
The Brian Lehrer Show Ten Years of Hamilton on Broadway
Nov 24, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Frank DiLella, Spectrum News NY1 theater correspondent and host of On Stage, dives into the dynamic world of Hamilton on its tenth anniversary. He reveals how Lin-Manuel Miranda conceived the groundbreaking musical from Ron Chernow's biography, influenced by contemporary sounds and the legacy of Jonathan Larson. DiLella discusses the show's diverse casting and its powerful role in attracting new audiences to Broadway. Plus, he shares insights on historical critiques and local New York landmarks connected to Hamilton's story.
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Hamilton Began As A Vacation Concept Album
- Lin-Manuel Miranda began Hamilton as a vacation discovery after reading Ron Chernow's biography of Alexander Hamilton.
- He originally planned it as a concept album inspired by Jesus Christ Superstar and Evita, not an immediate stage production.
Musical Theater Should Converse With Today
- Miranda views musical theater as an art form that should reflect contemporary music and the wider world.
- He consciously writes scores that converse with what people listen to now, carrying Jonathan Larson's banner for contemporary theater.
Diverse Casting Reframes A Historical Story
- Casting Hamilton with a diverse ensemble reframed a story about white founding fathers to reflect modern America.
- The show's hip-hop and rap influences attracted contemporary artists and new audiences to musical theater.



