HAMILTON Review: Widely Acclaimed Musical Lives Up Its Hype
HAMILTON is often said to be revolutionary in the musical theatre world. It debuted with a bang in 2015 and sustained its popularity through the years, gaining widespread fame among musical nerds and even those with no interest in the genre. Lucky for us, the HAMILTON International Tour has made a stop in Singapore at Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands, extending its season to 9 June 2024 due to popular demand.
Here's a report on the HAMILTON Gala Night performance and if all the hype around this musical is deserved.
In summary, HAMILTON is based on real American history and tells the story of Alexander Hamilton, the country's founding father, based on Ron Chernow's biography. The music and lyrics are by Lin-Manuel Miranda, who is also behind soundtracks for Disney's Moana and Encanto.
Photo from HAMILTON International Tour
It's well-known that this musical features a unique blend of showtunes, hip-hop, jazz and R&B. To take fusion food as an example, mixing genres is a tricky task that can either result an ingenious hit or a complete mess. Unsurprisingly, HAMILTON is the former.
At the very core, the music is distinctly Broadway, but with an elegant contemporary touch. Seamlessly interjected between classic and theatric melodies are smooth rapping, Beyonce-style vocal riffs, and groovy, jazz-style harmonies. Millennials will be hit with a dose of nostalgia during the rap parts as the flows and rhythms are reminiscent of early 2000s rap music by artists like Jay-Z, Snoop Dogg and Eminem.
Photo from HAMILTON International Tour
The real star of the show is the clever lyrics. Lin-Manuel Miranda's sharp, witty wordplay and catchy verses are a marvel, and even more so when experienced live. The cast, especially the titular character played by Jason Arrow, delivered the rapid-fire raps with such finesse, effortlessly enunciating every word crisp and clear.
Certain singing parts had me pricking my ears up to the max because of the stylistic vocals, but in general, the lyrics and storyline are easy to grasp. That said, like with an opera, the audience will get the most out of the HAMILTON musical with some prior knowledge. If reading up on Alexander Hamilton and American history sounds dull, give the musical a watch on Disney+ to get acquainted with the lyrics and story. Those who'd rather not be spoiled completely can listen to the musical numbers on Spotify.
It was also a pleasant surprise that there are plenty of fun and humorous bits lightening the mood between heavier scenes. Some highlights include the demure and ladylike Eliza, played by Rachelle Ann Go, unexpectedly dropping a beat for her son's rap verse, and King George, played by Brent Hill, sweetly threatening to unalive his opposers' friends and family. The characters' mocking Hamilton's downfall with infectious chants of 'never gon' be president now' was also a delight to watch.
Photo from HAMILTON International Tour
The set design made a great first impression. Resembling a high-budget film location, the stage was intricately detailed, filled with realistic worn-out props and period furniture that brought the 19th century world to life.
I was a little disappointed that the setting remained exactly the same throughout the entire musical, but that's easily forgiven when thinking back about the lazy Susan. In the middle of the stage floor is a circle that rotates - an 'invisible' prop that created many cinematic-looking scenes. Actors would stand still on the circle while monologuing and singing their hearts out, with the spinning enhancing the dramatic atmosphere. Other times, they would use the circle like a treadmill to walk while staying in 'frame'.
Photo from HAMILTON International Tour
My only real critique is how male-centric the story is. There are only three female characters, the Schuyler Sisters. One has barely any lines and only appears in the first half of the musical. The other two are given the spotlight to shine but are a tad one-dimensional, and their presence is overshadowed by the male characters.
Tiny quibbles aside, HAMILTON is an all-round outstanding musical that lives up to all the hype. This international tour has brought top-notch talents who deftly swing from one genre to the next and excel in all areas from singing and dancing to acting. The ensemble cast was also fantastic, livening the stage with energetic dance numbers choreographed by Andy Blankenbuehler that blend different styles like hip hop.
Tickets are priced from $80 to $280 each and $720 to $100 for Box Seats for 4. The best seats currently available are on Tuesday and Wednesday evening as well as Sunday matinees performances from mid-May to June.
Book your tickets at marinabaysands.com or sistic.com.
