" Hamilton," the new hip-hop and rap musical that has been sweeping the nation for the past few months, is continuing to amaze live audiences in New York City as well as listeners at home who have bought the soundtrack. Charles McNulty of the LA Times proclaims that "Hamilton" is the ”most important American musical to come along since 'Rent.'”
Tickets for the show are becoming increasingly difficult to get hands on. Numerous shows have been added since the show took off, but viewers may have more luck affording tickets when the show eventually starts touring. On most ticketing websites, prices are well over $200 for a seat in the mezzanine, with orchestra seats jumping to over $1,000 per ticket.
If you can’t afford a ticket or wait until the tour, don’t panic! You can still experience "Hamilton" to some degree from your own home by purchasing the album for $19.99 from the iTunes store, or by purchasing a physical copy of the album at stores such as Newbury Comics. The album is a great way to whet your appetite for the amazing show, and the recording cast has been nominated for a Grammy.
What makes "Hamilton" such a stand out musical? It takes a very interesting piece of history — the life of founding father Alexander Hamilton — and presents in a way that is relatable, catchy, and fun. This isn’t just a boring social studies lesson; it is a story of love triangles, betrayal, political feuds, and family. It’s a story that will inspire many, and teach all of us a little bit about the history of our nation, and about ourselves.
Some of the stand out musical numbers include “My Shot,” in which Lin-Manuel Miranda, who not only plays Alexander Hamilton but also wrote and developed the musical, raps and sings about his drive and ambition in revolutionary politics.
In “Satisfied,” Angelica Schuyler, sister of Eliza (Schuyler) Hamilton, sings and raps about the first time she met Alexander. She falls in love with him, but quickly gives him up to her sister. Angelica and Eliza are played by Renee Elise Goldsberry and Phillipa Soo, respectively.
“Wait for It,” sung by Aaron Burr and portrayed by Leslie Odom, Jr. is another catchy hit from the show. Burr sings about his unlawful relationship with a British officer’s wife, the death of friends, and explains his motives for always being opposed to Alexander Hamilton’s ideals.
Finally, “It’s Quiet Uptown,” arguably the most heart-wrenching song in the show, sung by Alexander, Angelica, and Eliza, speaks to the heartbreak of losing a child, and how “unimaginable” the pain can be.
There is a lot of talk about the Tony’s, which are a few months out. However, it has been decided that Lin-Manuel Miranda, playing Alexander Hamilton, and Leslie Odom, Jr, playing Aaron Burr, will both be eligible for the lead actor nomination. Phillipa Soo, playing Eliza (Schuyler) Hamilton, will be eligible for the nomination for lead actress.
