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Hamilton

David Robinson


Birmingham Hippodrome until August 31st

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “a hot shot for the Summer.”


Don’t throw away your shot at seeing this outstanding and thrilling touring production of Hamilton.

I remember hearing in 2015 about this off west end phenomenon called “Hamilton” and couldn’t help but think the combination of hip-hop and history was a brave, but risky statement. Nearly 10 years on I had not anticipated it would turn into the breath-taking, culture shaping musical it is today.


Having missed opportunities to see it live, I was delighted to have the opportunity to watch a filmed performance of the show made available on Disney+ during the Covid lockdown in 2020. Along with many others across the world, we enjoyed the chance to watch this multi-award-winning musical on TV. 


But either listening to the CD on repeat in the car or watching it on TV is nothing compared to the experience of seeing it live on stage. The richness of the performance, the incredible choreography and dynamic staging is only fully appreciated from inside “the room where it happens.”


From the very first song the audience is transported from The Birmingham Hippodrome to 1776 New York. There’s no need to swot up on your history – it tells you everything you need to know. It is important to make sure you have a keen ear as the pace of songs are quick and some key details can be missed. 


For those who have seen this show before, it’s tempting to wish the leads to replicate the Broadway version or other versions gone before, but this cast bring a fresh energy to the musical which is both engaging and haunting at moments. Shaq Taylor in the lead role Alexander Hamilton emanates a bold and almost arrogant power, a sharp contrast against his smooth-tongued, will-be murderer Aaron Burr (Sam Oladeinde). Daniel Boys is a perfect light release and commands the stage as King George whilst Billy Nevers is superb in the self-centred role of Thomas Jefferson. The Schuyler sisters are flawless in their performance and deliver breath-taking solo numbers that left the audience flawed, most memorably Aisha Jawando’s powerful rendition of “Satisfied” and Maya Britto’s emotional execution of “Burn.”


Whilst the lead roles captivate the audience with their powerful voices and storytelling Blankenbuehler’s outstanding choreography of the ensemble undeniably assists in bringing the narrative to life. Each member of the ensemble performs with incredible focus, strength and control through their seamless transitions and impeccable timing.

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