The hit musical" Hamilton" hosted at the Richard Rodgers Theatre has been the biggest musical hit of the century, if not ever. A single ticket, without most of the original cast, is currently $399.00 at the cheapest and soared over $1,000 with the original cast. Earning 11 Tonys, the highest regarded award in theatre, "Hamilton" has good reason to have been on top and continue to do so. The musical is "non-stop!" Amazingly enough, the love for this musical in the public light has yet to decline with the writer, composer, and lyricist Lin Manuel-Miranda starring on SNL on October 8, 2016.
Anyway, here are 5 reasons everyone loves "Hamilton" and if you don't already, these are 5 reasons why you should:
1. Lin-Manuel Miranda (Alexander Hamilton)
Lin-Manuel Miranda is far and above the most lovable, and intricate, part of the musical "Hamilton." In the initial cast list, he played the esteemed Alexander Hamilton, the star of the self-titled musical. While this is a remarkable achievement, Lin-Manuel Miranda also wrote the entire musical! That's not all folks, "just you wait". He also composed the music and wrote the lyrics. It may seem absolutely insane, but this musical took 7 years to compose. However, this is not Lin's first time on the Broadway stage. "In The Heights" is the other musical that Lin composed. Winning 4 Tonys, Lin starred as the lead character, Usnavi. At 36 years old, Lin has many Tonys, Grammys, Best Musical awards, and countless other accolades.
2. The Music
As a musical, the music should be regarded as a priority. In "Hamilton," the music is impossible to capture in words. To grasp the quality of the music, one must listen to the entire musical— all 46 songs, in order, and about 37 million times. The transitions are so finely crafted that, occasionally, one can hardly notice the song change. As a kid, Lin did not have the privilege to experience Broadway for himself, but this soundtrack makes it possible to experience Broadway anywhere you go. Without the rough transitions or dialogue between songs, the music flows just as if you're sitting in the Richard Rodger Theatre. Stop asking yourself "what'd I miss?" and listen to the soundtrack!3. Leslie Odom Jr. (Aaron Burr)
Leslie Odom Jr., the original Aaron Burr, brought an impressive entity to the stage. While Lin was a man who could sing well, Leslie Odom Jr. brought a voice as smooth as silk. Besides the exceptional voice of Leslie Odom Jr., his portrayal of Aaron Burr was beyond perfect. Listening to the soundtrack, one can actually hear and imagine the character development Lin wrote, and Leslie beautifully executed. Listening to his beautiful jazz voice, it makes everyone want to be in "the room where it happens."
4. The Costumes
The costumes of "Hamiton" are beyond impressive. Looking at photos, GIFs, videos, or live, one can see the thought, time, and care that went into these masterpieces. From the boots to the colonial jackets, these costumes will make you think you're back in the late 1700's and early 1800's. The art of this play ranges from the gorgeous music to the stunning costumes. Honestly, it should "blow us all away." When you hear your doorbell ring this October 31st, you'd better expect quite a few tots, and adults, to be wearing the costumes from "Hamilton."
5. The Entire Cast
An integral part often forgotten when listening to musicals is the cast. "Hamilton" has one of the most talented casts, from the principle characters right on down to the ensemble. They are the unsung heroes of this show. Day in and day out, these men and women show up, act, and sing their hearts out for little to no praise from the audience. So "take a break" from whatever you're doing and listen to the show!
Don't "throw away your shot;" listen to the music of "Hamilton" now! You're truly missing out if you don't let this music grace your ears.