Reflecting on a Decade of ‘Hamilton’: Does It Still Captivate Audiences Today?

Theater is all about timing. When a show is set, when it was written, and when it’s performed all shape how we experience it. This is particularly true for “Hamilton,” Lin-Manuel Miranda’s hit musical about Alexander Hamilton, running at Seattle’s Paramount Theatre through March 2.

What does “Hamilton” mean today? Set around 1776, the story follows young men who yearn for independence from British rule. Their lives are fueled by ambition and a fierce rivalry between Hamilton and Aaron Burr, two figures who played pivotal roles in shaping America.

Next, consider when it was written. “Hamilton” premiered off-Broadway on January 20, 2015, in a time of high hopes during Barack Obama’s presidency. The show breaks new ground with diverse casting and a mix of musical styles from hip-hop to jazz. It was funny, clever, and full of high-energy performances, quickly earning acclaim with 11 Tony Awards.

Fast forward to now, with the national tour taking place during a new political climate. The performers are strong but vary in ability. Blaine Alden Krauss stands out as Hamilton, bringing passion to the role. Deon’te Goodman portrays Burr and has a remarkable voice but sometimes struggles with clarity in his delivery. Together with the ensemble, they capture the spirit of the original show while tackling their characters with fresh interpretations.

The world of “Hamilton” has expanded since 2015. It’s become a cultural phenomenon, touring worldwide and earning numerous accolades, including Grammy and Olivier Awards. The show is so storied that many audience members are already familiar with its songs, making each performance an event of its own.

However, it’s tough to follow the original cast. Their legacy looms large, and audiences often have high expectations, which can overshadow new actors. Even humorous characters like King George III draw laughs before they appear, as audiences know what’s coming. The fast-paced rap in songs like “Guns and Ships” remains a challenge for any new performer filling those roles.

Looking back at the history the show portrays, we see a mixed legacy of our founding figures. The question lingers: “Who lives, who dies, who tells your story?” These words resonate differently now, especially amidst political struggles. The line, “Immigrants: we get the job done,” feels particularly poignant in today’s climate.

The dynamics between Hamilton’s boldness and Burr’s caution mirror ongoing political divides. Hamilton’s challenge to Burr, “If you stand for nothing, what will you fall for?” becomes a rallying cry in a world that sometimes feels overwhelmed by indecision.

Yet, rather than being merely nostalgic, the 2025 version of “Hamilton” feels like a call to action. It reminds us that achieving freedom doesn’t guarantee it for future generations. As Hamilton himself states, “What is a legacy?” The answer, it seems, is about planting seeds for a future we might not witness.

At its core, “Hamilton” remains a powerful reminder that shaping our culture requires effort from all of us. The idealism deep within the show still sparks hope—a hope that continues to call for engagement and awareness as we navigate our collective path forward.