Introduction
The Broadway musical “Hamilton” had an overwhelming success and 11 Tony Awards for a good reason. Lil-Manuel Miranda, who starred as Alexander and wrote the music and scenario, confessed that, after being inspired by the dual scene in Ron Chernow’s “Hamilton“ biography, he thought it could have looked like the rap battle (“”Hamilton”: A Revolutionary Musical,“ para. 6). Eventually, this idea got broader, ending in a story free of racial and social class prejudices.
The musical introduces the genuine modern American spirit by staying close to the historical facts and standing for democracy, revolution, freedom, and brotherhood. No less importantly, the story of Alexander Hamilton’s life, which is the basis of the musical, is so dramatic that it cannot be staged. This paper seeks to explore the contemporary relevance of the Broadway musical “Hamilton.”
The Contemporary Significance of the Broadway Musical Hamilton
Nowadays, the musical has become a modern symbol of liberated America. It premiered on Broadway in August 2015 at the Richard Rogers Theater, and the musical team continues to tour, with the latest performance in Honolulu, Hawaii (Piepenburg, para. 5). The musical can hardly be considered mass pop culture, as it is not plain and simple like Disney movies. Its appeal stays closer to the underground, contemporary, and pop art cultures, and being staged on Broadway delivers that unique Shakesperean theatrical fleur.
Elements That Gave Hamilton Its Pop Culture Appeal
Mr. Miranda, the author of the musical, used a mix of hip-hop, jazz, R&B, and Broadway to present the story of the founding father, Alexander Hamilton. The masterful ballet ensemble and groovy R&B bits, combined with the energizing hip-hop rhythms and juxtaposed with the mix of jazzy Broadway songs, constitute the appeal that deserved such wide recognition that it could be called ‘pop‘ (“Hamilton Act 1”). No less importantly, the genre of music combined with the popular historical topic still attracts congregations of visitors to the shows.
Positioning Hamilton on the Skyscraper Model of Culture
If one applied the skyscraper model to give a mark to the show, it would be placed in the elevator. This elevator would be going up and down between the basement floor chanting R&B battles on the issues of liberty and civil rights and the penthouse floor where the matters of historical-political truths are discussed through the tools of the ballet and theatrical play in the decorations of expensive furniture and classical paintings. In this elevator, the masterful sound and light producers enhance the show and make it pop, together with the ensemble and the starring cast.
Personal Reflection on the Appeal of Hamilton Compared to Other Musicals
I watched the “Cats“ musical once, in a movie version. That musical was less appealing, as it did not have a particular topic, only telling a rather childish story about the main heroine who wanted to be cared for. Of course, the costumes were overwhelming, as were the scenery and the lyrics, but something was missing.
Now I understand that I felt the lack of a genuine story behind the special effects. Hence, given my love for historical decorations, the “Hamilton” musical was more appealing to me, although the genres of the two compared shows are different – the movie and the filmed on-stage musical. Watching “Hamilton” was a bright experience, and I would be happy to see it live someday.
Conclusion
The relevance of the Broadway musical “Hamilton” in the modern era was therefore examined. Creator Lil-Manuel Miranda managed to organically combine the high genres of classical ballet and theater and the low genres of hip-hop, jazz, and R&B rhythms to create a show that highlights political and historical issues. Therefore, the musical received public recognition comparable to the art of pop culture. The show won the viewers through its drive, skillful ballet ensemble and singers, witty lyrics, and socio-political relevance.
Works Cited
“Hamilton Act 1.” YouTube, uploaded by Unhappy Erik, Web.
““Hamilton”: A Revolutionary Musical.” CBS News, Web.
Piepenburg, Erik. “Why Hamilton Has Heat.” New York Times (2018).