Hamilton Musical Took the West End by Storm

Hamilton have just celebrated their 10 year anniversary and it has officially been in the West End for almost 8 years. Although many love to joke about how the idea of Hamilton playing in London is ironic and funny. The show remains one of the most successful and hottest tickets in the West End. The Hamilton musical is one of the few that has never needed stunt casting and has still filled the Victoria Palace Theatre night after night.

History

Although stunt casting was never needed this doesn’t mean the show hasn’t produced famous people. The original Broadway cast of Hamilton is particulary acclaimed with Lin himself playing the titular role of Hamilton. Leslie Odom Jr. who is actually returning to the role for a limited run starred as Aaron Burr. And many other members went on to become stars in the theatre and acting world. Such as Jonathon Groff, Ariana Debose and Anthony Ramos. The original cast also reunited for a speical performace at this years Tony’s to celebrate Hamilton turning 10.

Hamilton was written by Lin Manuel Miranda back in 2015 and it quickly went on to become a global phenomenon. The show blends a unique mix of rap and singing with Lin’s signature word-play and quick wit. The story is one we should theoretically all be familiar with. As we learn of the life of Alexander Hamilton one of the USA founding fathers. Hamilton is characterized as the underdog “rag-tag” immigrant who through his wit and knowledge went on to help lay the foundation of the USA as we know it today. The story also highlights his wife Eliza Schuyler Hamilton. And her and her sister Angelica’s roles in Hamilton’s life and his legacy. The show has grown a very dedicated fan base. But beyond that has cemented itself as one of the most popular, awarded and well-known musicals of the modern era.

Why is Hamilton so Popular?

The show won the Pulitzer prize for best drama and racked up a record-breaking 16 Tony nominations. Of which it won 11. The score was critically acclaimed and was called a “eye-popping debut” by Billboard. Who also gave it a perfect 5-out-of-5 review. The show is unique in it’s concept and execution standing out from the traditional musicals we were seeing. Although it could seem like a difficult show to get into with the complicated history of America’s independence. And the founding fathers. Hamilton manages to give a condensed engaging history lesson by following his journey. And his interactions with other important figures like George Washington, Aaron Burr etc.. By telling the journey to independence in a modern, hip and fascinating way the show manages to connect with young audiences. As well as non-American audiences who might not have known the history prior.

The show has also been praised for it’s blind casting. Despite the real life figures being predominately white Hamilton has historically cast people of colour in almost all roles. This highlights minority communities and immigrants in America and in the acting space where people of color are notoriously underrepresented. This is also an empowering concept as it allows minorities to reclaim and be recognized for their part in the beginning of America.

The enduring success

Beyond this Hamilton’s success does boil down to one very simple thing. It’s just very entertaining. The songs are catchy and meaningful with clever lyrics that are impossible to process in one viewing. So you’re incentivized to listen to the soundtrack. The actors are amazing and deliver powerhouse vocals and show-stopping performances. The choreography is interesting and fully utilities the ensemble. And it’s an exciting story that encompasses all the themes that make great stories. Friendship, love, rebellion, war, rivalries and death. There’s comedic moments and dramatic moments and nothing overshadows the other. With the central rivalry of Hamilton and Burr who are both fleshed out and complex characters. Alongside Eliza and Angelic Schuyler who are given new voices to reclaim their part of history. It’s no wonder this show has hit levels of popularity rarely seen in the musical world.

How to get tickets!

Tickets for Hamilton musical are hard to come by. The best way to ensure fair prices and good availability is to book in advance. It plays every week from Monday – Saturday and the week day performances will normally be cheaper. The theatre has a decent rake and even seats on the top floor(upper circle) doesn’t feel too far away from the action. Booking online with theatrebookings will ensure you get the seats you want at a reasonable price.