What appears to be a catchy, rap-infused musical, "Hamilton" the Broadway musical tells the story of America's hardworking founding father, Alexander Hamilton, who literally started from the bottom and made it all the way to the top. He was an orphan, to quote the opening song, Alexander Hamilton was a:
“Bastard, orphan, son of a whore and a Scotsman,
dropped in the middle of a forgotten spot
in the Caribbean by Providence, impoverished, in squalor
Grow up to be a hero and a scholar?”
A story of a man who started with nothing and became a Founding Father of the United States of America and the Secretary of the Treasury for this country. A musical inspiring hope, handwork, dedication and passion in all those who are consumed by it.
What's so spectacular about this musical, you ask? The combination of rich American history with pop culture in an effort to create an educational, informational and entertaining musical is astounding. The top-selling musical and winner of 11 Tony Awards is not that of Hollywood gossip or tales of damsels in distress, instead it is our rich American history on which the United States was founded. The latest excerpts in media are drawn away from the Kardashians or "Who Wore It Best" scenarios to history in the form of entertainment, something that has never been done before nor has trended on Broadway in New York City.
But since when has American history been so intriguing? Why, almost never! However, in listening to the soundtrack and watching live performances, the rhythm of the music, the storytelling of the hip hop dances show that any rap performer in the 21st century could preform these songs, examples such as Drake, Nicki Minaj or Kanye West? Therefore targeting a niche audience that the musical theater industry has never targeted or attracted before. With the box office selling out, ticket prices raising, and 11 Tony Awards, Broadway targeted a great audience, drawing in much more revenue and attention than ever expected before. Children, teenagers and adults around the country are gushing over this hip musical, catchy songs and dance moves paying thousands of dollars for a ticket to see this musical on the big stage.
Who knew that American history could be catchy, interesting and popular on Broadway!
