The iconic musical Hamilton has returned to the Sydney Lyric Theatre with a fresh 2024 cast, bringing new energy and perspectives to Lin-Manuel Miranda’s revolutionary retelling of American history. Captivating audiences worldwide with its innovative blend of hip-hop, R&B, and traditional musical theatre, the production opened to audiences in late July.
The 2024 cast of Hamilton (Australia) is a diverse and talented group of performers, each bringing their own unique flair to the stage. Jason Arrow carries an air of familiarity and confidence in the lead role of Alexander Hamilton. This is unsurprising, as Arrow has played Hamilton not only in the first-ever production of the show when it came to Australia back in 2020 but also for their international tour. His seasoned performance was expectedly solid, yet it was not Arrow who stole the spotlight this year.
One of the most significant aspects of Hamilton is its ability to make history relevant to contemporary audiences. The musical doesn’t just tell the story of Alexander Hamilton – a Founding Father of the United States who was instrumental in establishing the nation’s financial system as the first secretary of treasury – but it also comments on immigrant experience, ambition, and the quest for identity. In today’s world, these themes resonate deeply, especially within migrant communities like Indian-Australians, who often grapple with their identities and roles in a multicultural society. Hamilton serves as a reminder that the stories of immigrants, both past and present, are integral to the fabric of a nation.
The standout of the night was Vidya Makan, who plays Eliza Hamilton. Some might accuse this opinion of bias, but judging by the buzz in the theatre, Makan was the talk of the night. While Akina Edmonds as Angelica and Elandrah Eramiha as Peggy brought their powerful vocal prowess to the stage, Makan complemented the returning cast perfectly. Her voice, though perhaps more suited to softer songs like “That Would Be Enough” and “Helpless,” held its own in the powerful solo “Burn,” showcasing her range and emotive delivery.
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Another standout performance came from Callan Purcell, who portrayed Aaron Burr with captivating nuance. His portrayal of Burr as a cunning antagonist struggling with ambition and envy added complexity to the character. For first-time viewers (such as myself), the rapid pace of the show can sometimes make the dialogue difficult to follow, but Purcell’s clear enunciation and distinctive delivery made every word pop.
The director’s vision for this year’s production is clear: to bridge the gap between past and present. The cast delivers lines with a modern sensibility, bringing historical figures like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and King George III into the 21st century. Personal highlights of the play were the witty “roast battles” between Jefferson and Hamilton, creatively representing their political conflicts.
Despite the stellar performances and the evident passion of the cast, there were a few moments during the show that seemed slightly out of sync or not part of the script. Whether it was a technical hiccup or a minor misstep, these instances were brief and did not detract from the overall experience. While Hamilton is a brilliant and engaging production, it may not be the kind of show one feels compelled to watch repeatedly, unless an ardent fan. Nevertheless, the energy, creativity, and talent on display make it a worthwhile and enjoyable experience.
As the final notes of “Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story” echoed through the theatre, Vidya Makan and her castmates concluded the story with heartfelt resonance. The standing ovation at the end was a testament to the show’s impact, even for those who may not consider it a repeat viewing experience.
While Hamilton is undoubtedly an entertaining and impactful production, a basic understanding of American history can enhance the viewing experience. Knowing the historical context of the American Revolution, the founding of the United States, and the key figures involved will add depth to the narrative.
For Indian-Australians, Hamilton can be particularly meaningful as it parallels the immigrant journey – a narrative that many within the community can relate to. Alexander Hamilton’s story as an immigrant who rose to prominence through determination and intellect mirrors the experiences of many Indian-Australians who have worked to establish themselves in a new country. The musical also highlights the complexities of belonging and the continuous effort to define one’s identity in a society where one might feel like an outsider. This connection makes Hamilton not just a story of American history, but a reflection of the broader immigrant experience, making it relevant to audiences far beyond the United States.
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