For fans of "Hamilton," the Broadway musical detailing the life and death of Alexander Hamilton, life has not been kind. Creator Lin-Manuel Miranda is a genius on all accounts, but he’s also one sadistic fellow, introducing to the world an engaging examination and character study of one of our most underrated Founding Fathers through hip-hop and R&B-influenced songs, only for the majority of us to be unable to watch it live. Its exclusive availability to New Yorkers has driven me into an emotional malaise. I only survive by reveling in the cold comfort that the entire soundtrack is available on Spotify. It’s definitely a drag, or bummer, or stinker (really, any outdated lingo for “sucks” is perfectly apt in describing this feeling of helplessness).
Luckily, there are several entertaining musical-esque shows to keep our sadness at bay until "Hamilton" becomes available for viewing through some sort of video-streaming magic.
Galavant
"Galavant" is a musical comedy set in the Middle Ages, with a twist on the common fairytale ending that most shows have. With Alan Menkens ("Enchanted," "Tangled") and Glen Slater (Broadway’s "A Little Mermaid") in charge of writing the lyrics and music, the show has taken great fun in having ridiculous concepts for their songs each episode. "Galavant" is a lighthearted, slapstick comedy that’s fun to watch.
Featured songs: "Off With His Shirt," "Comedy Gold," "Togetherness," "Secret Mission"
Availability: Hulu
Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog
Neil Patrick Harris stars as a sensitive, evil genius who’s kind of bad at being evil. This sing-along blog details Dr. Horrible’s attempts to gain entry into the Evil League of Evil. Written by Josh Whedon ("Avengers," "Buffy The Vampire Slayer"), this musical provides a perfect combo of laughs and tears.
Featured Songs: "My Freeze Ray," "A Man’s Gotta Do," "Brand New Day"
Availability: YouTube
Jesus Christ Superstar
This 1970 rock opera was first on Broadway before it was turned into a film (high hopes for "Hamilton" to follow suit!). This musical follows Judas Iscariot and highlights his growing resentment and conflicted feelings towards Jesus. Presented as a tragic character, Judas’s journey is a story worth watching.
Featured Songs: "Heaven On Their Minds," "Damned For All Time / Blood Money"
Availability: Sadly, it’s no longer on streaming sites, but you can easily buy the DVD.
Glee
Hahaha. Sorry. Couldn’t help myself.
Featured Songs: n/a
Availability: Sure, knock yourself out. All seasons are on Netflix.
