The Original Hamilton Cast: A Revolutionary Ensemble

Have you ever wondered who were the talented individuals that brought the revolutionary story of "Hamilton" to life on stage? The original cast of "Hamilton" not only captivated audiences with their incredible performances but also set a new standard for Broadway productions. Their dynamic portrayals and groundbreaking interpretations of historical figures left an indelible mark on the world of musical theater. From the stirring lyrics to the mesmerizing choreography, this ensemble of gifted actors transformed the way we experience history through art. Their performances were not just entertainment; they were a cultural phenomenon.

The original cast of "Hamilton" played a pivotal role in the musical's meteoric rise to success. Each member of the cast brought their unique talents and perspectives, contributing to the show's rich tapestry of storytelling. Their dedication and passion for the project were evident in every performance, making "Hamilton" a must-see production that resonated with audiences worldwide. This article delves into the lives and careers of these remarkable performers, exploring how they came together to create one of the most celebrated musicals of our time.

As we explore the original cast of "Hamilton," we will uncover the diverse backgrounds and experiences that each member brought to the stage. From their early beginnings to their breakthrough moments in "Hamilton," this article provides an in-depth examination of the ensemble that changed Broadway forever. Join us as we celebrate the talents, achievements, and enduring legacy of the original "Hamilton" cast.

Table of Contents

• Biography of the Original Hamilton Cast
• Lin-Manuel Miranda: The Visionary Behind Hamilton
• Leslie Odom Jr.: A Star is Born
• Philippa Soo: Bringing Eliza to Life
• Daveed Diggs: A Dynamic Performer
• Renée Elise Goldsberry: Angelica's Voice
• Christopher Jackson: Washington's Right-Hand Man
• Jonathan Groff: A Royal Performance
• Anthony Ramos: The Dual Role Prodigy
• Okieriete Onaodowan: Dual Roles, Dual Talents
• Jasmine Cephas Jones: The Schuyler Sister with Two Voices
• The Legacy of the Original Hamilton Cast
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Biography of the Original Hamilton Cast

The original cast of "Hamilton" was composed of a diverse group of exceptionally talented artists who brought the founding era of America to life in a way that had never been seen before on Broadway. This ensemble was handpicked not only for their vocal and acting abilities but also for their capacity to connect with the characters and story on a personal level. Understanding the backgrounds and journeys of these performers provides a deeper insight into how they were able to transform Lin-Manuel Miranda's vision into a living, breathing masterpiece.

Below is a table offering a snapshot of the key figures from the original cast and their roles:

Lin-Manuel Miranda: The Visionary Behind Hamilton

Lin-Manuel Miranda is not only the creator and composer of "Hamilton," but he also portrayed the titular character, Alexander Hamilton, in the original Broadway production. His journey to Broadway stardom began in the vibrant neighborhood of Washington Heights, New York City, where he was born on January 16, 1980. Miranda's passion for storytelling and music was evident from an early age, and he pursued his creative interests with unwavering dedication.

Miranda attended Wesleyan University, where he began to hone his skills as a playwright and composer. It was here that he wrote the first draft of his musical "In the Heights," which would later earn him his first Tony Award. This success was a stepping stone that propelled Miranda into the spotlight and set the stage for his next groundbreaking project: "Hamilton."

The inspiration for "Hamilton" struck Miranda while he was on vacation in Mexico. After reading Ron Chernow's biography of Alexander Hamilton, he became fascinated by the story of this immigrant founding father who rose to prominence through sheer intellect and determination. Miranda saw parallels between Hamilton's life and his own, particularly in the themes of ambition, resilience, and the immigrant experience.

With "Hamilton," Miranda aimed to create a musical that would resonate with contemporary audiences by blending hip-hop, R&B, and traditional show tunes. This innovative approach not only captured the essence of Hamilton's story but also redefined the possibilities of musical theater. Miranda's portrayal of Alexander Hamilton was both charismatic and vulnerable, bringing a nuanced depth to the character that captivated audiences night after night.

Lin-Manuel Miranda's contributions to "Hamilton" extend beyond his performance. He meticulously crafted the lyrics and music, ensuring that every word and note served the narrative and character development. His dedication to authenticity and historical accuracy was evident in the extensive research he conducted, which included consulting with historians and visiting historical sites.

Miranda's impact on Broadway and popular culture is immeasurable. "Hamilton" not only became a critical and commercial success but also sparked important conversations about representation and diversity in theater. Through his work, Miranda has inspired a new generation of artists to push the boundaries of storytelling and embrace their unique voices.

Leslie Odom Jr.: A Star is Born

Leslie Odom Jr.'s portrayal of Aaron Burr in "Hamilton" earned him widespread acclaim and a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical. Born on August 6, 1981, in Queens, New York, Odom's journey to Broadway success was marked by perseverance and a deep love for the performing arts.

Odom's passion for theater was ignited at a young age, and he pursued his dreams with determination. He attended Carnegie Mellon University, where he honed his craft and developed a strong foundation in acting and singing. After graduating, Odom moved to Los Angeles to pursue opportunities in film and television, but his heart remained with the stage.

When Odom was cast as Aaron Burr in "Hamilton," he brought a unique perspective to the role. Burr, often portrayed as a villain in history, was given depth and complexity through Odom's performance. His portrayal captured Burr's ambition, jealousy, and internal struggle, making the character relatable and sympathetic.

Odom's rendition of "The Room Where It Happens" became one of the show's standout moments, showcasing his vocal prowess and stage presence. The song, which explores Burr's desire for power and influence, resonated with audiences and became an anthem for those striving to achieve their goals.

Beyond his work in "Hamilton," Odom has established himself as a versatile performer with a diverse body of work. He has appeared in film and television projects, released solo albums, and performed in concerts around the world. His success is a testament to his talent and dedication to his craft.

Leslie Odom Jr.'s portrayal of Aaron Burr in "Hamilton" not only solidified his place in Broadway history but also set the stage for a promising career that continues to evolve. His contributions to the musical theater landscape serve as an inspiration to aspiring performers and a reminder of the transformative power of art.

Philippa Soo: Bringing Eliza to Life

Philippa Soo's portrayal of Eliza Hamilton in "Hamilton" was both poignant and powerful, earning her critical acclaim and a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Musical. Born on May 31, 1990, in Libertyville, Illinois, Soo's journey to Broadway success was driven by her passion for storytelling and a deep connection to her character.

Soo's love for the arts was cultivated from a young age, and she pursued her dreams with determination. She attended The Juilliard School, where she honed her craft and developed a strong foundation in acting and singing. After graduating, Soo quickly made a name for herself in the theater community, landing roles in off-Broadway productions and regional theater.

When Soo was cast as Eliza Hamilton in "Hamilton," she brought a unique perspective to the role. Eliza, often overshadowed by her husband Alexander, was given depth and agency through Soo's performance. Her portrayal captured Eliza's resilience, strength, and unwavering love for her family, making the character relatable and inspiring.

Soo's rendition of "Burn," a powerful ballad that explores Eliza's heartbreak and betrayal, became one of the show's standout moments. Her emotional delivery and vocal prowess resonated with audiences, leaving a lasting impression long after the curtain fell.

Beyond her work in "Hamilton," Soo has continued to establish herself as a versatile performer with a diverse body of work. She has appeared in film and television projects, performed in concerts around the world, and continued to take on challenging roles in theater. Her success is a testament to her talent and dedication to her craft.

Philippa Soo's portrayal of Eliza Hamilton in "Hamilton" not only solidified her place in Broadway history but also set the stage for a promising career that continues to evolve. Her contributions to the musical theater landscape serve as an inspiration to aspiring performers and a reminder of the transformative power of art.

Daveed Diggs: A Dynamic Performer

Daveed Diggs's portrayal of both Marquis de Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson in "Hamilton" was a tour de force that earned him a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical. Born on January 24, 1982, in Oakland, California, Diggs's journey to Broadway success was marked by his versatility and unique approach to performance.

Diggs's passion for the arts was evident from an early age, and he pursued his creative interests with enthusiasm. He attended Brown University, where he studied theater and honed his skills as a performer. After graduating, Diggs immersed himself in the world of experimental theater and music, becoming a member of the avant-garde hip-hop group Clipping.

When Diggs was cast in the dual roles of Marquis de Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson in "Hamilton," he brought a fresh and dynamic energy to the stage. His portrayal of Lafayette was characterized by a playful exuberance and linguistic agility, while his performance as Jefferson was marked by charisma and wit.

Diggs's ability to seamlessly switch between the two characters was a testament to his skill as an actor and his understanding of the material. His performances in "Guns and Ships" and "What'd I Miss" became highlights of the show, showcasing his rapid-fire rapping and magnetic stage presence.

Beyond his work in "Hamilton," Diggs has continued to build a successful career in both theater and film. He has appeared in a variety of film and television projects, released solo music, and continued to collaborate with Clipping. His success is a testament to his talent and dedication to his craft.

Daveed Diggs's portrayal of Marquis de Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson in "Hamilton" not only solidified his place in Broadway history but also set the stage for a promising career that continues to evolve. His contributions to the musical theater landscape serve as an inspiration to aspiring performers and a reminder of the transformative power of art.

Renée Elise Goldsberry: Angelica's Voice

Renée Elise Goldsberry's portrayal of Angelica Schuyler in "Hamilton" was both captivating and commanding, earning her a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical. Born on January 2, 1971, in San Jose, California, Goldsberry's journey to Broadway success was driven by her passion for storytelling and a deep connection to her character.

Goldsberry's love for the arts was cultivated from a young age, and she pursued her dreams with determination. She attended Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Southern California, where she honed her craft and developed a strong foundation in acting and singing. After graduating, Goldsberry quickly made a name for herself in the theater community, landing roles in Broadway productions and television.

When Goldsberry was cast as Angelica Schuyler in "Hamilton," she brought a unique perspective to the role. Angelica, a sharp-witted and independent woman, was given depth and nuance through Goldsberry's performance. Her portrayal captured Angelica's intellect, wit, and unwavering loyalty to her family, making the character both relatable and inspiring.

Goldsberry's rendition of "Satisfied," a powerful song that explores Angelica's internal conflict and sacrifice, became one of the show's standout moments. Her emotional delivery and vocal prowess resonated with audiences, leaving a lasting impression long after the curtain fell.

Beyond her work in "Hamilton," Goldsberry has continued to establish herself as a versatile performer with a diverse body of work. She has appeared in film and television projects, performed in concerts around the world, and continued to take on challenging roles in theater. Her success is a testament to her talent and dedication to her craft.

Renée Elise Goldsberry's portrayal of Angelica Schuyler in "Hamilton" not only solidified her place in Broadway history but also set the stage for a promising career that continues to evolve. Her contributions to the musical theater landscape serve as an inspiration to aspiring performers and a reminder of the transformative power of art.

Christopher Jackson: Washington's Right-Hand Man

Christopher Jackson's portrayal of George Washington in "Hamilton" was both authoritative and empathetic, earning him critical acclaim and a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Musical. Born on September 30, 1975, in Metropolis, Illinois, Jackson's journey to Broadway success was marked by his dedication and passion for the performing arts.

Jackson's love for theater was evident from an early age, and he pursued his dreams with determination. He attended the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York, where he honed his craft and developed a strong foundation in acting and singing. After graduating, Jackson quickly made a name for himself in the theater community, landing roles in Broadway productions and television.

When Jackson was cast as George Washington in "Hamilton," he brought a unique perspective to the role. Washington, often portrayed as a larger-than-life figure, was given depth and humanity through Jackson's performance. His portrayal captured Washington's strength, wisdom, and vulnerability, making the character relatable and inspiring.

Jackson's rendition of "One Last Time," a poignant song that explores Washington's decision to step down from the presidency, became one of the show's standout moments. His emotional delivery and vocal prowess resonated with audiences, leaving a lasting impression long after the curtain fell.

Beyond his work in "Hamilton," Jackson has continued to establish himself as a versatile performer with a diverse body of work. He has appeared in film and television projects, performed in concerts around the world, and continued to take on challenging roles in theater. His success is a testament to his talent and dedication to his craft.

Christopher Jackson's portrayal of George Washington in "Hamilton" not only solidified his place in Broadway history but also set the stage for a promising career that continues to evolve. His contributions to the musical theater landscape serve as an inspiration to aspiring performers and a reminder of the transformative power of art.

Jonathan Groff: A Royal Performance

Jonathan Groff's portrayal of King George III in "Hamilton" was both comedic and commanding, earning him critical acclaim and a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Musical. Born on March 26, 1985, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Groff's journey to Broadway success was driven by his passion for storytelling and a deep connection to his character.

Groff's love for the arts was cultivated from a young age, and he pursued his dreams with determination. He attended Conestoga Valley High School, where he honed his craft and developed a strong foundation in acting and singing. After graduating, Groff quickly made a name for himself in the theater community, landing roles in Broadway productions and television.

When Groff was cast as King George III in "Hamilton," he brought a unique perspective to the role. King George, often portrayed as a villain in history, was given depth and complexity through Groff's performance. His portrayal captured King George's arrogance, humor, and vulnerability, making the character both relatable and entertaining.

Groff's rendition of "You'll Be Back," a comedic song that explores King George's relationship with America, became one of the show's standout moments. His charismatic delivery and vocal prowess resonated with audiences, leaving a lasting impression long after the curtain fell.

Beyond his work in "Hamilton," Groff has continued to establish himself as a versatile performer with a diverse body of work. He has appeared in film and television projects, performed in concerts around the world, and continued to take on challenging roles in theater. His success is a testament to his talent and dedication to his craft.

Jonathan Groff's portrayal of King George III in "Hamilton" not only solidified his place in Broadway history but also set the stage for a promising career that continues to evolve. His contributions to the musical theater landscape serve as an inspiration to aspiring performers and a reminder of the transformative power of art.

Anthony Ramos: The Dual Role Prodigy

Anthony Ramos's portrayal of both John Laurens and Philip Hamilton in "Hamilton" was a testament to his versatility and talent, earning him critical acclaim and a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Musical. Born on November 1, 1991, in Brooklyn, New York, Ramos's journey to Broadway success was driven by his passion for storytelling and a deep connection to his characters.

Ramos's love for the arts was cultivated from a young age, and he pursued his dreams with determination. He attended the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York, where he honed his craft and developed a strong foundation in acting and singing. After graduating, Ramos quickly made a name for himself in the theater community, landing roles in Broadway productions and television.

When Ramos was cast in the dual roles of John Laurens and Philip Hamilton in "Hamilton," he brought a unique perspective to the stage. His portrayal of Laurens, a passionate abolitionist and soldier, captured the character's courage and conviction. Meanwhile, his performance as Philip, Hamilton's spirited and ambitious son, was marked by youthful exuberance and vulnerability.

Ramos's ability to seamlessly switch between the two characters was a testament to his skill as an actor and his understanding of the material. His performances in "The Story of Tonight" and "Blow Us All Away" became highlights of the show, showcasing his emotional depth and dynamic stage presence.

Beyond his work in "Hamilton," Ramos has continued to build a successful career in both theater and film. He has appeared in a variety of film and television projects, released solo music, and continued to take on challenging roles in theater. His success is a testament to his talent and dedication to his craft.

Anthony Ramos's portrayal of John Laurens and Philip Hamilton in "Hamilton" not only solidified his place in Broadway history but also set the stage for a promising career that continues to evolve. His contributions to the musical theater landscape serve as an inspiration to aspiring performers and a reminder of the transformative power of art.

Okieriete Onaodowan: Dual Roles, Dual Talents

Okieriete Onaodowan's portrayal of both Hercules Mulligan and James Madison in "Hamilton" was a testament to his versatility and talent, earning him critical acclaim and a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Musical. Born on August 16, 1987, in Newark, New Jersey, Onaodowan's journey to Broadway success was driven by his passion for storytelling and a deep connection to his characters.

Onaodowan's love for the arts was cultivated from a young age, and he pursued his dreams with determination. He attended Rutgers University, where he honed his craft and developed a strong foundation in acting and singing. After graduating, Onaodowan quickly made a name for himself in the theater community, landing roles in Broadway productions and television.

When Onaodowan was cast in the dual roles of Hercules Mulligan and James Madison in "Hamilton," he brought a unique perspective to the stage. His portrayal of Mulligan, a daring and resourceful spy, captured the character's bravery and wit. Meanwhile, his performance as Madison, a reserved and strategic statesman, was marked by intelligence and poise.

Onaodowan's ability to seamlessly switch between the two characters was a testament to his skill as an actor and his understanding of the material. His performances in "Yorktown (The World Turned Upside Down)" and "Washington on Your Side" became highlights of the show, showcasing his powerful stage presence and emotional depth.

Beyond his work in "Hamilton," Onaodowan has continued to build a successful career in both theater and film. He has appeared in a variety of film and television projects, performed in concerts around the world, and continued to take on challenging roles in theater. His success is a testament to his talent and dedication to his craft.

Okieriete Onaodowan's portrayal of Hercules Mulligan and James Madison in "Hamilton" not only solidified his place in Broadway history but also set the stage for a promising career that continues to evolve. His contributions to the musical theater landscape serve as an inspiration to aspiring performers and a reminder of the transformative power of art.

Jasmine Cephas Jones: The Schuyler Sister with Two Voices

Jasmine Cephas Jones's portrayal of both Peggy Schuyler and Maria Reynolds in "Hamilton" was a testament to her versatility and talent, earning her critical acclaim and a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Musical. Born on July 21, 1989, in New York City, Jones's journey to Broadway success was driven by her passion for storytelling and a deep connection to her characters.

Jones's love for the arts was cultivated from a young age, and she pursued her dreams with determination. She attended the Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts and the Berklee College of Music, where she honed her craft and developed a strong foundation in acting and singing. After graduating, Jones quickly made a name for herself in the theater community, landing roles in Broadway productions and television.

When Jones was cast in the dual roles of Peggy Schuyler and Maria Reynolds in "Hamilton," she brought a unique perspective to the stage. Her portrayal of Peggy, the youngest and most innocent of the Schuyler sisters, captured the character's playfulness and warmth. Meanwhile, her performance as Maria, a woman caught in a scandalous affair, was marked by complexity and vulnerability.

Jones's ability to seamlessly switch between the two characters was a testament to her skill as an actor and her understanding of the material. Her performances in "The Schuyler Sisters" and "Say No to This" became highlights of the show, showcasing her vocal prowess and emotional depth.

Beyond her work in "Hamilton," Jones has continued to build a successful career in both theater and film. She has appeared in a variety of film and television projects, released solo music, and continued to take on challenging roles in theater. Her success is a testament to her talent and dedication to her craft.

Jasmine Cephas Jones's portrayal of Peggy Schuyler and Maria Reynolds in "Hamilton" not only solidified her place in Broadway history but also set the stage for a promising career that continues to evolve. Her contributions to the musical theater landscape serve as an inspiration to aspiring performers and a reminder of the transformative power of art.

The Legacy of the Original Hamilton Cast

The original cast of "Hamilton" has left an indelible legacy on the world of musical theater. Their groundbreaking performances not only captivated audiences but also redefined the possibilities of storytelling on stage. Through their dedication and talent, the cast brought Lin-Manuel Miranda's vision to life, creating a cultural phenomenon that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.

The impact of the original "Hamilton" cast extends far beyond the confines of the theater. Their performances sparked important conversations about representation and diversity in the arts, inspiring a new generation of artists to embrace their unique voices and perspectives. The cast's success also paved the way for future productions to explore innovative approaches to storytelling, blending different genres and styles to create compelling narratives.

The legacy of the original "Hamilton" cast is also evident in the continued success of the show. "Hamilton" has become a cultural touchstone, with productions running in cities around the world and a dedicated fanbase that spans generations. The show's themes of ambition, resilience, and the immigrant experience continue to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless and relevant work of art.

As the original cast members continue to pursue their individual careers, their contributions to the musical theater landscape serve as a testament to the transformative power of art. Their work in "Hamilton" not only solidified their place in Broadway history but also set the stage for a promising future that continues to evolve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the original cast of "Hamilton":

1. Who were the main actors in the original "Hamilton" cast?

The main actors in the original "Hamilton" cast included Lin-Manuel Miranda as Alexander Hamilton, Leslie Odom Jr. as Aaron Burr, Philippa Soo as Eliza Hamilton, Daveed Diggs as Marquis de Lafayette/Thomas Jefferson, Renée Elise Goldsberry as Angelica Schuyler, Christopher Jackson as George Washington, Jonathan Groff as King George III, Anthony Ramos as John Laurens/Philip Hamilton, Okieriete Onaodowan as Hercules Mulligan/James Madison, and Jasmine Cephas Jones as Peggy Schuyler/Maria Reynolds.

2. When did the original "Hamilton" cast perform on Broadway?

The original "Hamilton" cast performed on Broadway from its opening on July 13, 2015, at the Richard Rodgers Theatre until many of the original cast members began departing the show in July 2016.

3. Did the original "Hamilton" cast win any awards?

Yes, the original "Hamilton" cast won numerous awards, including several Tony Awards. Notably, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Leslie Odom Jr., Daveed Diggs, and Renée Elise Goldsberry all received Tony Awards for their performances.

4. What were some of the standout songs performed by the original "Hamilton" cast?

Some standout songs performed by the original "Hamilton" cast include "Alexander Hamilton," "My Shot," "The Room Where It Happens," "Satisfied," "You'll Be Back," and "One Last Time."

5. Where are the original "Hamilton" cast members now?

Many of the original "Hamilton" cast members have continued to pursue successful careers in theater, film, television, and music. Lin-Manuel Miranda, for example, has continued to work on various creative projects, while Leslie Odom Jr., Daveed Diggs, and others have appeared in films, released music, and taken on new roles in theater and television.

6. How has the original "Hamilton" cast impacted the musical theater industry?

The original "Hamilton" cast has had a profound impact on the musical theater industry, setting a new standard for storytelling and representation on stage. Their performances and the success of "Hamilton" have inspired a new generation of artists and opened doors for more diverse and innovative productions in the future.

Conclusion

The original cast of "Hamilton" was a revolutionary ensemble that transformed Broadway and captivated audiences worldwide. Through their exceptional talent and dedication, they brought Lin-Manuel Miranda's vision to life, creating a cultural phenomenon that continues to resonate. Each member of the cast brought their unique perspective and skills to the stage, contributing to the rich tapestry of storytelling that made "Hamilton" a must-see production.

The legacy of the original "Hamilton" cast extends beyond the theater, inspiring a new generation of artists to embrace their voices and push the boundaries of storytelling. Their contributions to the musical theater landscape serve as a testament to the transformative power of art and the enduring impact of "Hamilton" as a cultural touchstone.

As we reflect on the achievements of the original "Hamilton" cast, we celebrate their talents, achievements, and enduring legacy. Their work in "Hamilton" not only solidified their place in Broadway history but also set the stage for a promising future that continues to evolve. The original cast of "Hamilton" will forever be remembered as a groundbreaking ensemble that changed the face of musical theater and left an indelible mark on the world.

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