The much-anticipated production of HAMILTON (book, music, and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda) at the Eccles Theater in Salt Lake City proved to be a remarkable experience. I was thoroughly impressed with the caliber of every performer including the understudies playing Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr portrayed by their understudies. Against the backdrop of an beautiful and historically rich set, the cast delivered a compelling and above the bar performance of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s magnum opus, infusing the musical with fresh energy and individual flair.

Taking on the formidable role of Alexander Hamilton was understudy Alex Nicholson, whose performance was nothing short of extraordinary. Nicholson captured Hamilton’s relentless ambition and passionate idealism with a nuanced portrayal that revealed both vulnerability and determination. His delivery of “My Shot” and “The Room Where It Happens” captivated the audience, showcasing not just his vocal prowess but also his ability to channel the inner complexities of Hamilton’s character.

Josh Marin, stepping in for Aaron Burr, brought a distinct and memorable interpretation to the role. Burr’s character, often marked by a composed exterior masking deep-seated ambition, was delivered with such finely-tuned subtlety by Marin that it felt almost like rediscovering the character anew. His renditions of “The Room Where It Happens” and “Wait for It” wielded a palpable emotional weight, making his Burr a character of enduring empathy and complexity.

Eliza Schuyler, portrayed by leading actress Kendyl Sayuri Yokoyama, was the emotional heartbeat of the production. Yokoyama’s angelic voice breathed life into Eliza’s journey from a young woman in love to Hamilton’s grieving widow who dedicates her life to preserving his legacy. Her performance of “Burn” had the audience enraptured, and her scenes exuded a poignant grace that left a lasting impression.

Angelica Schuyler, brought to life by Lencia Kebede, was a force of nature. Kebede’s commanding presence and vocal agility shone in “Satisfied,” where she masterfully conveyed Angelica’s internal conflict and profound love for her sister. Her chemistry with both Hamilton and Eliza added a rich layer to the complicated dynamics of the Schuyler family and friends.

As George Washington, Kameron Richardson’s authoritative yet compassionate portrayal imbued the character with the gravitas befitting the first President of the United States. Richardson’s powerful voice and dignified stage presence lent credibility to Washington’s mentorship of Hamilton, particularly in numbers like “Right Hand Man” and “One Last Time.”

The supporting cast, including Simon Longnight as Marquis de Lafayette/Thomas Jefferson and Milika Cheree as Peggy Schuyler/Maria Reynolds, provided stellar performances that were integral to the narrative’s vibrancy. Each brought their unique touch to their roles, enhancing the show’s intricate tapestry of interwoven stories.

The sets of HAMILTON at the Eccles Theater were a visual delight, seamlessly transitioning from scenes of bustling street life to the intimate settings of private chambers. The multi-level stage offered depth and dimension, allowing the ensemble to create dynamic and visually engaging scenes. The rotating stage mechanism was particularly effective in illustrating the passage of time and the chaotic energy of the War. The costumes, designed with meticulous historical accuracy and a touch of modern sensibility, were another highlight of the production. Each ensemble encapsulated the character’s essence while contributing to the overall aesthetic cohesion of the show.

The music of HAMILTON , was delivered with the awe and precision that fans have come to expect. The live orchestra, placed with acoustic mastery, complemented the vocal performances beautifully, ensuring that every beat resonated throughout the theater.

HAMILTON at the Eccles Theater was a mesmerizing spectacle of talent and storytelling. Despite the key roles being played by understudies, the performance never lost its momentum or emotional impact. With an outstanding ensemble cast, meticulously crafted sets and costumes, and an unforgettable score, the production offered an evening of historical and theatrical brilliance that will be remembered by the Salt Lake City audience for years to come.

For tickets call ArtTix at 801.355.ARTS (2787) or visit www.artsaltlake.org.

*Sponsored Content: I was provided complimentary tickets for the purpose of this review, however, all opinions are my own.