I was prepared to be a little let down by Hamilton. I knew it would be a great show, with such incredible rave reviews and tickets flying out of the box office so fast. But with all the praise and excitement around the show, would it meet my high expectations? I’m happy to share that “Hamilton” not only met but exceeded expectations and had me glowing for days. I don’t remember any show sparking as much post-performance conversation as Hamilton did. My husband Brandon and I compared our favorite moments, gushed about the choreography choices, debated which actors stood out the most for us, and were both in awe of the entire production.

Easily one of the top three musicals of all time, the stage stays alive with continuous song and dancing. The company carries the energy of the show along, with movements on the side of the main action, painting a visual picture of the emotion of the characters on stage, showing through dance both what is being said and what is left unsaid. This cast’s ensemble is incredibly strong as they work together to perfectly tell the tale and keep the audience transfixed from start to end.

I went into this show without listening to the soundtrack, only knowing the style of the music and the catchy “My Shot” number. I worried that the sound quality or fast-paced nature of the music would make it hard for me to follow along. I kept my reviewer tickets a secret from Brandon until we walked to the Paramount that night and part of me wondered if that was a mistake. Should I have told him in advance so we could have spent time listening to the soundtrack? I thought of the times I’d seen shows where it was hard to understand and I’d wished I’d listened to the soundtrack in advance so I could follow along better. Luckily, and surprisingly, the actors were crystal clear and we were able to follow along incredibly well during the entire show, a true feat at the speed that they sing for many numbers.

This particular cast is incredible. There was no weak link, something you rarely find in any performance. At times, I noticed my jaw dropping in amazement. “Hamilton” is truly a remarkable show and I hope inspires a new generation of musical theatre writers to toss aside the tendencies to turn another movie into a musical and create something so new, so unique, and so enchanting.

There are select tickets available for some of the remaining performances and you can sign up for ticket alerts (The Paramount emailed today that more tickets were released for 2/21). If “Hamilton” tickets aren’t in your budget right now, you can also play the Hamilton lottery on the Hamilton app on your phone for your chance to purchase $10 tickets.

Some musicals get overhyped, but “Hamilton” simply isn’t one of them. I’m so grateful that we were able to see this glorious production and recommend it to everyone. “Hamilton” plays The Paramount in downtown Seattle now through March 18, 2018. Tickets here.