the mommy avenger

Last night, I had the pleasure of seeing a performance of the acclaimed production of Hamilton at the Eccles in Salt Lake City. This production, which has taken the theater world by storm since its debut, did not disappoint, delivering a powerful and captivating performance that left the audience spellbound.

Blaine Alden Krauss as Alexander Hamilton was nothing short of powerful. His portrayal of the ambitious and driven founding father was infused with a raw intensity and vulnerability that brought depth to the character. Krauss’s vocal prowess shone through in every song, particularly in “My Shot” and “The Room Where It Happens,” where his dynamic range and emotional delivery captivated the audience. His ability to seamlessly transition from moments of fiery determination to reflective introspection made his performance both compelling and relatable.

Equally impressive was Kendal Sayuri Yokoyama’s portrayal of Eliza Hamilton. Yokoyama brought a heartfelt and poignant presence to the stage, capturing Eliza’s strength, grace, and resilience. Her rendition of “Burn” was a highlight of the evening, showcasing her powerful voice and emotional depth. Her ability to convey Eliza’s journey from a devoted wife to a woman reclaiming her own story was truly inspiring.

Paul Louis Lessard as King George III was another standout favorite (my favorite part of the show). His portrayal of the pompous yet comically charming monarch added a delightful contrast to the intense drama of the main storyline. Lessard’s impeccable comedic timing and charismatic presence brought the house down during his performances of “You’ll Be Back” and its reprises. His exaggerated expressions and playful mannerisms had the audience in stitches, providing much-needed moments of levity amidst the historical narrative. I do wish that we got to see him more on stage.

The talent we see in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s writing cannot be overstated. Miranda’s unique blend of hip-hop, R&B, and traditional musical theater creates a vibrant and energetic score that propels the narrative forward with relentless momentum. The clever wordplay, historical references, and intricate rhyme schemes are a testament to Miranda’s masterful command of language. Each song serves not only to entertain but also to delve deeper into the characters’ motivations and the complexities of the revolutionary period.

The staging and choreography were equally impressive, with the set design and lighting enhancing the storytelling in innovative ways. The use of a rotating stage allowed for seamless transitions between scenes and added a dynamic visual element to the performance. The ensemble cast was exceptional, executing the complex choreography with precision and energy. Their synchronized movements and expressive performances added depth to the narrative, creating a rich and immersive theatrical experience.

Hamilton is here in Salt Lake City for a limited run until September 1, 2024. So don’t miss your shot to see this much talked about musical and grab your tickets now. This production not only entertains but also educates and inspires, reminding us of the enduring power of storytelling and the impact of our shared history.

Be sure to check out all the great shows coming up for the 24-25 Broadway at the Eccles season, too. There are some exciting shows coming to Utah this year like Life of Pi, Wicked, and Les Miserables to only name a few!

_{*we were invited to facilitate a feature, all opinions are our own*}