University of Richmond Professors Share Expertise on Broadway Phenomenon 'Hamilton' Prior to Show's Richmond Arrival

UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND — Three University of Richmond professors will participate in a panel discussion on how Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s Founding Fathers, and the musical hit based on his life, has transformed America’s historical imagination. 

"'History Is Happening’: Understanding Hamilton" will take place Sun. Nov. 17, 5 p.m., in Ukrop Auditorium, Robins School of Business, which is two days before the play opens at Richmond’s Altria Theater.

Faculty panelists include:

• Kevin Cherry, associate professor of political science, will discuss Hamilton’s understanding of government, executive power, and liberty.
• Patricia Hererra, associate professor of theatre, will discuss the power of the theater and the arts in rewriting history and making pathways for a more inclusive America.
• Samantha Seeley, assistant professor of history, will explore Lin Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton as a creation of our times’ needs versus those of the 18th century, providing context on the contentious politics of the 1790s.

Since its debut in 2015, Hamilton: An American Musical has become a household name and cultural phenomenon. The Broadway smash hit is a sung-and-rapped through musical about the life of American Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, inspired by the 2004 biography Alexander Hamilton by historian Ron Chernow. Incorporating hip hop, R&B, pop, soul, traditional-style show tunes, and color-conscious casting of non-white actors as the Founding Fathers and other historical figures, the musical has achieved both critical acclaim and box office success.

To connect with University of Richmond experts who can provide insight of the play visit http://bit.ly/URHamiltonExperts.

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Media interested in covering the event or connecting with faculty for comments should contact Lindsey Campbell, media relations specialist at lcampbe4@richmond.edu.