What It’s Like to Be in Hamilton (Opening Tonight in Vancouver)

Broadway buffs have been waiting for Hamilton to come to town since the musical took over the world in 2015—and this summer, the show is finally opening at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. “It’s incredible to be a part of it,” says Marja Harmon, who plays Angelica Schuyler in the touring cast. The Indiana-born triple threat remembers seeing the original performers (many of whom were people of colour playing white historical characters) on Broadway back in 2016. “I was looking at the stage and seeing someone like myself playing a role I had never quite been allowed to play,” Harmon shares. “It was so impactful.” 

Marja Harmon

Now in a principal role herself, Harmon says the show continues to tug at the heartstrings of people. “I think it hits different now than it did before the pandemic,” she says. “Hamilton meant so much to so many people, and it means even more to us now.” While on tour, she’s bringing Angelica to life for eight shows every seven days, and moving from city to city every three or four weeks. “It can be really exhausting,” she admits, sharing that every decision she makes on tour works towards maintaining her body and voice. That means sleep, water, vocal rest and exercise. “We’re all very active, whether that’s strength training or pilates—I usually start the day with yoga,” she says. So keep an eye out for your favourite rapping founding figures at your morning flow class. 

Hamilton is in Vancouver from May 24 to June 19. Get tickets at vancouver.broadway.com. 

READ MORE: How to See Hamilton in Vancouver for $10