Hamilton - Philip Tour

[DottieD'Luscia]

Posted: 9/28/22 at 9:50am

I have seen the current Philip tour several times during its run at the Kennedy Center.  This was supposed to be the 2020 stop that was canceled due to the pandemic.  Tickets were much easier to come by this time around in comparison to when it first played here in 2018.  So much so, that a discount code was offered for some Tuesday and Wednesday performances.  That being said, the last 2 weeks of this stop seem to be pretty much sold out.

The first time I saw this company in August, 4 of the male principal roles were played by covers.

My favorite Hamilton's so far have been Marcus John, who made is debut in the role last night, and Kameron Richardson. Marcus in particular was absolutely wonderful in his debut.

Ta'Rea Campbell is a force to be reckoned with as Angelica. She is by far one of my favorites in role.

Nikisha Williams (Eliza) and Jen Sese (Peggy/Maria) joined the company in August, and I enjoyed their performances as well.  I have seen the Broadway, Chicago, Angelica and Philip companies of Hamilton, and the women have always been wonderful.  This includes the standbys/understudies I have seen.  Ashley LaLonde made her tour debut as Angelica last night.  Like Marcus, one would never know it was her first performance.  She gave a very strong and grounded performance as Angelica.

I have seen 3 different Burrs in DC, and Jared Dixon and Kameron Richardson were both excellent.  I love seeing the interpretation of the role depending on who's playing it.  In all the times I have seen this show, Kameron Richardson's rendition of The World Was Wide Enough was the only time I've experienced this particular song receiving applause as it immediately transitions to Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story.

The two different Madison's I have seen, don't play the role as sickly as I've seen in other productions. Not sure if this was a directorial change.

This is a very strong company and the show itself is in excellent shape. I'm in awe of the ensemble. Special shoutout to Nick Sanchez (whom I've seen in several Broadway shows) as James Reynolds.  I really enjoyed him in this role.

The one thing I noticed is the back wall of the set does not grow in Act 2.  I didn't realize this was actually a thing until I saw the Disney+ viewing about the set design.  I observed this when I saw the Broadway production in April.  I take it this portion of the touring set is stationary.

I'm so glad I took advantage of seeing this here, as I'm not sure when I'll be able to see Hamilton again.

Updated On: 9/28/22 at 09:50 AM