Sometimes, you see a theatre show that leaves you so breathtaken (in a good way) that you can’t write about it. Where do you start? What do you say? How do you put such excellence into words? That breathtaking show is Hamilton, and good news for you local Midlands people is that it’s at Birmingham Hippodrome until the end of August 2024, so you too can experience it first hand and struggle like me, to turn it into words that give it even half the justice that it deserves.
For those (like me) who might not fully know what the musical is about before seeing it, “Hamilton” tells the story of Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s Founding Fathers. Created by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the show is based on Ron Chernow’s biography of Hamilton and uses a diverse cast and a unique blend of hip-hop, R&B, and traditional musical theatre to bring history to life.
The musical explores Hamilton’s journey from an immigrant orphan to becoming George Washington’s right-hand man during the Revolutionary War and the first Secretary of the Treasury. It delves into his complex relationships, political rivalries, and personal struggles, highlighting themes of ambition, legacy, and the impact of history on the present day.
You don’t need to be a history buff to enjoy it, nor do you need to be into rap music. It all comes together in such a way that it appeals to everyone. A really cleverly created production that has one of the most talented casts I think I have ever watched. Who knew that history and contemporary music could blend so seamlessly and listening to the whoops and cheers in the crowd, the rest of the audience agreee. Hamilton is THE show to watch – profoundly moving and educational. What more could you want.
Each cast member delivered an astonishing performance. From their vocal prowess to their impeccable, completely flawless choreography. The energy on the stage filtering into the audience and after each scene an eruption of cheers and claps from an audience who are so very wowed by the performances.
The songs are ones that stay in your head and will leave you wanting to find the soundtrack to listen to at home. There’s energetic and catchy songs such as ” My Shot”, which introduces Hamilton’s (Shaq Taylor) drive and ambition and mesmerising songs such as “The Room Where It Happens” where Aaron Burr’s (Sam Oladeinde) envy and desire for political influence is laid bare.
But Eliza’s (Maya Britto) ballad “Burn” is where my eyes welled up (not for the first time) with her phenomenal vocals, sung with raw emotion. Elizas voice has that jaw-dropping effect as she has the audience in the palm of her hand every time she sings. But this particular song, shares the journey from devoted wife to broken hearted widow and the rawness has you feeling as if you too have lost a family member.
King George (Daniel Boys) brings the (absurd) British Monarchys perspective on the events happening across the Atlantic, performed with a mixture of humour, charm and menace (there’s definitely a Dennis the Menace feel here). His first song, “You’ll Be Back,” expresses his disbelief at their desire for independence and insisting they will eventually come back to British rule. The comical element (not just lyrics but his facial expressions and movement on the stage) really adds to the production. And by his final song, “I Know Him,” the audience laughs the moment he appears on the stage. His role is the perfect accompaniment to the otherwise intense and dramatic aspects of the show.
It’s not just the acting, singing and choreography that deserves a shout out though. This performance oozes perfection in all areas. The orchestra! Just wow! The lighting, superb! Feeling sad, blue lights. Anger? Red lights. All cleverly done, really adding to the whole experience. And the clever use of sound and the timing of everything. Every movement and sound performed at the exact millisecond it was due.
Go and see this show for yourself, it’s one that will stay with you for a very long time and it’s one of those shows you’d be more than happy to watch, again and again. I already can’t wait to book tickets and watch it again.
Hamilton is at Birmingham Hippodrome until 31st August 2024 with tickets starting from £28. Don’t miss your chance to watch this outstanding production.
Disclaimer: This review was written after attending the media night performance. As always from Small House Big Trips, it’s a 100% honest review.