As the curtain rose on Hamilton Wednesday night, I felt the peculiar urge to strap in, much as I would on a thrilling roller coaster ride. The Broadway phenomenon did not disappoint.
The musical, which returns to Kansas City’s Music Hall through April 2, tells the story of Alexander Hamilton through hip hop, pop, jazz, R&B, and traditional melodic Broadway renditions. It is also the story of the founding of America and weaves historical figures such as Aaron Burr, Jefferson, Madison, George Washington, Marquis de Lafayette, Hercules Mulligan and others into the story line.
History comes alive in perhaps the most captivating and rousing musical since Les Miserables But here it’s not the revengeful French revolution but grand the democratic experiment that is America formed by a foundation of loyalty, the desire for political power, and numerous dynamic and selfless personalities. However, it is the universal emotions of love of fathers, mothers, treachery, and a wife’s forgiveness that rivets you to your seat.
Every so often a musical comes along that is done right. With Hamilton’s lively choreography, energetic songs, and dynamic performances it melds audiences of different generations and will likely live on for generations to come. Hamilton premiered Off Broadway on February 17, 2015 and won eight Drama Desk Awards including Outstanding Musical. It then moved to the Richard Rodgers Theatre on Broadway on August 6, 2015 subsequently breaking box office records. It received a historic 16 Tony nominations and won 11 awards, including Best Musical. The musical is inspired by the book Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow. The music and lyrics are by Lin-Manuel Miranda.
READ: The Chosen meets Hamilton
If it is your first time to go the Hamilton, be ready to do a little homework, otherwise, it will seem like you have been hit by a hurricane (or finished your roller coaster ride without a seatbelt). You would be prudent to listen to the music and read about Hamilton’s life. With the quick pace of the production, you do not want to be left behind.
Kansas City native Bryson provided a top notched portrayal of Hamilton while Josh Tower’s (Aaron Burr) impressive vocals brought thunderous applause from the audience. Deejay Young’s Jefferson had the right combination of charm and charisma.
But while many of the songs are rousing and filled with youthful energy, the ballads will touch your soul as they give us insight into the joys and pain of several characters.
The choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler leaves you breathless.
Hamilton is a must see. Although it is steeped in history, it displays humor and gravitas in a PG-13 setting (for language). Make attending it a reality–you do not want to throw away your shot!
The musical is showing at Kansas City Music Hall, 301 W 13th Street, Kansas City, MO.
Thursday, March 23, 2023: 7:30 p.m.
Friday, March 24, 2023: 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, March 25, 2023: 2 p.m.
Saturday, March 25, 2023: 8 p.m.
Sunday, March 26, 2023: 1 p.m.
Sunday, March 26, 2023: 7 p.m.
Tuesday, March 28, 2023: 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, March 29, 2023: 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, March 30, 2023: 7:30 p.m.
Friday, March 31, 2023: 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, April 1, 2023: 2 p.m.
Saturday, April 1, 2023: 8 p.m.
Sunday, April 2, 2023: 1 p.m.
Sunday, April 2, 2023: 7 p.m.
–Anita Widaman | Metro Voice
