If you haven’t heard of Hamilton by now, you might be living under a rock—sorry, but it’s true. This groundbreaking musical took the world by storm when it debuted in 2015. Even before that, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s performance at the White House during Obama’s presidency had already hinted at the phenomenon it would become.
Back then, Hamilton dominated every community I was part of. From the Attack on Titan fandom at Anime North to the bookish side of YouTube, it was everywhere. So, when I visited New York City for the first time, staying in Queens and passing through New Jersey, it felt extra special because of the musical’s deep love for NYC.
By 2020, Hamilton had generated well over $500 million in revenue, and I can’t imagine how much more it has made since then.
Hamilton musical in Toronto: The first attempt
When Hamilton was finally announced for Toronto in early 2020, I was thrilled. I secured my tickets through a group order and couldn’t wait to see it in March. But then, of course, the world shut down. The pandemic hit, and the entire run was cancelled. I got my refund, but I was crushed. After all that anticipation, I wouldn’t get to experience Hamilton live.
Then, in July 2020, Disney+ released a filmed version of the original Broadway cast. I hosted a virtual watch party with friends, and while it wasn’t the same as seeing it in person, it was still an unforgettable experience.
Finally getting to see the Hamilton musical in Toronto
When they announced the Hamilton musical in Toronto, the city went all out. Marketing was everywhere—TTC buses, streetcars, subway stations, and massive billboards along the 401. The excitement was undeniable. But since I had already seen it on Disney+, I felt a little less eager this time around.
Then, in July, my husband surprised me with tickets for my birthday. That’s right—I was finally going to see Hamilton live! And let me tell you, after years of waiting, it was absolutely worth it.
What is Hamilton about? A quick history lesson
If you’re unfamiliar, Hamilton tells the story of Alexander Hamilton, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. Born in the Caribbean, he later moved to New York, where he became a key figure in the American Revolution. As the first Secretary of the Treasury, he played a crucial role in establishing the U.S. financial system. His legacy is brought to life through Hamilton, blending history with hip-hop, R&B, and traditional Broadway music in an electrifying way.
The magic of the Toronto production
Experiencing Hamilton in Toronto was nothing short of breathtaking. The set design, the period-accurate yet modern costumes, and the intricate choreography made the performance come alive. The cast delivered powerful performances, capturing the essence of the original while adding their own unique flair.]
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s decision to use a diverse cast and infuse the musical with hip-hop and R&B makes Hamilton feel relevant and fresh. The fast-paced storytelling, witty lyrics, and emotional depth make it impossible to look away. Seeing it live allowed me to appreciate the nuances—the energy of the actors, the lighting shifts, the live orchestra—that I had missed in the Disney+ version.
Hamilton’s impact on Toronto’s theatre scene
The arrival of Hamilton in Toronto was a major event for the city’s theatre industry. It brought an influx of audiences, many of whom were experiencing live theatre for the first time. The demand for tickets was high, boosting tourism and creating job opportunities in the arts sector.
But more importantly, Hamilton made theatre feel accessible to a wider audience. It broke traditional barriers, drawing in people from different backgrounds and making history engaging for a new generation.
Hamilton as an educational experience
Beyond entertainment, Hamilton has immense educational value. It brings history to life in a way that textbooks simply can’t. Students and history lovers can connect with the past through Miranda’s clever lyrics and storytelling. The musical also sparked various educational initiatives, including workshops and student matinees, making it a valuable tool for learning.
Final thoughts: Was Hamilton in Toronto worth it?
Absolutely. Seeing Hamilton live was a dream come true. The production, the performances, and the sheer energy of the theatre made it an unforgettable experience. Whether you’ve watched it on Disney+ or not, nothing compares to seeing it in person.
If Hamilton ever returns to Toronto, I highly recommend grabbing a ticket. It’s a show that lives up to the hype, and I’ll forever be grateful that I finally got to witness its magic live on stage.
