Hip-hop infused ‘Hamilton’ wows with its return to the Fox

The cosmic boom of American History and hip-hop culture that is Lin-Manuel Miranda’s “Hamilton” made its St. Louis return on Wednesday night at the Fabulous Fox Theatre. Mouths whispered along to every lyric. Bodies leaned forward in anticipation of memorable scenes. It was safe to assume that many in the audience had either seen the production before, or had the original Broadway cast recording on repeat. Whether the acquaintance with the musical was casual, or on the verge of obsession – like the group of young girls in matching custom-made costumes that resembled 18^th century men’s fashion – the feedback in response to this current production was mutual. To borrow from the words of Aaron Burr in “Dear Theodosia,” it blew us all away.

The biographical sketch of an often-unsung hero in America’s origin story might seem like an unlikely topic to build a musical that resonates enough to become a cultural phenomenon. With the Ron Chernow biography as his roadmap, Miranda brilliantly taps into the elements of Hamilton’s life that mirror the nation he helped to build – and the dream that has lived in the hearts of so many who have stepped foot on its soil in search of a better life.

In a second stroke of paradoxical ingenuity, Miranda relies on another origin story with humble American beginnings that would influence the world – hip hop. Like Hamilton, hip hop had to claw its way from the bottom using an iron will, grit and creative resourcefulness for its power and influence to be recognized.

In “Hamilton,” Founding fathers and other historical figures are remixed from unrelatable faces on American currency and names used to fill answer slots in grade school pop quizzes. The individuals featured are complicated beings who harnessed their ambitions and navigated through conflicts for the greater good of nation building.

What will keep audiences connected to “Hamilton” for generations to come is not only the story of the musical’s namesake – which plays out like a Shakespearian tragedy – but the talented individuals who rise to the incredible challenge of embodying him, and more of the men who constructed America.

Much is required for those who fill the shoes in a show that made Grammy and Tony Award winners of its stars – heart, soul, humor, and swag are a prerequisite. So are vocal chops to carry a tune and enough aptitude in lyrical cadence and vocal charisma to ride the beat while delivering a rap verse with intensity and precision.

The latest cohort of performers to bring “Hamilton” to St. Louis fans have it all – coupled with natural magnetism and enchanting chemistry. In the title role, Tyler Fauntleroy paces himself perfectly for the marathon of heavy lifting that comes with being the central figure in an epic story. He graciously yields for supporting cast members to have their moment but flips the switch with dexterity for scenes that require all eyes to be on him or call for intense connection – or conflict – with his costars. As Aaron Burr, Jimmie “JJ” Jeter is a delightful antagonist. He is also armed with vocal prowess that will prove satisfactory even among lovers of the original cast recording who have been accustomed to hearing the great Leslie Odom Jr. Lauren Mariasoosay is angelic as Eliza (Schuyler) Hamilton, which plays well against the strength and resolve exhibited by Marja Harmon as her sister Angelica Schuyler. But for this production, the show truly belongs to the artists in the smaller roles who, like Hamilton, make the most of their shot.

A.D. Weaver sings the stage down as George Washington. And Justin Matthew Sargent dials up the charm in his take on the whimsically played King George III. Nathan Haydel could rival a Gen Z rap star with his Philip Hamilton. But Jared Howelton is the MVP among the supporting players. He exhibits range with the stark contrasts in his dual roles as Marquis de Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson. His portrayal of Jefferson – with Howelton’s thousand-watt smile beaming brighter than the spotlight – is a show stealer. And through hilarious choreography liberties, he is distinguished from all the Jeffersons who have taken the stage before him.

Director Thomas Kail stages and paces the production to accentuate the talent and chemistry of his cast. And while the production elements are on brand with previous stagings, costume designer Paul Tazewell sets himself apart with pops of texture and color choices that add depth and dimension to the overall aesthetic.

“Hamilton” will continue through September 8 at The Fabulous Fox Theatre. For tickets or additional information, visit www.fabulousfox.com or call 314.534.1111.