Hamilton in Singapore review: Why the iconic musical is best seen live

"Who lives, who dies, who tells your story?" That’s the finale song of the musical Hamilton, based on the life of Alexander Hamilton, which premiered on Broadway in 2015.

As it turns out, it would be none other than American songwriter-actor Lin-Manuel Miranda who would tell the story of Hamilton, one of America’s least-known Founding Fathers (before the musical, at least).

From its off-Broadway debut to its global acclaim, Hamilton has garnered unprecedented accolades, including Tony, Grammy, Olivier Awards, and even a Pulitzer Prize. 

And now, after years of anticipation, Singapore audiences have the opportunity to experience the magic of Hamilton live at the Sands Theatre in Marina Bay Sands until June 9.

Synopsis of Hamilton

For those unfamiliar, Hamilton takes audiences on a journey through the life of Alexander Hamilton, from his humble beginnings as an orphan to his pivotal role in shaping the nation. Based on Ron Chernow's biography, Lin-Manuel Miranda's masterful storytelling weaves together themes of ambition, love, and political intrigue, set against a backdrop of hip-hop, jazz, R&B, and Broadway music.

Production

The Singapore production of Hamilton effectively delivers and impresses on all fronts. From the intricacies of the stage construction to the seamless execution of every scene, the production exudes a palpable energy.

At the heart of Hamilton's production is its ingenious use of a signature turntable, a marvel of scenic design that adds depth and dynamism to the choreography. This dynamic element adds depth and dimension to key moments throughout the show, enhancing the emotional impact and narrative resonance.

Whether it's the backtracking sequence in "Satisfied," where the turntable highlights the emotional turmoil of Angelica Schuyler, or the duels where the revolving stage intensifies the tension of the moment, the turntable serves as both a practical and symbolic element of the production. 

The cast

For the Asian premiere, the company is led by Jason Arrow as Alexander Hamilton, Rachelle Ann Go as Eliza Hamilton, DeAundre’ Woods as Aaron Burr, Akina Edmonds as Angelica Schuyler, Darnell Abraham as George Washington, David Park as Marquis de Lafayette/Thomas Jefferson, Shaka Bagadu Cook as Hercules Mulligan/James Madison, Jacob Guzman as John Lauren/Philip Hamilton, Elandrah Eramiha as Peggy Schuyler/Maria Reynolds and Brent Hill as King George.

Touring casts can often vary in quality, but the performance of Hamilton's touring cast in Singapore is undoubtedly a resounding success. Arrow's Hamilton is a tour de force of emotion and determination, capturing the essence of a man driven by ambition yet haunted by his past. 

David Park shines in his dual roles as Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson; for the latter, he imbues the character with natural humour and charisma, breathing life and drawing laughter with every scene he graces.

Akina Edmonds captivates as Angelica Schuyler, delivering her character's introspective solos with poise and passion. Also worth mentioning is DeAundre' Woods, who delivers a nuanced performance as Aaron Burr – his portrayal of the complex antagonist eliciting both sympathy and intrigue. 

And Darnell Abraham's powerful rendition of "One Last Time" (one of my personal favourites) as George Washington is a highlight – his commanding presence definitely fills the stage with gravitas and emotion, igniting goosebumps.

Music and lyrics

But perhaps the true star of Hamilton is its groundbreaking music, which seamlessly blends genres to create a sound that is both contemporary and timeless. Miranda's lyrics are a masterclass in storytelling, weaving together intricate wordplay and poignant imagery to evoke the spirit of revolution and the quest for freedom. 

From the infectious energy of “The Schuyler Sisters” to the raw emotion of “Burn”, each song is a testament to the power of music to capture the human experience. 

And while some may initially baulk at the idea of a hip-hop musical about America's Founding Fathers, Hamilton proves that the genre is not only capable of conveying history but also enriching it with new perspectives and insights.

In conclusion

In addition to its artistic brilliance, Hamilton is a powerful reminder of the impact storytelling can have. It leaves audiences not just entertained, but also enlightened. 

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a music lover, or simply in search of an unforgettable night at the theatre, Hamilton is a must-see. 

Presented by Base Entertainment Asia, the Singapore tour of Hamilton is showing at Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands, until June 9. Book your tickets here.