“The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.” -Proverbs 18:15
One of the most successful Broadway musicals of modern times is Hamilton. Arriving on Broadway in 2015, this musical took the world by storm. Within just a few short years, Hamilton collected a trophy case full of awards, including the Tony Award for Best Musical, Best Book, Best Original Score, the Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album, and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. It continues to be a successful musical with multiple touring casts and performance locations all over the world.
Hamilton was written by Lin-Manual Miranda. It was not his first musical to write. Miranda first wrote In the Heights. That show also won several Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Shortly after In the Heights arrived on Broadway, Miranda began work on Hamilton. It happened as Lin-Manuel Miranda took some much-needed time away. Before leaving on vacation, Miranda stopped off at a bookstore. He decided to purchase Ron Chernow’s biography, Alexander Hamilton. He read the book several times. Miranda found inspiration in learning about one of our founding fathers.
Lin-Manuel Miranda loved the spirit of Alexander Hamilton and began to work on bringing the story to life in music. Hamilton uses rap and traditional Broadway dance and song to tell this moving story. Miranda describes the musical as “American then, described by American now.”
The success of Hamilton is unparalleled. It continues to play in theaters around the world. The play’s success first comes to life because Lin Manuel-Miranda read a book. I don’t believe he read Ron Chernow’s book, knowing it would become a success, but as he read, the inspiration for the show came to life.
Books are filled with knowledge, stories, wisdom, and inspiration. When we read, new worlds are open to us. When was the last time you read a book? Lin-Manual Miranda’s story reminds us that when we read and learn, we may find inspiration to do our next big thing.
Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
