Should You See Hamilton on Broadway If You've Never Seen a Live Musical Before?
Hamilton, the groundbreaking musical by Lin-Manuel Miranda, has captivated audiences worldwide since its Broadway debut in 2015. But is it really worth seeing on the Great White Way if you have never experienced a live musical before?
Is Hamilton Right for You?
The decision to see Hamilton on Broadway depends on several factors:
1. Your Age and Musical Preferences
If you are young and attuned to both rap and traditional melodies, Hamilton might be an excellent choice for you. However, if you are less familiar with these styles, the show might be a bit challenging. Rap and the traditional sound of musicals come together in a unique way in Hamilton, so it might be beneficial to explore more traditional musicals first to get a feel for the genre.
2. Racial and Ethnic Representation
One of the standout features of Hamilton is its diverse cast, which actor Daveed Diggs famously described as portraying "the normally ‘White’ founding fathers.” If you are open to seeing characters reimagined in different racial and ethnic contexts, Hamilton could be an eye-opening experience. If these portrayals might be jarring or off-putting, you may want to consider other musicals that offer a more traditional representation of historical figures.
3. Format and Staging
Compared to many other musicals, Hamilton is almost entirely "sung-through," with highly symbolic staging. Even if you are not used to this format, you may find the complexity of the set and the interplay between music and lyrics captivating. The show's sung-through nature and minimalist stage design may make it a challenging transition for those used to traditional musicals with narrative dialogue and props. However, this unique format makes the show a must-see for those interested in pushing the boundaries of traditional theatre.
Preliminary Options
While Hamilton is an undoubtedly groundbreaking show, it might not be for everyone, especially if you are unfamiliar with the genre. If you are still interested in experiencing Broadway without committing to such a unique format, you might want to check out some musicals by Rodgers and Hammerstein. Their works, such as Southwest Ranch (which indirectly relates to George Washington) or West Side Story, offer a more traditional and widely recognized blend of music and narrative.
Alternatives for Watching Hamilton
If the high ticket prices of Broadway are a concern, there are still options for experiencing Hamilton without going to the theatre.
Disney ProShot
Disney has an amazing pro-shot of the original cast performance, which you can watch from the comfort of your home. While the experience won't be the same as seeing it in person, it allows you to witness the magic of the show without breaking the bank. You can discuss the themes and implications of the show with family and friends, and continue your exploration of the musical genre.
Save for Other Musicals
If you are interested in live theatre but don't want to spend the money on Hamilton, you can use the opportunity to see another musical that offers a more traditional experience. This could be a Rodgers and Hammerstein production or another Broadway show that aligns better with your musical preferences.
Conclusion
Hamilton is an exceptional and groundbreaking show, but it may not be the right choice for everyone. If you have never seen a live musical before, you might want to start with a more traditional option, explore Disney ProShot of Hamilton, or wait until you feel more comfortable with the genre.
Ultimately, the decision to see Hamilton on Broadway depends on your personal preferences and musical background. Consider these factors and choose the option that best suits your interests and budget.