Last year, I first came in contact with something that would change my life forever. "Hamilton" is a musical about our founding father Alexander Hamilton. I know what you're thinking—it sounds like a snooze. But Lin-Manuel Miranda has managed to bring the tale to the stage with all the pizzazz it deserves. There's action, romance, scandal—and Thomas Jefferson rapping. Here are some of the many reasons why I'm obsessed with Hamilton, and why you should be, too.
1) The Music
This one may seem obvious, but the foundation of the musical is hip-hop, which makes it a bit different from most musicals, but suuuuuuper catchy. David Diggs, the original Thomas Jefferson/La Fayette, originated the fastest rap on Broadway in this musical!
2) The Diversity
Put your stereotypes aside, the "Hamilton" cast tells the story in a way such that the characters reflect "What America looks like today," according to the show's creator (and originating A. Ham) Lin-Manuel Miranda. This aspect of the show makes it more relatable to so many people, and has helped immensely to make the show a game changer.
3) The History
The musical depicts one of the most dramatic times in history in the most entertaining way possible! Who wouldn't love that?
4) The Relatable Characters and Moments
Everyone can find someone to relate to in this show! Some of my favorite relatable characters are the Schuyler sisters! (WORK!)
Whether you're jamming out to the cast recording in your car or actually in "The Room Where It Happens," the energy you will get from this musical is pretty insane.
6) The Talented Cast, Crew, and Orchestra
The original cast, crew, and orchestra helped to win the show 11 Tonys this season, leading to high expectations for those next to fill their shoes.7) The Set and Costumes
Because it wasn't magical enough without the turntable part of the floor, balcony, or relatively tight pants.
8) Lin-Manuel Miranda
Just the thought that this whole musical is indebted to the one amazing dude is enough of a reason (he wrote the book, music, and starred as A. Ham in the original cast, which is pretty impressive, plus he's ace at freestyling).
9) The Great Messages and Themes
Hamilton teaches several important lessons. One of the main lessons it teaches is that the underdog can do remarkable things, even if they mess up along the way.
10) The Connection Among Fans
If you wear "Hamilton" merch around campus, you're sure to get comments about how awesome it is. The friendships and connections you can make with other "Hamilton" fans is what makes this musical not just revolutionary, but remarkable.
