If I could have dinner with anyone dead or alive I would without hesitation choose Lin-Manuel Miranda—the genius behind Hamilton: The Musical if you’ve been living under a rock.
I have never before had an interest in U.S. History, or even musicals, to be honest. However, as soon as I heard Hamilton, my mind was changed. He created a work of art in a way that taught me so much while simultaneously giving me the chills.
"Look around, look around at how lucky we are to be alive right now," is a quote from Lin-Manuel Miranda's musical that has struck the U.S. by force with its complexity and pure entertainment factor.
Not only has the musical contributed to society politically, but educationally. Most people, including myself, probably didn't know much about the “forgotten” founding father Alexander Hamilton.
The political movement that it sparked was revolutionary. “Immigrants—we get the job done” is one of many lyrics fighting for immigrant rights. Lin-Manuel Miranda used his celebrity for a greater good to stand up for what he believes in.
One of my favorite Hamilton moments was when Mike Pence made an appearance at the show and the cast made sure to send him a message. They prepared a speech that explained their concerns about Pence and Trump’s administration plans, prompting the audience to then boo him as he walked out. This incident went viral and even if it didn’t change any of the ideas of the Republican party, it made a statement.
Miranda brought attention to Hamilton's contributions to our country in a new and fun way: rap.
Not only is Hamilton’s story told through song, but rap. Including rap battles to insinuate a cabinet discussion, as well as ballads and upbeat pop-like songs, Miranda has brought together different genres to create the best musical to hit Broadway.
Not only did Hamilton: The Musical change my life, but struck the United States with an important and influential message.
