Birmingham Hippodrome review: ‘Hamliton was a play unlike any other’

Behind the show is the world’s most prolific musical theater producer, Sir Cameron MacIntosh, a man who has delighted audiences with his productions for almost sixty years.

“Hamilton” must surely be among his top three achievements.

Written by the incomparable Lin Manuel Miranda, “Hamilton” is a cultural phenomenon and described perfectly by the author when he said, “This is a story about America then, told by America now.”

Having taken the world by storm since its 2015 debut when it began life off-Broadway starring the composer, “Hamilton” has a unique and innovative style that has ensured the musical has achieved cult status, audiences going back in time and again to wallow in its majesty.

And like all the best musicals, it’s based on a true story. This is the story of America’s founding father, Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies island of Nevis who fought for his people in the Revolutionary War and had the ear of President George Washington and thereby helped shape the mighty country that we have it i know today

“Hamilton” follows his story from extremely humble beginnings to his marriage to a wealthy lady, Elizabeth Schuyler, to his career as a lawyer to his involvement with Aaron Burr, an American politician, and their stormy relationship.

Until the premiere of the musical, the story of this high-profile historical figure had unfortunately been completely forgotten, but, thank God, it is now in the foreground, such is its appeal.

This is a play unlike any other. Entirely sung, Lin Manuel Miranda’s incredible score and script is a blend of rap, hip-hop and traditional musical theater and can only be described as pure poetry, with the complexity of the story clearly defined by every word.

The cast of the show is awesome to say the least. Shaq Taylor in the title role is an absolute triumph, with stage presence and charisma in abundance, a vocal performance that brings the house down and dramatic acting skills to rival any leading man in musical theater today.

His rendition of “My Shot” could have elicited a standing ovation just minutes into the first act, it was so powerful. Every moment of his performance was dynamic and passionate as he dominated the stage.

Sam Oladeinde as Aaron Burr was equally outstanding, portraying the American politician with grace and ease, yet bringing his strength and power to the fore. His rendition of “The Room Where It Happens” will stay with me forever, as will the duet between Hamilton and Burr, “Dear Theodosia.”

There was an incredibly moving performance by Maya Britto as Eliza (Elizabeth) Hamilton that brought me to tears during Act Two, and her vocal performance throughout the show was a revelation.

Aisha Jawando was gloriously regal and self-sacrificing as Angelica Schuyler, while West End stalwart Daniel Boys brought humor to the play as King George. That man sure knows how to hold an audience in the palm of his hand!

The experience and expertise of seasoned performer Charles Simmons ensured that he delivered an impressive portrayal of George Washington and the outstanding multi-talented ensemble, who also play small roles, complete the dream cast for any producer and director.

Thomas Kail and Andy Blankenbuihler’s direction and choreography are sharp and clear as oil, and the pace at which the show moves, both vocally and physically, is breathtaking. Skillfully assisted by associate and resident UK directors and choreographers, together this team has created a piece of theater that has never been seen before.

Visually it is also a triumph. The wooden scenery and revolving stage are effective but never detract from the performances and yet are perfectly placed to make you think you are moving from one scene to another. The cast perfectly moves the minimal props and the costumes are completely authentic to the period, but with a modern twist that ensures the play is the perfect blend of period and modern.

The lighting design of the late Howard Binkley is his wonderful legacy, transporting the cast to the stage and the audience at every moment, while the orchestrations of Alex Lacamoire and Richard Beadle and, indeed, the musical direction of Zach Flis and the “Hamilton” orchestra it blows everywhere. the magnificent Birmingham Hippodrome auditorium, to create an incredibly uplifting, spine-tingling and breath-taking atmosphere.

It’s hard to put into words how meaningful this musical is. It changed the world of theater as we know it from a performance standpoint. It chronicled the story of one of the most influential but little talked about historical figures of the 18th century and educates and entertains in equal measure.

Lin Manuel Miranda is without a doubt the modern day Shakespeare and I can’t wait to see what he composes next.

For tickets visit birminghamhippodrome.com or call 0844 338 5000. Runs until August 31.