- HAMILTON
- Music Hall
- Kansas City, Missouri
With an ensemble cast that is second to none in terms of talent, the hit Broadway musical “Hamilton” has taken the Music Hall by storm. Impressive set and lighting designs, terrific costumes, and well-executed choreography on the stage makes this popular production a definite crowd pleaser.
Based upon the 2004 biography “Alexander Hamilton” by American biographer Ronald Chernow, who won a Pulitzer Prize for his 2010 work “Washington: A Life,” “Hamilton” the musical premiered off-Broadway on January 20, 2015, at The Public Theater in New York City. Adapted for the stage by Tony Award winner Lin-Manuel Miranda, who originally starred as the title character, “Hamilton” exploded from its humble beginning and went on to received 16 nominations at the 70th Annual Tony Awards in 2016 and won 11 categories including Best Musical.
Following the life of one of our nation’s founding fathers from the Revolutionary War until his untimely death in 1804, “Hamilton” explores the complexities of Alexander’s life, most notably his increasingly strained relationship with his eventual killer, Vice-President Aaron Burr. In two lengthy acts, his story is told through fast-paced song and rap lyrics. The latter of which can be difficult to understand at times, especially for those that are new to the show, and consequently makes the story a little challenging to follow.
The performance quality was a team effort as no one cast member necessarily outshined the rest. However, some of the biggest crowd responses occurred when King George III (Peter Matthew Smith) came onto the stage during the first act with the songs “You’ll Be Back” and “What Comes Next.” Also of note was the powerhouse vocals by Alysha Deslorieux as Eliza Hamilton, wife of Alexander. Her vocal range and control were nothing short of extraordinary.
Overall, the musical stays mostly true to the biography that inspired it with only a few inaccuracies or liberties taken – as when Burr is among those who confront Hamilton about money he used to hush up an affair. Burr was not present during the confrontation nor were Thomas Jefferson and James Madison as the production portrays. Be that as it may, “Hamilton” is worthwhile theatrical experience that you must have.
“Hamilton” will run through April 2 at the Music Hall in Kansas City and is currently touring through June 2024. For ticket information, please click HERE.
