Musical/movie Review - Hamilton

Musical/movie Review -  Hamilton        

Music/lyrics/book Lin-Manuel Miranda

2015              

I was attracted to this book because… Truly, because of the years of hype and the fascination of how it has become such a part of current culture. I was somewhat familiar with the history behind this story. When it became available on Disney Plus month, I immediately signed up for Disney and got to see it on the first day. 

This musical was about Inspired by Ron Chernow’s 2004 biography, Alexander Hamilton, is a sung-rapped-through musical, with music, lyrics, and book by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Miranda says it’s about “America then, as told by America now.” It uses several combinations of music, from hip-hop, R&B, soul and traditional-style show songs. And many of the roles of the Founding Fathers and other characters are performed by non-white actors. It brings an often untold stories of the early days of our nation in ways you can’t soon forget. From the first notes, you are swept off your feet and your heart is beating fast through the last phrase. Part of the mastery of the musical is how Miranda’s music inspires creativity. And the creativity flowed through all areas of the musical, the casting, the directing, the musical arrangements, the costumes, the lighting, the incredible stage crafting, the choreography and then expressed itself through the interpretations and movement of the actors. With this much creativity in the air and such an inspiring message, the audience can help but leave thinking, “I can do that, I should take my shot.” 

Things I liked about this book The number one thing would be how this musical makes me feel. Familiar stories of the founding of our Republic seen through the lives of these brilliant, but flawed people. And it echoes with tasks of the things which they left undone and still haunt us today. 

I’m blown away by the concept that Lin-Manuel Miranda took Ron Chernow’s book with him on a vacation. It becomes even more striking when you hold the book. It would require it’s own luggage cart. Once again, creativity promotes creativity. Alexander Hamilton’s words to Ron Chernow’s words to Miranda’s words. 

Why you should read this book It is always good to have your mind implode. But, certainly, in the time we live in, we need to see beyond our traditions and beliefs. We all need to think about who’s going to write our story. And we should all consider which side we want to take. Do you want to not let anyone know what you’re against or what you’re for? Or do you want to be someone who says “I’m not throwing away my shot.”  And then remember to live out those words. 

Hamilton