Disney’s “Hamilton” Musical To Premiere In July On Disney Plus

Walt Disney Co will release a film recording of the smash Broadway musical “Hamilton” on its streaming service on July 3, the eve of U.S. Independence Day, the company said on says.

The Hamilton film was actually shot in 2016, on Broadway, with the show’s original cast. The main reason to delay it in the first place was to keep demand up for tickets to the Hamilton show, which back in February was still play eight times a week in New York, and in touring companies around the country. Since then, live theater has gone dark everywhere because of coronavirus. So this is very clever plague counter-programming.

Disney’s February press release touted Hamilton as …a leap forward in the art of ‘live capture.’ This movie transports its audience into the world of the Broadway show in a uniquely intimate way. Combining the best elements of live theater and film, the result is a cinematic stage performance that is a wholly new way to experience Hamilton.” Plus, it’s a lovely way to celebrate Independence Day this year. And now it’s less than two months away.

Disney had planned to debut the film, which features footage of the live show in June 2016 with creator Lin-Manuel Miranda and the original cast, in movie theaters in October 2021. But the coronavirus pandemic, which has shuttered Broadway stages and cineplexes, has prompted Disney to adapt its programming strategy. “In light of the extraordinary challenges facing our world, this story about leadership, tenacity, hope, love and the power of people to unite against the forces of adversity is both relevant and impactful,” Disney Executive Chairman Bob Iger said in a statement.

“Hamilton” is a rap musical in which African-American and Latino actors play the founding fathers of the United States. It won 11 Tony awards and a Pulitzer Prize.

It’s only a matter of time…

Our Hamilton film.
THIS July 3rd.
On Disney+.#Hamilfilm pic.twitter.com/cXTM949hRr

— Lin-Manuel Miranda (@Lin_Manuel) May 12, 2020