Ten Years On, 'Hamilton' Stands as a Cultural Mirror and Caution

On the tenth anniversary of its Broadway premiere, the musical 'Hamilton' remains a landmark production whose journey reflects shifting political and cultural landscapes. Initially embraced across the political spectrum, the show has since become enmeshed in contemporary partisan tensions.

During Barack Obama’s presidency, 'Hamilton' enjoyed significant attention, with Lin-Manuel Miranda performing the opening number at the White House. The show's creative approach was partly inspired by a musical rendition of Obama’s 'Yes We Can' speech, crafted by will.i.am. Yet, its appeal was not confined to liberal audiences. Prominent figures from across the political divide, including Lynne and Dick Cheney as well as Hillary Clinton, praised the production. The 2016 documentary about the musical featured endorsements from diverse politicians such as Paul Ryan, George W. Bush, Elizabeth Warren, and President Obama.

Miranda has reflected on the show's broad resonance, explaining that different viewers could find their own meaning within it. Conservatives might appreciate the portrayal of George Washington, despite political differences, while others on the left could celebrate the representation of people of color telling the story of slaveholding founders.

However, the show’s nonpartisan image was challenged in 2016 after Vice President-elect Mike Pence attended a performance. The cast addressed him directly afterward, hoping the musical would inspire him to uphold shared American values. The following day, the then-president-elect criticized the cast publicly, calling them 'very rude,' which led to threats from supporters and necessitated enhanced security measures.

Miranda has spoken about how political attacks shifted public perception, saying that false claims turned 'Hamilton' into a 'left show,' a label he disputes, emphasizing that the production itself does not express his personal politics.

Over the past decade, the musical has drawn significant journalistic attention, from its London debut post-Brexit and early Trump administration to related exhibitions in Chicago that explore historical context absent from the show. Additionally, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s return to the lead role in Puerto Rico for a benefit performance highlighted the musical’s ongoing cultural and humanitarian relevance.