Hamilton

Theatre Review: ‘Hamilton’ at RBTL’s Auditorium Theatre

/ Buffalo Theatre Guide

When John Szablewski previously reviewed “Hamilton” at Shea’s Buffalo Theatre for the Buffalo Theatre Guide, he purposely went into it with limited prior knowledge of the show and without having listened to the soundtrack. Contrary to Szablewski’s fresh take, I would consider myself a “Hamilton” fanatic. In fact I was among those considering selling a kidney to pay for tickets in Buffalo, and ended up successfully purchasing my own VIP seat in the very last row of the balcony. Coming from an experience where I had to use binoculars to live my musical theatre dream, I was ecstatic to have the chance to review “Hamilton” at the RBTL’s Auditorium Theatre in Rochester, NY. I wanted to see for myself if seating really does make a difference for this theatrical phenomenon.

. . .a must see whether you’re sitting last row of the balcony or front and center orchestra. . .

In case you haven’t heard of this show before, which would be quite impressive, “Hamilton” tells the story of Alexander Hamilton from age 19 through to the end of his life. It also includes other historical figures such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Aaron Burr, and King George. What’s truly impressive about this show is how it is able to tell the tale of the American Revolution and all that followed through an unchanging set and minimalistic costumes. “Hamilton” depends on the actors to thoroughly paint the picture through powerful music, intricate choreography, and raw emotional connections to the characters.

The audience’s support is immediately felt upon Alexander Hamilton’s (Edred Utomi) first entrance in the opening number when everyone bursts into applause. You immediately root for that main characters and feel moved by them and their stories. Utomi portrays Hamilton with the perfect balance of confidence, bluntness, and humility. The color-blind casting is so incredibly refreshing and allows for a diversely talented cast. Josh Tower as Aaron Burr keeps the show moving through his narrative as one musical number seamlessly transitions into the next. The ensemble is one of the most impressive parts of the show. Their constant presence on stage is accompanied by strictly timed choreography to music that is bursting with different beats, meters, and styles. I continued to watch the ensemble in amazement and wondered how they continued to throw themselves into the show so tremendously without becoming exhausted before the end.

Another key element of this show and its plot is the character of Eliza Hamilton (Hannah Cruz). Although Aaron Burr and Hamilton seem to be the primary focus, the show is arguably as much about her and her story as it is them. We follow Eliza as she falls for Hamilton, becomes his wife, and then must stay strong and supportive as he fights for his beliefs in a way that isn’t always entirely graceful. Hannah Cruz’s emotional dedication to the character and what she is going through is amazing. She makes you feel every word right along with her and has a powerful voice and presence.

Bryson Bruce is extremely likeable and hilarious in both of his roles of Marquis de Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson. Peter Matthew Smith proves to be an audience favorite as King George, providing the perfect amount of comedic relief throughout the show. Paul Oakley Stovall is the perfect George Washington and accurately captures the expectations one has for one of the nations most loved founding fathers.

Truly this show is a must see whether you’re sitting last row of the balcony or front and center orchestra. Every angle of this masterpiece provides an exciting experience and a new perspective on the gorgeous staging and powerful music. Musical numbers are entirely clever, catchy, and expressive. I’ve no doubt this show will live a long and prosperous run alongside other classics like “The Phantom of the Opera” and “Wicked.” Lin-Manuel Miranda is a genius and provides a show that is all of the hype it receives. Musical fanatics and theatre newcomers alike will be singing Hamilton praises and searching for another opportunity to return again!

Running Time: 2 Hours 30 Minutes with one 15-minute intermission.

Advisory: Some adult language and suggestive content.

“Hamilton” runs until May 12, 2019 and is presented at the RBTL’s Auditorium Theatre in Rochester. For more information, click here.

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Theatre Review: ‘Hamilton’ at Shea’s Buffalo Theatre

/ Buffalo Theatre Guide

Well, it finally happened. “Hamilton” has arrived in Buffalo. I feel like we have been waiting for this time to come for years. Oh wait, we have. “Hamilton” fever is alive and well and I have done all I could to keep myself out of the fever zone so that I would go into this show knowing nothing. For the exception of one or two songs, I succeeded. I wanted to be surprised and I didn’t want any biases forming. I wanted to see if this show is worth the hype. I wanted to see if this show really was worth the emptying of bank accounts to see. Well here is my answer. It might not be worth emptying your bank account completely to see, but it is extremely refreshing, and I absolutely loved it.

“Hamilton” is sure to be Broadway’s new “Phantom,” running for the next 30 years. . .The American Dream comes alive in this musical.

“Hamilton” is the brainchild of Lin-Manuel Miranda, who brought us one of my favorite shows “In The Heights.” “Hamilton” tells the story of Alexander Hamilton and our founding fathers as they go through the American Revolution and form our government that we have today. Blind casting allows the actors portraying the founding fathers to be of any ethnicity and it is brilliant. Oh, and Miranda’s Hip-Hop and R&B score is exhilarating. It takes the Broadway formula, and keeps the pace flowing with songs that segue almost seamlessly from one to another. Lyrics are masterfully crafted with historical accuracy and are incredibly witty and intelligent. Miranda doesn’t skimp out on substance for style. The substance in this show is phenomenal and it is fantastic that not only are we being entertained, but we are learning something too. The music is perfect.

This story doesn’t rely on pageantry to be told. The unit set of rafters and wooden walkways are stylistically pleasing and effective. A rotating platform proves to be very useful and adds a wonderful dimension to the story. The ensemble helps build the settings of various locations and the audience is called upon to fill in the blanks. I love the minimalistic approach to storytelling, where the audience is employed to use their imaginations. It shows that the audience does not need everything spoon fed to them for the story to be told.

This cast is extremely talented. From the ensemble to the leads, there is not one person onstage in this production that does not deserve to be there. Leading the show as Alexander Hamilton is Austin Scott who balances the character’s intellect and arrogance perfectly. Scott makes great artistic choices to make this character believable and relatable. We are able to connect with him and we see that he is not a perfect man, that he has flaws like the rest of our founding fathers, but that he is real. Scott is fantastic and does not disappoint.

Josh Tower plays Aaron Burr, the narrator of our tale. Tower plays the show’s antagonist if you will, perfectly. Not only does he effortless set our story up for us, but he enters and exits the story so well. Tower brings real pain to the character, and he has plenty of heart. Again, Tower creates a character that we can relate too. Jealously, envy, and anger all color his performance. It is fantastic to watch. His performance of “The Room Where It Happens” is incredibly enjoyable as well.

Hannah Cruz is wonderful as Eliza in this production. She has the pipes to hit all the notes, and the audience instantly falls in love with her when she comes to the stage. She spills her heart and soul into “Burn” and I can say that I actually teared up during her performance. She does a wonderful job.

Paul Oakley Stovall is brilliant as George Washington. His voice booms throughout the theater sending chills down your spine. His demeanor and portrayal of Washington is unique and enjoyable.

My favorite comic relief in this show is Peter Matthew Smith as King George. Reminding me of King Herod in “Jesus Christ Superstar,” Smith is hilarious as the King. Deep belly laughs are sure to hit you every time he enters the stage.

If I had to find anything negative to say about this show, I would say that it runs a little long. Although I enjoyed the entire experience, 15 or 20 minutes less would have been welcomed in my opinion.

So, does this show live up to all the hype? Yes. “Hamilton” is sure to be Broadway’s new “Phantom,” running for the next 30 years. You need to see this show? Oh, you didn’t get tickets? Well, Shea’s is releasing tickets everyday, and there are still plenty of chances to be in the room where it happens!” The American Dream comes alive in this musical. Go see this show!

Running Time: 2 Hours 30 Minutes with one 15-minute intermission.

Advisory: Adult Language and Situations

“Hamilton” runs until December 9, 2018 and is performed at Shea’s Buffalo Theatre. For more information, click here.

ANNOUNCING #HAM4HAM LOTTERY IN BUFFALO 40 TICKETS FOR EVERY PERFORMANCE $10 EACH

/ Buffalo Theatre Guide

Producer Jeffrey Seller, Shea’s Performing Arts Center, and Albert Nocciolino announce a digital lottery for HAMILTON tickets will begin in conjunction with the show’s first performance (November 20) in Buffalo at Shea’s Buffalo Theatre.  Forty (40) tickets will be sold for every performance for $10 each.  The digital lottery will open at 11:00 AM ET on Sunday, November 18 for tickets to the Tuesday, November 20 performance.  Subsequent digital lotteries will begin two days prior to each performance.

HOW TO ENTER

  • Use the official app for HAMILTON, now available for all iOS and Android devices in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store (http://hamiltonmusical.com/app).
  • You can also visit http://hamiltonmusical.com/lottery to register.
  • The lottery will open at 11:00 AM ET two days prior to the performance date and will close for entry at 9:00 AM ET the day prior to the performance.
  • Winner and non-winner notifications will be sent at approximately 11:00 AM ET the day prior to the performance via email and SMS (if mobile number is provided).
  • No purchase or payment necessary to enter or participate.
  • Each winning entrant may purchase up to two (2) tickets.
  • Only one entry per person. Repeat entries and disposable email addresses will be discarded.
  • Tickets must be purchased online with a credit card by 4:00 PM ET the day prior to the performance using the purchase link and code in a customized notification email. Tickets not claimed by 4:00 PM ET the day prior to the performance are forfeited.
  • Lottery tickets may be picked up at will call beginning 2 hours prior to the performance with a valid photo ID. Lottery tickets void if resold.

ADDITIONAL RULES

Patrons must be 18 years or older and have a valid, non-expired photo ID that matches the name used to enter. Tickets are non-transferable. Ticket limits and prices displayed are at the sole discretion of the show and are subject to change without notice.

Lottery prices are not valid on prior purchases. Lottery ticket offer cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions. All sales final – no refunds or exchanges. Lottery may be revoked or modified at any time without notice. No purchase necessary to enter or win. A purchase will not improve the chances of winning.

Tickets for HAMILTON are currently on sale.  Patrons are advised to check the official HAMILTON channels and Ticketmaster.com for late release seats which may become available at short notice.

HAMILTON is the story of America’s Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies who became George Washington’s right-hand man during the Revolutionary War and was the new nation’s first Treasury Secretary.  Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B, and Broadway, HAMILTON is the story of America then, as told by America now.

With book, music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, direction by Thomas Kail, choreography by

Andy Blankenbuehler and music supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire, HAMILTON is based on

Ron Chernow’s biography of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton.

The HAMILTON creative team previously collaborated on the 2008 Tony Award ® Winning Best Musical

IN THE HEIGHTS. HAMILTON features scenic design by David Korins, costume design by Paul Tazewell, lighting design by Howell Binkley, sound design by Nevin Steinberg, hair and wig design by Charles G. LaPointe, casting by Telsey + Company, Bethany Knox, CSA, and General Management by Baseline Theatrical

The musical is produced by Jeffrey Seller, Sander Jacobs, Jill Furman and The Public Theater.

Launching April 2019 in Chicago, HAMILTON: THE EXHIBITION will take visitors deeper into the life and times of Alexander Hamilton through the immersive exhibit featuring a dynamic, interactive mix of in-depth scenography, lighting, sound, multimedia, music, and an audio tour narrated by Mr. Miranda. For more information and to sign up to be the first to receive news and ticket sales alerts about HAMILTON: THE EXHIBITION, please visit hamiltonexhibition.com.

The HAMILTON Original Broadway Cast Recording is available everywhere nationwide.  The HAMILTON recording received a 2016 Grammy for Best Musical Theatre Album.

For information on HAMILTON, visit www.HamiltonMusical.com, www.Facebook.com/HamiltonMusical, www.Instagram.com/HamiltonMusical and www.Twitter.com/HamiltonMusical.

Tony Award-Winning Broadway Star from ‘Hamilton’ Leslie Odom, Jr. Performing at Shea’s Black-Tie Gala

/ Buffalo Theatre Guide

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Shea’s Performing Arts Center is proud to announce that Tony Award-Winning Actor from the original Broadway cast of Hamilton, Leslie Odom, Jr., will be performing at Shea’s Black Tie Gala on Friday, April 20, 2018!

Leslie Odom, Jr. took home the Tony Award for Best Leading Actor in a Musical for his portrayal of ‘Aaron Burr,’ opposite Lin-Manuel Miranda, in the blockbuster Broadway sensation, Hamilton.  He is also a Grammy Award Winner as principal soloist on Hamilton’s Original Broadway Cast Recording, which won the 2015 Award for Best Musical Theatre Album.  

“Leslie Odom, Jr. is one of the most dynamic and multi-faceted performers to take the stage on Broadway,” said Michael G. Murphy, President of Shea’s.  “To have someone of his exceptional talent and extraordinary artistic caliber perform at Shea’s Gala is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that we are proud to present.”

Odom, Jr. made his Broadway debut at the age of 17 in Rent, before heading to Carnegie Mellon University’s prestigious School of Drama where he graduated with honors.  Additional theatre credits include Leap of Faith on Broadway, for which he won the 2012 Astaire Award for Outstanding Male Dancer on Broadway and was nominated for a Drama League Award; the 2014 musical Venice, which also played at The Public Theater; and the Encores! Off-Center production of Tick, Tick… Boom! which was his first time working with Hamilton creator, Lin-Manuel Miranda.

On the small screen, Leslie is best-known for his portrayal of ‘Sam Strickland’ in the NBC musical series, “Smash,” and his recurring role as ‘Reverend Curtis Scott’ on “Law & Order: SVU.”  He’s also appeared in episodes of “Gotham,” “Person of Interest,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “House of Lies,” “Vanished” and “CSI: Miami.”   Just released on November 10th, you can find Odom, Jr. in Kenneth Branagh’s reimaging of Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express featuring an all-star cast that includes Johnny Depp, Penelope Cruz, Dame Judi Dench, and more.

“We could not be more excited to host Leslie Odom, Jr. at Shea’s Performing Arts Center,” John Schaller, Shea’s Director of Development.  “To have one of the most accomplished and distinguished members of the original cast of Hamilton, at Shea’s on the heels of his celebrated run on Broadway – and in advance of the Hamilton Tour premiering next season at Shea’s,  means a lot for this special event.”

The annual Black-Tie Gala, sponsored in part by Ticketmaster, is the single most important fundraising event for Shea’s Performing Arts Center.  For more information on attending, or to become an Honorary Sponsor, call (716) 829-1170.  And you can follow the excitement leading up the event and the evening-of April 20, 2018, by using #SheasGala2018 on social media.