? Follow its author on Twitter @NeilDurham, email neildurham3@gmail.com and check us out on Instagram and Facebook