Many fans of the Broadway musical “Hamilton, an American Musical” were looking forward to catching the show as it toured around the country to various cities. Sadly, the Coronavirus pandemic postponed the tour. The creator of the musical and star of the original Broadway production, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Disney Executive Chairman Robert Iger just announced that fans will be able to stream a filmed version of the show this July. This show, featuring a performance of the original cast and the voices of the singers that fans would know from the album, was originally slated to air in October of next year. Since many people may have to fulfill stay at home orders during Independence Day weekend, “Hamilton” will now stream on Disney+ on July 3rd.
The decision to move the release date
Many shows have been released earlier than originally planned because of the pandemic. This includes the Michael Jordan docuseries “The Last Dance” and even some family movies, like “Trolls 2: World Tour”. The latter debuted on streaming platforms instead of enjoying a theatrical release. The powers-that-be in charge of “Hamilton”, which won 11 Tony Awards in 2016, hope that this will allow viewers who either couldn’t travel to Broadway, or couldn’t afford the $500 tickets to see it. People still rave about the show that featured the original cast. On Broadway alone, 2.6 million people saw the show since it debuted in 2015 until earlier this year.
You won’t have to “Wait for it” too long
Multiple sources comprise the movie version of “Hamilton”. There are shots of three different live performances and a few scenes that filmed with no audience in attendance. Director Tommy Kail helmed both the original stage show and this filmed one. Cast members include Miranda, Daveed Digs, Leslie Odom, Jr., Phillipa Soo, and many more.
Touring dates still uncertain
With theaters still closed, fans of “Hamilton” may have to wait until next year to see the show. Some theaters have already rescheduled cancelled tour dates for later this year. However, some reports suggest that health officials may recommend against gathering in theaters until sometime next year. Disney admits that the early release of “Hamilton” is to make up for shortfalls the company is experiencing. This is the result of its theme parks and film productions being shut down.
“History has its eyes on you”
For those who wonder how the story in “Hamilton” the musical measures up with real-life events, this could be a great history teaching opportunity. Countless articles exist about the differences between the reality and fiction of “The 10-dollar founding father”. Several podcasts analyze both the show and the historical events it is based upon. The “Hamilton” film producers may have intended this, especially with a release date over an important American holiday.
If you do not currently subscribe to Disney+, you can go to disneyplus.com to view subscription options. “Hamilton” will stream on Disney+ on July 3rd, presumably available as the clock strikes midnight, as with many releases on streaming services.
