Well, I enjoyed a musical. That alone should be the review. I never really cared for them, mostly because conversation as music usually annoys me. (Sings) I am going to the church, to the church, to the church, to see the Deacon, lalalala. See what I mean? That said, I was pretty impressed at the historical accuracy and lyrical content they weaved into their music. I DIDN’T EVEN GET UP TO GET MORE BEER DURING THE PLAY.
So, let’s review the plot – Hamilton the Musical follows…um, Hamilton the guy. Alexander Hamilton was a very important figure in American History, from his role in the final assault on Yorktown to writing the Federalist Papers (which were key in passing the US Constitution) to his role as Secretary of the Treasury under Washington. The play uses hip hop and modern style music, plus mostly non-white actors in the roles. This is key because I’m not paying to see whitey rap. Good call, Hamilton the Musical, good call.
It was very focused also, despite the length and depth of material, I was surprised at how easy it was to follow. That said, a rapping Marquis de Lafayette was nigh on impossible to comprehend. French accent and hip hop? Not so much. Side note: work on heavy metal Washington musical. The other part that really grabbed my attention was the background dancers. They danced, moved props and supported the main characters really well. If I notice non-speaking characters, you know they were on point.
I think I’m more impressed by the fact that a play was able to revive interest in our founding. I was very annoyed when talk began in the government to replace Hamilton on the $10 bill and wondered aloud why Andrew Jackson wasn’t the choice, given his defiance of the law and human rights abuses and/or stances. In 2014, it was announced that exactly that was the new direction for our money. I think this play had a lot to do with that.
It’s also helping people to understand what happened in our republic and who was involved. There is a very modern illness in society where people think anything old is bad and we have all the answers right now. Not learning from or appreciating history is a very dangerous thing and if this play sparks a fire for learning and understanding the roots of a liberty based form of government specifically designed to curb power in people and branches, then I like it even more. Except for the guy wearing an M&M baseball cap to the play. What in the hell is wrong with you? That guy probably rooted for Aaron Burr. “I’m an adult and I wear candy hats to fancy stuff!” Are duels legal in Ohio? I hope so.