Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Both revolutionary in subject matter and in its impact on the theatre world, Hamilton has fast become one of the most beloved musicals of all time. Certified Hamilfan’s know the cast recording off by heart before even setting foot inside a theatre while favourite quotes have entered popular culture as its strength of message and sheer brilliance are praised the world over.

Embarking on its first ever (and much-anticipated) UK and Ireland tour, Hamilton has arrived at Manchester’s Palace Theatre for an incredible 15 week run, ensuring theatre fans from across the region get their opportunity to be in the room where it happens.

Hamilton tells the fascinating story of American founding father Alexander Hamilton, with a book, music, and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda. This is a history lesson like no other as hip-hop, jazz, R&B and traditional musical theatre blend together to create a stunning score, reframing the traditional and driving it forward for a new generation. Throw in direction from Thomas Kail, orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire and incredible choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler and you’ve got the recipe for the perfect piece of theatre. Add to this a cast of insane talent and the result is a complete work of art.

Taking on the titular role is Shaq Taylor: Taylor’s Hamilton is a strong, commanding visionary who proves undoubtedly that the pen is far mightier than the sword. He takes us on an incredible journey starting off, “young, scrappy and hungry” and ending the show leaving us questioning our own lives and legacies, “Who lives, who dies, who tells your story?”. He delivers Lin-Manuel Miranda’s complex lyrics with a relaxed ease and an immense precision.

Sam Oladeinde as Aaron Burr is tremendous, arrogant and scoffing one moment, defeated and broken the next, his delivery of Wait For It perfectly highlights the brilliance of this piece, as his focus shifts from contemplative silence to roaring energy within the blink of an eye. His character development and nuanced delivery as Hamilton’s foe is second to none.

Billy Nevers is a remarkable Marquis de Lafayette/Thomas Jefferson, all bounding energy and slick beats he truly shines on stage. Perfectly cast, he brings real depth and well-judged humour to both roles giving an unforgettable performance.

KM Drew Boateng shows incredible versatility as Hercules Mulligan/James Madison, two polar opposites whom Boateng more than masters while DeAngelo Jones as John Laurens/Phillip Hamilton is a joy, full of fun, bravado and brilliance.

Maya Britto gives a world class performance as Eliza Hamilton, her solo Burn is heartbreakingly beautiful while her soaring vocals during the finale will make your heart swell. Aisha Jawando compliments Britto entirely as loving older sister Angelica, punchy and powerful delivering riffs to die for. Making up the trio of sisters is Gabriela Benedetti as Peggy Schuyler/Maria Reynolds who gets her well-deserved moment in the spotlight during Say No to This with vocals as smooth as silk.

This cast bring out the humour in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s script like I’ve never seen before, they are a tight knit team and the trust they clearly have in each other takes their collective performance to the next level.

Daniel Boys further ramps up the laughs as the stomping, spoilt King George, while special mention must also go to Charles Simmons as George Washington, a calming presence amongst the compelling force that is Alexander Hamilton.

Hamilton truly is an ensemble production with the company taking on multiple roles and pushing the story forward through Blankenbuehler’s immaculate & intricate choreography. Their level of skill is mind-blowing. The diversity of this cast enriches this production wholeheartedly and will leave you wishing you could retake your seat and watch it immediately all over again. Manchester waited for it and Hamilton has well and truly delivered. Rise up and get yourselves to Manchester where Hamilton will turn your world upside down, epic in scale, breathtaking in brilliance.

Hamilton is on at Manchester’s Palace theatre until Saturday 24th February tickets are available here.