What Did I (Maybe) Miss? Hamilton is now in Hamburg!
On September 30, the Stage Operetten Haus hosted a preview of the American hit musical Hamilton, allowing us to experience it live in Hamburg. The German version, freshly translated, captivated the audience with its phenomenal performers, costumes, and performances.
The musical chronicles the life of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton—from his childhood in the Caribbean to his career and eventual rise and fall in American society and politics during the American Revolution and the early days of the nation.
Hamilton impresses with many elements: choreography, costumes, and of course, the vocal performances, such as those by Benét Monteiro as Alexander Hamilton and Chasity Crisps as Angelica Schuyler. Particularly noteworthy is how the musical blends traditional show tunes with influences from hip-hop, contemporary RnB, jazz, and ’90s pop music, leading to fast-paced and often energetic moments. In addition to enjoying excellent live performances, the audience learns about significant milestones in American history, including the Revolutionary War and the establishment of institutions and systems. Songs like “The Election of 1800” highlight domestic political rivalries that strikingly resemble modern political campaigns and debates.
The many elements integrated into the production reflect an unmatched attention to detail, such as the personified shot and Eliza Hamilton burning Alexander’s letters to remove herself from the historical narrative. These symbolic nuances invite audiences to see the musical more than once, discovering new details and appreciating the complexity of the show.
Before seeing the German version, we wondered if it was possible to translate Hamilton in a way that maintained both the linguistic brilliance and the tempo and entertainment value of the original. The answer is a resounding YES! The German version works remarkably well. While it is not always a direct translation (which has never been a hallmark of a good translation in general), Kevin Schröder, rapper Sera Finale, and their team managed to capture the essence of the original musical and adapt it to the German cultural context, incorporating idioms and German pop culture.
Since its premiere in 2015, the story of Founding Father Hamilton has fascinated audiences. The musical, which has captivated thousands of visitors in New York, now sings of Alexander Hamilton in Hamburg. This musical showcases the interest in American history and culture, which we wholeheartedly support and celebrate as a center of enthusiasm.
