Beyond ‘Hamilton’: ‘Falsettos,’ ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ & ‘Kinky Boots’ Offer Progressive Messages for Broadway
The mega-hit musical Hamilton was in the news recently, when Vice President-elect Mike Pence attended the show and gave Lin-Manuel Miranda's message about American diversity a newfound relevance. After the show, the cast urged Pence to heed the show's themes and image of an inclusive America where anyone can succeed, particularly those who would be disenfranchised by many of Pence's policies. By presenting this politically charged piece, Hamilton not only reflected something about the American experience, but also put that representation in the face of those who might not see things the same way.
But Hamilton isn't the only show that feels perfectly relevant in our current political age. Here are four other musicals whose messages should be heard by politicians and their constituents alike:
Falsettos:
William Finn's groundbreaking musical, which originally debuted in 1992, takes on the life and tribulations of a Jewish family and centers on a gay love story in the age of the AIDS crisis. In a time when so many groups feel threatened by marginalization, this essentially human message of acceptance and love goes a long way. Tickets to see Falsettos can be purchased right through the box office.
Dear Evan Hansen:
This new musical takes on the issue of mental health, an issue that-while not at the political forefront-is nevertheless enduringly relevant for much of the population. The show centers on Evan Hansen, a teen with anxiety, and the aftermath of a fellow classmate's suicide, offering an important de-stigmatization of a national problem. The show also brings to light the way in which social media proliferates fictitious stories as well as fake news through many viral channels. Dear Evan Hansen tickets range from $69-$175 through Telecharge.
Fiddler on the Roof:
Though this classic musical may be set in Russia at the turn of the century, its themes of family and community in the face of a changing nation still ring true. This well-known tale of a Jewish community being oppressed by larger government forces has taken on a new political charge in an age where marginalized communities now feel more at-risk than ever. Fiddler on the Roof tickets can be purchased directly from the box office for as cheap as $35.
Kinky Boots:
Since 2013, Kinky Boots has been telling the story of Lola, a drag queen who helps to save a British shoe factory. This high-spirited, Tony Award-winning show offers a fun score by Cyndi Lauper, but also an important message: "You change the world when you change your mind." Fans looking to snag tickets to Kinky Boots can grab them right through the box office.
(Video Courtesy of CNN/YouTube)
TagsHamilton, Kinky Boots, Falsettos, Dear Evan Hansen, Fiddler on the Roof
