Jake Weinstein, Photography Manager

Written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, “Hamilton” has become a worldwide hit since its debut on Feb. 14, 2015.

    I attended the spectacle on Jan. 5, having listened to and enjoyed the soundtrack previously.  When the show came to Pittsburgh, I leaped at the chance to attend.

    The musical aspect of the show was splendid, with personal favorite songs including “Satisfied,” “Non-Stop” and “The Story of Tonight.” The performance seemed to have a faster tempo in the majority of the songs compared to the album, which helped to keep the musical moving.

    The lead for the first six shows of the tour was Austin Scott as Alexander Hamilton, with Edred Utomi taking up the role beginning Jan. 6.

    Scott’s performance, for me, was spectacular. During the beginning scene, his vocals filled the room with confidence that left the whole crowd cheering with applause as he roared “I am not throwing away my shot!”

     The female lead, Eliza Hamilton, played by Hannah Cruz, had a couple performances that were a little underwhelming. In particular, the songs “Helpless” and “Burn” were not as strong as they could have been. The songs felt uninspired, with her voice not quite together with the other performers, which seemed to be even more prevalent in her solo songs.

    However, Isa Briones as Maria Reynolds was spectacular. When she appeared earlier in Act I as Peggy, she was pushed into the background as the focus was more on Angelica and Eliza. Despite this, her voice was most definitely heard but drowned out by her fellow sisters. The second act is where she shined, with angelic vocals and an attention-stealing performance on her part.

     “Hamilton’s” comedy aspect proved as a hit. The way the actors got in little jokes here and there left the whole theater laughing many times. Without spoiling anything specifically, one character, in particular, kept the audience laughing every time he appeared on the stage: Peter Smith as King George. The first time he sauntered out onto the stage, swinging his arms, a good portion of the audience smiled immediately.

    “Hamilton” was a splendid show with a diverse cast and soundtrack. This show is perfect for anyone who loves musicals and has been my favorite I have ever seen by far.

     “Hamilton” is playing at Pittsburgh’s Benedum Center from Jan. 1 to  27. The Warrior gives this show a 9.5/10, and would highly recommend attending.