Displaying items by tag: Hamilton

Nearly a decade after it first upended the American musical, Hamilton returns to Chicago’s CIBC Theatre as part of Broadway In Chicago’s 2026 season, and its cultural voltage hasn’t dimmed one bit. Inspired by Ron Chernow’s book, Alexander Hamilton, Lin‑Manuel Miranda’s genre‑shifting epic — part biography, part political thriller, part hip‑hop opera — still hits with the force of a story determined to be heard. Having seen it in its inaugural year, I can say this revival lands even sharper, richer, and more assured than ever.

Alexander Hamilton didn’t just witness the birth of the United States — he helped engineer its architecture. As a delegate at the Constitutional Convention, he argued fiercely for a unified national government, and though not the primary drafter, he became one of its most influential defenders, authoring the majority of The Federalist Papers to secure the Constitution’s ratification. His imprint only deepened from there: he built the nation’s financial system from the ground up, established the U.S. Treasury, championed a national bank, and laid the groundwork for the country’s credit, industry, and economic identity. In Hamilton, these achievements aren’t treated as dry civics lessons but as the combustible fuel of a man determined to transform a fragile collection of states into a functioning nation — a legacy as complicated as it is foundational. The musical captures not just his ascent, but the way his ideas became the scaffolding of a country still deciding what it wanted to be.

Through songs like “My Shot,” “The Room Where It Happens,” and “Hurricane,” Miranda reframes the Founding Fathers not as marble statues but as flawed, hungry, deeply human figures fighting to define a nation and themselves. What Miranda is ultimately trying to convey — and what this production underscores beautifully — is that America’s story has always been messy, contested, and built by people who rarely saw themselves as the heroes of their own narrative.

Director Thomas Kail’s staging remains a masterclass in kinetic storytelling. The turntable choreography, the razor‑sharp transitions, and the way bodies carve through space all contribute to a sense of history constantly in motion. Under his direction, the show feels both epic and immediate — a revolution unfolding in real time.

l-r-Tyler Fauntleroy as Alexander Hamilton and A.D. Weaver as George Washington in Hamilton at CIBC Theatre. Photo by Joan Marcus.

What continues to astonish about Hamilton is how much storytelling power resides in its deceptively simple visual world. David Korins’ now‑iconic set — all timber, ropes, brickwork, and scaffolding — frames the action like an unfinished nation still under construction. The exposed architecture becomes a living metaphor for the country Hamilton is trying to build, while the revolving stage keeps history literally turning beneath the actors’ feet. Paul Tazewell’s costumes layer silhouettes with subtle modern inflections, allowing the cast to move with the velocity the score demands while still grounding the story in its 18th‑century roots. The palette shifts almost imperceptibly as alliances form and fracture, and the contrast between the Schuyler sisters’ elegance, the soldiers’ grit, and King George’s absurd opulence adds texture to every scene. Together, the set and costumes create a world that feels both historical and urgently contemporary — a perfect visual match for Miranda’s reimagined revolution.

This Chicago cast brings its own intensity. The Chicago engagement of Hamilton boasts a powerhouse company led by Tyler Fauntleroy, who delivers a relentless, razor‑sharp Alexander Hamilton—equal parts tactician, poet, and live wire. His performance feels carved from pure momentum, capturing both Hamilton’s brilliance and his self‑destructive drive. Opposite him, Jimmie “J.J.” Jeter turns in a magnetic, exquisitely controlled Aaron Burr, layering charm, calculation, and simmering envy into a portrayal that peaks beautifully in a soul‑baring “Wait For It” and a show‑stopping “The Room Where It Happens.” Lauren Mariasoosay brings warmth, emotional clarity, and a quiet steel to Eliza Hamilton (through April 12th), while Amanda Simone Lee commands the stage with fierce intelligence and vocal fire as Angelica Schuyler. Lily Soto shifts effortlessly between the wide‑eyed innocence of Peggy Schuyler and the seductive, wounded edge of Maria Reynolds through April 12th, with Nadina Hassan stepping into the roles beginning April 14th. A true force, A.D. Weaver anchors the production with statesmanlike gravitas as George Washington, and Christian Magby all but steals the show with his dual swagger as Lafayette and Jefferson—two performances so distinct they feel like separate universes. Nathan Haydel brings youthful fire and heartbreaking vulnerability to both John Laurens and Philip Hamilton, while Eddie Ortega grounds the ensemble with muscular presence as Hercules Mulligan and James Madison. And rounding it out, Matt Bittner delivers a perfectly petty, wickedly funny King George III, milking every entrance for maximum delight, stealing the moment with a perfectly calibrated blend of comedy and menace in “You’ll Be Back.”.

Musically, the production remains a marvel. The blend of hip‑hop, R&B, traditional musical theatre, and lyrical density still feels revolutionary, and the orchestra at the CIBC gives the score a muscular, propulsive energy. Even familiar numbers feel newly alive in this space. The production is expansive and brimming with moments that land with exhilarating force.

The run at the CIBC Theatre continues through April 26th, giving audiences a generous window to revisit — or finally experience — the show that redefined what Broadway could be.

In a city that knows its way around bold storytelling, Hamilton still stands out. It’s a reminder that history is not a fixed monument but a living argument — and that the voices shaping it are far more diverse, complicated, and compelling than the textbooks ever let on. Whether you’re seeing it for the first time or the fifth, this production makes the revolution feel brand new.

Highly recommended.

For tickets and/or more show information, click here.

This review is proudly shared with our friends at www.TheatreInChicago.com. 

Broadway In Chicago and Metra continue the free ride promotion with HAMILTON — The unforgettable story of passion, unstoppable ambition, and the dawn of a new nation, playing at the CIBC Theatre (18 W. Monroe St.) from March 4 through April 26.

Getting there is easy — and free! Ride Metra free to and from the theatre with your HAMILTON ticket, valid on the date of your performance only. This special offer is available throughout the run and includes round-trip travel. Just show your ticket to the conductor each way and enjoy a relaxing ride into the city before the curtain rises, and back home after the show! Metra offers a short, walkable connection from any of its five downtown stations, each less than a mile away from the CIBC Theatre located in the heart of the Loop—with compatible schedules throughout the day and evening. Metra provides the ideal solution for theatre lovers seeking a safe, convenient, and stress-free ride. To plan your ride and view Metra schedules, visit, Metra.com/Hamilton.

Individual tickets for HAMILTON are on sale now and range from $63–$208, with a select number of premium seats available. Additional fees apply for online purchases. See below for additional ticket and performance schedule information.


ABOUT HAMILTON
The unforgettable story of passion, unstoppable ambition, and the dawn of a new nation, seen by more than 28 million people around the world.

HAMILTON is the epic saga that follows the rise of Founding Father Alexander HAMILTON as he fights for honor, love, and a legacy that would shape the course of a nation. Based on Ron Chernow’s acclaimed biography and set to a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B, and Broadway, HAMILTON has had a profound impact on culture, politics, and education. HAMILTON features book, music, and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, direction by Thomas Kail, choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler, and musical supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire. In addition to its 11 Tony Awards®, it has won Grammy® and Olivier Awards, and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

PERFORMANCE AND TICKET INFORMATION
The performance schedule is available at www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

Individual ticket prices range from $63–$208 (as of 2/18/26; prices subject to change and based on availability), with a select number of premium seats available for all performances. Tickets are available at www.BroadwayInChicago.com , or at the box office of any Broadway In Chicago venue. Additional fees apply for online purchases. Group tickets for parties of 10 or more are available by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710 or emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

ABOUT METRA
Metra is an essential resource that safely and reliably connects individuals to the things that matter most in their lives — their work, their homes and their families. 

Connect with Metra:  Facebook  | Twitter  |  YouTube |  Instagram |  LinkedIn  | metra.com

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO
Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 26 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country. A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining up to 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, James M. Nederlander Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at The Auditorium.

For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.
Follow @broadwayinchicago on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Bluesky #broadwayinchicago

Producer Jeffrey Seller and Broadway In Chicago announce a digital lottery for HAMILTON tickets will begin in conjunction with the show’s first performance on March 4, 2026, in Chicago, IL at the CIBC Theatre (18 W. Monroe St.).  A limited number of tickets will be available for every performance for $10 each.  The lottery will first open at 10:00 AM Friday, February 20, and will close at 12:00 PM on Thursday, February 26, for tickets to performances Wednesday, March 4—Sunday, March 8. Subsequent digital lotteries will begin each Friday and close the following Thursday for the upcoming week’s performances. Ticket information and performance schedule are available below.

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 (https://HAMILTONmusical.com/us-tour/lottery/#app).
• The lottery will open at 10:00 AM every Friday and will close for entry at 12:00 PM the next Thursday prior to the following week’s performances.
• Winner notifications will be sent between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM every Thursday for the upcoming week’s performances via email and mobile push notification.  Winners will have two hours to claim and pay for their ticket(s). 
• No purchase or payment is 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.
• 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.
• All times listed are in the local time zone. 

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. 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 www.broadwayinchicago.com for late release seats which may become available at short notice.

ABOUT HAMILTON
The unforgettable story of passion, unstoppable ambition, and the dawn of a new nation, seen by more than 28 million people around the world.

HAMILTON is the epic saga that follows the rise of Founding Father Alexander HAMILTON as he fights for honor, love, and a legacy that would shape the course of a nation. Based on Ron Chernow’s acclaimed biography and set to a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B, and Broadway, HAMILTON has had a profound impact on culture, politics, and education. HAMILTON features book, music, and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, direction by Thomas Kail, choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler, and musical supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire. In addition to its 11 Tony Awards®, it has won Grammy® and Olivier Awards, and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

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, and casting by Telsey + Company, Bethany Knox, CSA.

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

The HAMILTON Original Broadway Cast Recording is available everywhere nationwide. 

For information on HAMILTON, visit: HAMILTONMusical.com. Follow HAMILTON on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & TikTok @HAMILTONMusical.

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
The performance schedule is available at www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

TICKET INFORMATION (as of 2/11/26, based on availability and subject to change)
Single ticket prices range from $63–$208, with a select number of premium seats available for all performances. Individual tickets are available by visiting www.BroadwayInChicago.com, or going to any Broadway In Chicago venue box office. Additional fees apply for online purchases. Tickets are available for groups of 10 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710 or emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO
Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 26 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country. A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining up to 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, James M. Nederlander Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at The Auditorium.

For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.
Follow @BroadwayInChicago on Facebook, Instagram , TikTok, Bluesky #BroadwayInChicago

TICKETS HERE

The Nederlander Theatre erupted in thunderous applause as the lights went down on the triumphant return of “Hamilton” to Chicago. Lin-Manuel Miranda's groundbreaking musical, finishing a successful run in Anchorage, Alaska, delivered an electrifying performance that left the Chicago audience in awe of its scope and magnitude. Chicago lifted “Hamilton” on its broad shoulders and has no intention of letting it down.

"Hamilton" is a masterclass in diversity and talent. Under the skilled direction of Thomas Kail and choreography of Andy Blankenbuehler, a diverse cast brings the story of Alexander Hamilton to life with passion and energy. Pierre Jean Gonzalez commands the stage with his charismatic presence and powerful vocals, more than ably supported by a talented ensemble that includes Deon'te Goodman as Aaron Burr, Nikisha Williams as Eliza Schuyler, Marcus Choi as George Washington, Lencia Kebede as Angelica Schuyler, Jared Howelton as Marquis de Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson, Eddie Ortega as Hercules Mulligan and James Madison, Tyler Fauntleroy as John Laurens and Philip Hamilton and King George is played by Neil Haskell.

Company of 'Hamilton' at James M. Nederlander Theatre

Seeing the production for the third time, it’s hard not to make comparisons. I felt Goodman’s Burr was a tad bit passive and slow to anger in the face of Hamilton’s slights. Choi’s Washington was a commanding and inspiring figure. He brought a sense of dignity and gravitas to the role. “One Last Time” was as much a tearjerker as “It’s Quiet Uptown”. Williams’ Eliza is a beautiful and heartbreaking character. She brings a sense of grace, strength, and vulnerability to her interpretation. Howelton’s Lafayette/Jefferson was big and energetic, a joy to watch. I missed the chemistry and affection between Lauren and Hamilton, a minor detail, but still noticeable.

The ensemble cast is outstanding, delivering stunning performances in both the vocal and dance numbers. The choreography is inventive and exhilarating, seamlessly blending hip-hop, jazz, and ballet to create a unique and visually stunning performance. The show's musical score, which blends hip-hop, R&B, and traditional Broadway music, is also a highlight. The songs are catchy, thought-provoking, and emotionally resonant. Miranda has said hip hop is the "heart and soul" of Hamilton. He has incorporated elements of the genre throughout the show, from rapid-fire rapping to the use of samples and beats. Some of the specific hip hop artists that have influenced Miranda include The Notorious B.I.G., Jay-Z, Nas, and Eminem.

Stephanie Jae Park, Ta_Rae Campbell and Paige Smallwood in 'Hamilton'

Hamilton is a truly unique musical that draws on a wide range of musical influences. Miranda has said that he wanted to create a musical that would be "new and fresh, but also familiar and accessible." He has certainly succeeded in doing so, and Hamilton has become one of the most popular and critically acclaimed musicals of all time. I personally think it should be required reviewing for history classes. Learning American history has never been so entertaining.

Hamilton is a powerful and moving musical, teaching viewers many important lessons. It is a story about ambition, perseverance, forgiveness, the power of storytelling and of course, to never throwing away your shot.

When: Through Dec. 30

Where: James M. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St.

Tickets: $42.50+

Info: Broadwayinchicago.com

Digital lotteries will begin each Friday and end the following Thursday for the upcoming weeks performance - 

www.broadwayinchicago.com/hamilton/ham4ham-lottery-details-2023/

For tickets and/or more show information visit https://www.broadwayinchicago.com/show/hamilton/. 

What more can be said about the phenomenon that is Hamilton: An American Musical? The ever-growing hype, not to mention the genius content, speak for themselves. It was nothing less than an absolute thrill to finally sit down to see this musical after nearly a year of obsessing over the 46 - yes, forty-six - song soundtrack. Who ever knew that textbook American history could be so exciting and jarringly relevant?

The nearly three hour, entirely sung/rapped performance takes the audience through the life of the "ten dollar founding father" Alexander Hamilton. Before creator Lin-Manuel Miranda masterfully brought Hamilton's biography to the stage, everyone who isn't a history teacher likely only knew Hamilton from the ten dollar bill, but, contrary to a recurring lyric in the show, there were a million things he did for the country. Namely, he created a financial plan that saved America in a time of major debt as well as established the first national bank. If that sounds dry, it's only because you haven't heard "The Room Where It Happens" yet.

Not only does the story cover Hamilton's achievements and downfalls, but it paints a vivid portrait of colonial life, the complications of war during the American Revolution, and the messy aftermath of establishing a new nation. Other important historical figures we'd normally associate with flat images in books or on paper money are also presented as fully-fledged and in the flesh, such as George Washington, Aaron Burr, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison, among others. Central to the story as well are the two female leads of the show, Eliza and Angelica Schuyler, who were daughters of a wealthy revolutionary-turned-senator and may not have been widely known before but are certainly getting the recognition they deserve now. To top it off, these exclusively white historical figures are portrayed by people of color, keenly driving home the show's message regarding immigrants' roles in the founding of our country and representing a current snapshot of American life.

All of this is fueled by the exquisitely-crafted music and intelligent lyrics that have astounded listeners of all ages and creeds. With most of the lyrics rapped, there is room for an incredible amount of detail, proving further that Miranda is nothing less than a creative genius. Only rap would allow literal paragraphs of information to fit into a single song, and this style serves the purpose of the musical brilliantly in conjunction with the more traditionally sung parts that, in turn, give the audience small breaks to digest everything.

The Chicago cast is immensely talented - imagine all the actors who auditioned for these coveted roles - and can easily hold a candle to its Broadway equivalent. Many of the actors play multiple roles, impressively switching characters from Act One to Act Two. Favorites for me included Chris Lee as a hilariously arrogant Jefferson, Ari Afsar as a strong yet vulnerable Eliza, and Joshua Henry as the smooth-voiced nemesis to Hamilton, Aaron Burr (sir).

It's hard to say when the last time a musical of this magnitude and social significance came around, as nothing that has been done before can really compare to Hamilton. Truly unique, engaging, educational, sharp, funny, heartbreaking, and moving, we should appreciate getting to witness this watershed moment in Broadway history and heed advice from the repeated Hamilton lyric to "look around at how lucky we are to be alive right now!"

Hamilton is playing at the Private Bank Theater at 18 W Monroe St. now and indefinitely. Tickets can be purchased on Ticketmaster, or you can enter the daily ticket lottery here.