Covid-19 (Coronavirus) has put a damper on so many things in 2020 and while I understand the reasons we must continue to wear masks, observe social distance orders and hand wash responsibilities, I have been missing the sights and sounds of Broadway. I am a huge fan of the Arts and Broadway NYC and/or Broadway Philadelphia has scratched that itch for years. Watching show after show with my family has created some truly great memories. The Hamilton Musical was one show that we were never able to view as a family. Either the tickets were sold out or Sport responsibilities to precedence.
Disney announced in February that it had purchased an original recording of the highly acclaimed Broadway musical and everyone crossed their fingers with anticipation of the release date. I never thought that five years after it's New York City premiere that I would be able to enjoy it in my pajamas and favorite slippers.
Related: Hamilton Returns to Philadelphia
The July 3rd release date is timely as it coincides with the country's Independence Day. This year the 4th of July holds a different meaning as the Black community has decided that it will not celebrate traditionally but honor the history of Juneteenth.. As we continue to protest the murder of George Floyd, Elijah McCain and Breonna Taylor amongst others, we are reminded that this Independence Date holds no significance. Black people were not free on July 4, 1776.
The Disney+ Hamilton musical features the original cast which is probably one of the diverse of any Broadway show not based on a Black or minority character. Casting Black actors in the roles of white Founding Fathers adds a twist and once you had the musical score with a mixture of hip hop, R&B and jazz its no wonder that people were excited about the release date.
You can't help but wonder what the actors felt as they played these roles where most were slave owners or had participated in the slave trade.
How You Can View the Hamilton Musical?
Unless you have a friend, that loves hosting backyard movie nights complete with popcorn and special drinks, you will have to subscribe to Disney+. Subscriptions start at $6.99 per month or $69.99 for the year. There is also a bundle available with Hulu and ESPN+. Ironically Disney decided to cancel the trial subscription. Do you think they thought people would watch the Hamilton musical and cancel? 🙂 Disney did pay roughly 75 million for the rights to stream it.
What is the Running Time for Hamilton?
The Hamilton musical has a running time of 2 hours and 40 minutes and it's unclear how long it will actually be available for streaming. If you're thinking about watching it, just do it.
What is the Hamilton Musical?
This broadway hit details the unforgotten story about the Founding Father Alexander Hamilton. It is gives details not often discussed in history books. It's a story about the rise from poverty to power during the American War of Independence. Hamilton, the poor orphan, became George Washington's right hand man and is widely known for his role in crafting the US Constitution and creating wealth for the national economy.
It is believed that he did not personally own slaves but his in-laws and associates were implicit and he assisted in various trades. George Washington had dentures made from the teeth of his slaves yet he is presented as a wise, mild mannered man. Lin-Manuel Miranda created it all, the music, lyrics and stared in the production but you can't forget the famous line that was stated while the current Vice President sat in the theatre.
We, sir — we — are the diverse America who are alarmed and anxious that your new administration will not protect us, our planet, our children, our parents, or defend us and uphold our inalienable rights … We truly hope that this show has inspired you to uphold our American values and to work on behalf of all of us.
Who Should Watch Hamilton on Disney+?
Everyone! It is no wonder this play is constantly sold out everywhere. Hamilton has won 11 Tony awards  and the 2016 Pulitzer Prize in Drama. The show is rated PG-13 but it provides more of a historical aspect that many of our current schools. It is a great conversation starter because despite it being based on something that occurred centuries ago, it is reflective of today's divided society.
Support the Actors
We can't forget that while the curtains are drawn on all Broadway shows that there are actors struggling to stay afloat. Here are five ways that we can help.
- Call your senators and demand an extension on the Pandemic Unemployment Compensation
- Donate to the Actors Fund
- Donate to Broadway Cares
- Donate to SAG-AFTRA Covid Disaster Fund
- Wear your mask, wash your hands and practice social distancing
