Hamilton 2.0
5 out of 5 Stars
“Who lives, who dies, who tells your story?” . . . the closing line of the extraordinary event that is Hamilton is the opening of our second review of the show. Since its inception, the story has been told by the man who is slowly edging towards deity status – Lin-Manuel Miranda. Our initial viewing of the show with the actual founding father in the lead role was an unforgettable experience. On a second viewing, what is now even clearer is what a work of genius Hamilton is. We very quickly realized that the role of Alexander Hamilton is a role in a show that can be played, (in many ways to great benefit) by a mere mortal actor – in the case by the extremely talented Javier Muño
We could not be more pleased to report that our “post-apocalyptic” (exodus of several original cast members) viewing of the show was nothing short of transcendental. Yankees fans may have to wait for another generation to replace Derek Jeter. But what is completely clear in our theater experience is that Broadway’s got talent. The roles have been filled by actors who brought great skill as well as their own nuance to the characters. What is also clear after a second viewing, and this is part of the genius of this work, is that there is a great complexity and delicate balance to the story. Ron Chernow (the inspiring book’s author) saw the show 23 times during its run at the Public Theater (lucky him). It is said that you can never step into the same river twice; is it possible that he never saw the same show twice.
This all speaks extremely well for the story’s longevity (never really in doubt) as well as for the current show’s ability to transfer to London and Chicago as is currently planned. In our opinion, when you see Hamilton you are assured of an amazing theatrical experience. No hype – the music, story, and production really are that good!
Now moving on. Mention must me made of the departure of Daveed Diggs from his roles as Lafayette and Jefferson. Although replaced with extreme talent and style by Seth Stewart, the Diggs portrayal of these characters was a show in itself. From his last extremely obscure role in food delivery (that’s delivery of food, not the name of a show) to Tony award winning founding father, Diggs has been catapulted to superstardom. He will be with us for a long time to come, just not in this show.
The departure of Leslie Odom Jr. - in his Tony awarding winning role as Aaron Burr - made way for the appearance of Austin Smith. In my opinion, Mr. Smith has transformed the role and in many ways made this his story. The departure of Mr. Miranda and arrival of Mr. Muñoz has reset the balance in the rivalry between the two and thus made the story even more compelling. My cousin Sandy wrote of Mr. Smith following his recent viewing of the show: He was so sympathetic, that we thought he stole the show (not counting Daveed Diggs). In fact, to us he made the show seem more about him than Hamilton. -- I agree with this sentiment
In the nine months since our last viewing Renée Elise Goldsberry (Tony award winner) and Christopher Jackson (Tony Award nominee) as Angelica Schuyler and George Washington respectively have honed their skills and enhanced their roles further adding to the balance and brilliance of the show. It is all breath-taking to see. With the show’s monumental success, it would seem Alexander Hamilton’s place on the $10 bill is for the time being secure. With his current portrayal of our country’s father, perhaps there’s a spot for Christopher Jackson on the one-dollar bill. When you see him I think you will agree.
Christopher Jackson as George Washington
Our conclusion is that fear or concern about not catching the original cast members is, in our opinion, unfounded. It is clearer than ever that this is the show that sets the tone for the twenty-first-century musical. It is more the story than who tells it that makes Hamilton the extraordinary experience it is. Do not hesitate to get this show on your calendar. We plan to again (and again).
Why we went: We wanted to revisit the show after we were familiar with the music, and based on this viewing, would strongly suggest getting the soundtrack and taking several run-throughs before your show. Your experience will be enhanced.
The good news is ticket prices are beginning to come out of the stratosphere. See Ridiculous Prices Fall to Just Excessive in the New York Times. The lowest prices I've seen are on TicketMaster, several hours just before a show.
To read our original Hamilton review, click here: Hamilton review
JMG