What began as a crazy idea with few supporters stemmed into the most impactful production of our time. 10 years ago, Lin Manuel Miranda’s lyrical genius and seemingly impossible idea came together to create the musical masterpiece that is “Hamilton.” It’s safe to say that history has its eyes on this revolutionary show.
I watched “Hamilton” for the first time when it began streaming five years ago. Being 10 years old, I was unsure whether or not I would get bored watching this three-hour-long musical. The minute the opening number began, those thoughts were put to rest. I was immediately captivated by the music, dancers, and incredible energy the cast brought. During “Alexander Hamilton,” the audience is introduced to prominent characters in the production, such as Aaron Burr (Leslie Odom Jr.), John Laurens (Anthony Ramos), Hercules Mulligan (Okieriete Onaodowan), Marquis de Lafayette (Daveed Diggs), Eliza Hamilton (Phillipa Soo), George Washington (Christopher Jackson), and of course, Alexander Hamilton (Lin Manuel Miranda). This number set the tone for the show, and Manuel Miranda’s emotional performance as Hamilton brought the scene together.
“Hamilton” was unlike any musical I’ve ever seen in the way that the ensemble members didn’t just disappear in the background. The talented performers added humor, intensity, and drama to each scene. I didn’t find myself focusing on only the main characters in the scene, but rather scanning the entirety of the stage and taking in all of the elements. In the musical number “Satisfied”, there is a scene where Angelica Schuyler (Renée Elise Goldsberry) rewinds to the moment where she introduced Alexander to her sister, Eliza. The music swells, an echo effect repeatedly projects the word “rewind”, the lights dim and spiral across the stage, and the dancers move in the opposite direction. These detail-oriented components made it feel like the scene was actually rewinding, which made the watch experience even more surreal.
One of the biggest parts of the musical that stood out to me was how memorable it was. Overall, U.S. History 1 students agree that the play was a memorable experience. Sophomore Clara McKinney agrees, saying “I think there is a reason that everybody knows every word. Remembering the lyrics help me in class, it is very useful to already know things about history.” Bryce Brookes elaborated, highlighting how “Lin Manuel Miranda is pretty fantastic. He truly has a way with words.” Each song in Hamilton corresponds to U.S. history, making it easier to understand what is taught in class. The lyrics and plot combined make for a catchy and fun way to remember what happens in every scene!
While “Hamilton” is loved by many, there are some who believe it’s not worth the hype. Sophomore Anika Jubair made it a point to explain that “ ‘Hamilton’ is too over-hyped. I feel like sometimes people want diversity in a show, and once they get that, they love it immediately without considering other aspects of the production.”
Personally, “Hamilton” was and remains my favorite musical to this day. Between the incredible set design, captivating characters brought to life, and insane vocal talent, nothing can compare to this musical masterpiece. I can only be grateful that Lin Manuel Miranda didn’t throw away his shot, but rather took it using the entirety of his soul.
