It’s no secret to anyone who has ever asked me about my favorite musicals that “Hamilton” is right there at the top. I’ve seen it three times, reviewed it once, and each time it’s, well, fantastic. And it’s coming back to Bass Hall for a limited and extended engagement July 15-26. That’s a long run, but that’s because so many folks want to see it – and many, like myself, can’t see it enough. Oh, and thanks to Performing Arts Fort Worth for once again including it in their Broadway at the Bass Series Presented by PNC Bank.
Typically, a show at Bass Hall has a Tuesday through Sunday run. Some have even shorter stints, such as Friday through Sunday – it doesn’t mean they are less of a show, it’s just how the scheduling sometimes works. But, for “Hamilton” as many days as time will allow really is still not enough. If it’s not the most popular show ever to come through Bass Hall, it’s on a very short list. If, by the way, you are still not familiar with “Hamilton,” welcome back to earth and please tell me, how was your more-than-a-decade-long trip into space?
“Hamilton” is the career opus of its creator Lin-Manuel Miranda, who wrote the book, music and lyrics and starred in the title role in the original Broadway version. It is a revolutionary story of passion, unstoppable ambition, and the dawn of a new nation. The epic saga follows the rise of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton as he fights for honor, love, and a legacy that would shape the course of the United States.
Based on Ron Chernow’s acclaimed biography and set to a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B, and Broadway, the show has had a profound impact on culture, politics, and education. It has already qualified for legendary status. This is the third time the show has been to Fort Worth. As you can imagine, the first two were hugely successful. After all, shows don’t return where audiences don’t turn out aplenty. There’s not much profit in that business plan.
Trust me, people will come out. As I said previously, it’s simply an amazing production and, well, it’s sizzling in Fort Worth these days, and what better way to spend a couple hours than getting a history lesson highlighted by some incredible music and performances while sitting in a cool auditorium?
If it sounds like I’m reviewing the show before they even take the stage, so be it. Based on what I’ve seen before I have every confidence they’ll once again be terrific. Tickets for “Hamilton” can be purchased through the only official outlets – online at www.basshall.com/hamilton or by calling 817-212-4280. The Performing Arts Fort Worth Box Office hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For group sales discounts please visit www.basshall.com/groups. There is a maximum purchase limit of nine tickets per account for the engagement.
Oh, be sure to get in on the digital lottery with 40 seats going for $10. Yep, one of the greatest shows ever presented – don’t just take my word, look at the many awards it has won – for less than a hamburger. As my late and wise father would say, “You can’t beat that, no matter how big a stick you have.” However, as noted American theatrical producer Jeffry Sellers – whose work includes “Hamilton” – said, be very careful where you get tickets. Make sure they are official. “It’s tempting to get tickets any way you can. There are many sites and people who are selling overpriced, and in some cases, fraudulent tickets,” he said. Speaking of its many accolades, in addition to its 11 Tony Awards, “Hamilton” has won Grammy, Olivier Awards, the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and an unprecedented special citation from the Kennedy Center Honors. In all transparency, I will, ironically, be on vacation during the show’s run. Believe me, it was a tough choice between some time in the mountains or likely seeing the show twice during such a lengthy run. Oh well, they’ll just have to bring it back for a fourth time.
“Hamilton” at Bass Hall 525 Commerce St., Fort Worth July 15-26 Tickets: www.basshall.com/hamilton, or call 817-212-4280. Patrons can enter a digital lottery online or through the official “Hamilton” app. For more information, visit www.basshall.com/lottery
