Not sure why anyone would even do this, but if you took your seat determined to play down the magnificence of Hamilton, prepare to be left thoroughly crestfallen. You might not like hip hop; you may baulk at the USA’s origin story; you could even feel permanently lukewarm at the entire concept of musical theatre. All those preconceptions will be shot to pieces by the majesty of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s game-changing production which, were it a ten-part streaming-service drama, would most likely be worthy but stultifying. But this vibrant cast can rap and act as if their characters’ lives depended upon itP.. 

Shaq Taylor provides strong leadership in the central role of Alexander Hamilton, the Founding Father who has been largely sidelined in that period’s narrative in favour of George Washington, John Adams, James Madison and Thomas Jefferson. Sam Oladeinde is note perfect as Aaron Burr, the lawyer who became Jefferson’s vice president and whose slow-burning animosity leads to an appalling final act.

Given the wave of exhilaration which Hamilton largely rides upon, you shouldn’t feel overly weighed down by this history lesson, but still, light relief is provided by Daniel Boys. His King George mocks, teases and chides America for having broken off the special relationship, in segments which very nearly threaten to steal the whole show. It’s a production which also pays heed to the tale’s women, with Maya Britto and Aisha Jawando impactful as the Schuyler sisters.

For those who have avoided the actual history books about 1776 and all that, or managed not to stumble upon Miranda’s original Broadway staging via their Disney+ subscription, such blissfully unaware audiences probably won’t expect the show to be as side-rippingly funny or heart-crushingly moving as it turns out to be. If any tickets are left, they could well be few and far between, so move quickly if you want to be in the room where Hamilton happens.

Hamilton tours the UK until Saturday 25 October 2025; reviewed at Festival Theatre, Edinburgh.