In 2008 I received an email about In the Heights, a new hip-hop and latin flavored musical. That was the day I was introduced to the genius of Lin-Manuel Miranda. His ability to turn a phrase in a moment without breaking a sweat is mesmerizing.
In 2009, invited to perform at the white house's Spoken Word & Poetry night, Mr. Miranda blew audiences away (including the president) with first installment of the Hamilton Mixtape. Originally conceived as a hip-hop concept album about the life and legend, Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton. From that day, fans eagerly awaited the next installment of this new project. After admitting it's a musical and not an album, a Lincoln center concert and a reading at Vassar, the Public theater announced the premiere of Hamilton in their 2015 season. Six years of waiting finally came to an end.
Knowing the run would sell out quickly I became a member of the Public theater to ensure access to pre-sale tickets. In May 2014 tickets were officially on sale. So naturally, I bought two tickets for the first preview and one more ticket for a show PLUS a talk back. Next thing I know the show is extended. BEFORE IT EVEN OPENED. Take a minute to process that fact. There is so much excitement and anticipation for Mr. Miranda's show that it was extended MONTHS before the show was fully completed. (that last bit might be an exaggeration but it's one i'm fully comfortable with.)
It wasn't long before the entire run sold out. Once the new year rolled around and tech rehearsals were well under way additional performances were added. Meaning the show was extended AGAIN. Obviously I bought another set of tickets for closing night completely understanding the show may be extending making a new date closing night. Because there is no doubt in my mind of how amazing the show will be I am pretty sure the show will be extended again and picked up to move to broadway. Which basically means, I am buying another ticket ensuring I experience closing night.
Till then, I am counting down to January 21st at 8pm. For it will be in my top 5 NY experiences. Right underneath the In the Heights Reunion concert and above meeting Ranbir Kapoor.
