As the lights brighten and the last music number fades, the audience’s immediate response is to leap to their feet. In the movie theatre, a standing ovation loiters long after the credits have passed.
The reaction of the crowd leaves an imprint that isn’t marked just for another movie; it celebrates what is now a decade of Hamilton. Ten short years after its Broadway debut, this revolutionary musical is now in theaters starting Sep. 5, 2025, nationwide.
“I screamed and threw my phone at the wall,” Sophomore Kaidyn Courtney-Peavler said. “I told my mom, September 5th, that I have to be at the movie theater. There’s no way we’re going anywhere else.”
Freshman Kiara Sama was excited for Hamilton to come to theaters, knowing it would give others a more nostalgic feel to sit back and see it on the silver screen.
“I feel good that it’s coming to theaters so people can experience it away from Disney,” Sama said.
Even though the musical debuted a decade ago, its influence is still felt today. Senior Elliette Rolling claimed the show’s lasting impact on audiences.
“While it came out in 2015, people still see it as one of the most influential and profound musicals that people still listen to and love,” Rolling said. “People still learn about this musical and continue to love it, so it has the same effect.”
One of the key components of the show is its detailed production of storytelling. Rolling believes Hamilton has changed her point of view on history itself.
“I actually learned a lot about history and how America was founded through Hamilton,” Rolling said. “I didn’t have a traditional educational upbringing, so this musical was a fun and interesting way to learn more about American history.”
For Peavler, the musical’s attention to historical detail was what made the play so memorable. She also believes it made classroom lessons feel more engaging.
“I’m over the moon excited. Hamilton is the best play ever,” Peavler said. “Hamilton definitely got me through 8th-grade US history.”
Sama expressed that the musical helps her comprehend history in another form.
“It’s more of a visual learning experience,” Sama said. “I can understand more about the American Revolution and how the US came together.”
According to Rolling, this is more than a show. It’s a tool that makes history more engaging. Its revolution has not only influenced her as a child but also continues to reach the younger crowd.
“It makes the story of America and Alexander Hamilton much more fun for younger listeners to enjoy,” Rolling said. “It taught me, when I was younger, about history, so this musical is an inspirational way for younger audiences to enjoy it.”
Peavler shares that one song in particular has always stood out to her.
“The part of the show I connect with the most is ‘My Shot’,” Peavler said. “That’s my favorite because it shows you really only have one opportunity to do something right.”
