Hamilton Trip

In this article, Rakie talks about a recent field trip GPHS students took to see the show Hamilton, highlighting the play's impact on people and the astonishing theatrics.

A trip into our history

By Rakie Jagne

One of the most influential musicals of all time has made its rounds over the country: Hamilton. Millions of people around the US come to see this extraordinary play, made by the one and only Lin Manuel Miranda. The play captures the life of Alexander Hamilton, one of America's founding fathers, and tells his story through hip-hop and dance. Hamilton is a fun and educational way to teach people about America's history through modernizing the narrative, capturing the attention of all ages.

Photo by Rakie Jagne of Hamilton Theater, Eugene OR

Phot by Rakie Jagne of outside Spaghetti Factory

On the weekend of Apr. 5, GPHS Choir and Orchestra students were given the opportunity to see the play live in Eugene, OR. After a long year of working hard, the field trip would involve many rewarding activities, like bowling, shopping, workshops, and lunch at the Old Spaghetti Factory. After all of that, they would be able to see the show. A suitable production for a group of kids who already have some musical background, the life of a founding father combines history with art. Despite what some might think about Hamilton, even the most negative perspectives change when seeing the show live.

The performance starts with an opening act summarizing each character's role in Alexander Hamilton's life, giving the audience plenty to look forward to. Burr, Hamilton’s lifelong frenemy ends the number, shouting, “And me, I'm the damn fool that shot him.” Even though it seems like it is giving away the plot, it actually draws the listeners in. Alex had many mistresses in his life and the play brings out each of those characters as the only women. Characterizing his romance gives the audience a break from the politics and fast-paced lyrics.

Not only is Hamilton just a fun watch, but it also has a story and feeling behind it that is hard to look away from. Many people agree that it is a beautifully created piece, Broadway Inbound points out Hamilton's key themes are “the power of family, love, and friendship to create a strong foundation for personal success.” That is an extremely important message to send, especially to the young generation of high school students. These young adults can take the story of an otherwise forgotten founding father and use it in their own lives; not many writers have found ways to turn what seems like a boring story into a life lesson.

Photo by Rakie Jagne

More schools are having the opportunity to see Hamilton live and, even 10 years from when it started, it still holds its fame. GPHS kids remarked on how fun the trip turned out to be. “It was great!” Zoey Tietjen, a GPHS orchestra freshman stated. Many more kids enjoyed the show, as well. As the history of America grows further and further away, it is inspiring art like this that makes our stories live on. Even the small stories are important to remember and this young generation is a clean slate, just waiting to learn.

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