Hamilton: An American Musical is a global phenomenon that redefined musical theatre when it premiered in 2015. Written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the show tells the story of Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s Founding Fathers, through an electrifying mix of hip-hop, R&B, and traditional Broadway tunes. When it first opened on Broadway, Hamilton became a cultural sensation, with tickets selling out months in advance and sitcoms joking about how impossible it was to score a seat.
The musical made its West End debut in 2017, earning rave reviews and capturing the hearts of UK audiences. It later began touring across the country, bringing the Hamilton magic to cities beyond London. In 2020, fans worldwide celebrated as Hamilton became available to stream on Disney+, allowing many to experience its brilliance for the first time from home.
But how do you transition from streaming it on your sofa to watching Hamilton live in the theatre—especially if you’re bringing kids along? Read on for a complete family guide to Hamilton, including tips for deciding whether to take your children, what to expect, and how to make the experience unforgettable for the whole family.
Table Of Contents
What Is Hamilton About?
Hamilton: An American Musical tells the story of Alexander Hamilton, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, through a modern lens. Written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the show blends hip-hop, R&B, and traditional musical theatre styles to deliver a powerful narrative about ambition, legacy, and the human spirit. The story follows Hamilton’s rise from an impoverished immigrant to one of the most influential figures in American history, set against the backdrop of the Revolutionary War and the founding of a new nation.
The musical’s themes include ambition, resilience, love, betrayal, and the cost of legacy. It showcases pivotal moments in Hamilton’s life, such as his relationship with his wife Eliza, his affair with Maria Reynolds, his political rivalries, and ultimately his tragic duel with Aaron Burr. These themes resonate deeply with audiences of all ages, but parents should be aware of a few mature elements when deciding if it’s suitable for children.
Themes and Content: Is Hamilton Suitable for Kids?
While Hamilton is an inspiring and educational musical, it does include some mature themes and language that parents should consider before taking their children:
Themes to Be Aware Of
- Violence: The Revolutionary War and dueling are central to the story, with references to battles and a staged duel resulting in Hamilton’s death. However, the violence is stylised and not graphic.
- Infidelity: There is a subplot involving Hamilton’s affair with Maria Reynolds, which is addressed in one song. It’s not overly explicit but may raise questions from younger viewers.
- Language: The show contains some explicit language. However, a non-explicit version of the soundtrack is available for families who prefer to avoid this.
- Death: Several characters die during the show, including a child, which may be upsetting for some children.
Our Family’s Experience
I decided to take my children to see Hamilton because they absolutely love it. We’ve listened to the non-explicit version of the soundtrack for years, and they are familiar with the story and the songs. I’ve made them aware that there are a few words in the show that they shouldn’t repeat, but we’ve approached it as an opportunity to enjoy a brilliant piece of art together while also having discussions about its themes.
For us, the educational and cultural value outweighed the minor concerns, but every family is different. Use your discretion and consider your children’s maturity levels when deciding.
Tips for Seeing Hamilton with Kids
If you’ve decided to take your children to see Hamilton, here are some tips to make the experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible:
1. Prepare Your Kids Beforehand
- Explain the Story: Give your children an overview of the plot so they can follow along. Listening to the soundtrack in advance is a great way to do this.
- Watch the Disney+ Version: If possible, watch the filmed version of Hamilton on Disney+ so they’ll know what to expect. Honestly, the music is so fast, I’d recommend this for kids and adults alike. I feel that the more familiar you are with the soundtrack, the more you’ll enjoy the show.
2. Address Potential Sensory Issues
- Ear Defenders for Kids with Autism: If your child is sensitive to loud noises, bring ear defenders to help them feel more comfortable.
- Watch Vlogs of the Theatre: Look up vlogs (like ours!) of the venue to familiarise your children with what it looks like and what to expect.
3. Plan Your Day Around the Show
- Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to get to the theatre, park, and find your seats without stress.
- Bring Snacks: Some theatres allow small snacks or drinks; check the policy beforehand. A snack during intermission can be a lifesaver for younger kids.
4. Talk About Theatre Etiquette
- Explain the importance of staying quiet during the performance and waiting until intermission to talk or move around. Framing it as part of the fun — being like a grown-up — can make it exciting for children.
5. Meet the Cast at the Stage Door
After the show, head to the stage door for a chance to meet the cast. In our experience, the actors have been incredibly kind and generous, signing programmes and chatting with fans. This can be a magical moment for children and a wonderful way to end the day.
Hamilton Outfits
There’s absolutely no expectation to dress up when attending Hamilton, but my children decided to wear outfits inspired by the show, and it added an extra layer of excitement to the experience. Their costumes sparked wonderful interactions with the cast at the stage door, making the day even more special. If your kids enjoy dressing up, it can be a fun way to connect with the show’s themes and characters, but it’s entirely optional.
Schyuler Sisters Dresses
Videos To Watch Before Seeing Hamilton
My Hamilton Vlogs
Amazing Videos About Themes In Hamilton
A Very Funny Video From Katherine Ryan
Songs That Didn’t Make It Into The Show But Are Amazing
Final Thoughts
Taking your children to see Hamilton can be a fantastic family experience filled with memorable moments and valuable lessons. While it’s important to be mindful of the show’s themes and content, with a little preparation, it’s an opportunity to introduce your kids to the magic of live theatre and a piece of art that has inspired millions worldwide.
Whether you’re a long-time Hamilton fan or seeing it for the first time, this guide will help you make the most of your theatre outing. If you’ve seen Hamilton with your family, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to check out our vlog for more tips and behind-the-scenes moments.
Get My Free Ultimate Mum Bundle Now
Join my email club and get your hands on my free “Ultimate Mum Bundle” of organisation printables.
Shop The Organised Life Planner
Join Me In Patreon
