Why Didn't Lin-Manuel Miranda Use a Child for the 9-Year-Old Phillip in Hamilton?

In the musical Hamilton, Lin-Manuel Miranda made the decision not to cast a child for the character of 9-year-old Philip Hamilton. This choice was based on a combination of practical and artistic considerations.

Performance Complexity

One of the primary reasons Miranda opted for an adult actor is the complexity of the character's performance. The role of Philip Hamilton is emotionally rich and full of nuance, particularly during the intense Stage Performance of Take a Break. An adult actor can bring a level of maturity and stage presence that might be challenging for a child, especially in a production as demanding and emotionally charged as Hamilton.

Stage Presence and Flexibility

Using an adult performer allows for greater flexibility in rehearsals and performances. Adult actors can typically handle the varying demands of theater more easily. They have fewer restrictions on working hours and can better manage the physical and emotional requirements of the role. This flexibility is crucial for a show that has to meet rigorous standards and maintain high quality performances.

Artistic Interpretation

Miranda's approach to Hamilton often involves reimagining historical figures through a contemporary lens. By casting an adult as a child, the production can highlight the themes of youth loss and the impact of legacy in a more poignant way. This artistic interpretation aligns with the show's broader narrative and enhances the thematic depth of the performance.

The Practicalities of Casting a Child Actor

Persisting child labor laws and their restrictions can be a significant challenge for theater productions. These laws are designed to protect the rights and well-being of child actors but can also add significant costs and complications.

Child Labor Laws

There are several key aspects of child labor laws that affect theater productions:

Work Hours: Child actors can be on set for a maximum of 8 hours a day, but they must spend 5 of those hours working and 3 hours engaged in activities such as eating, schoolwork, or rest. School Attendance: If a child actor is attending regular school, they can only work for 3 hours. Payment and Taxes: There are specific requirements for how child actors are paid and how taxes are handled. This is covered by laws like Coogan's Law, which ensures that a portion of earnings is saved for the child's future.

Each of these factors can add significant costs to a production. Additionally, children require an escort backstage and may need a tutor, both of which are expensive. These expenses can quickly accumulate, especially for a new production with limited financial resources.

The Practical Benefits of Adult Casting

For the specific role of Philip Hamilton in Hamilton, the practical considerations make adult casting the more economical choice. Philip is only 9 for a 4 and a half minute duration of Take a Break. After that, he becomes a young adult. Paying a child actor for just 4 minutes of work would be incredibly costly.

An adult actor such as Anthony Ramos, who played the role, could look a little ridiculous in the performance but would save the production a significant amount of money. This economic benefit is a crucial consideration for the financial health of the production, allowing more resources to be allocated to other areas of the show.

In conclusion, the decision to cast an adult actor for the role of Philip Hamilton in Hamilton was a thoughtful choice that balanced artistic vision with the practical realities of the production. Lin-Manuel Miranda's approach highlights the intricate process of bringing a musical to life while maintaining a high standard of both quality and financial viability.