Hamilton and Me: An Actor’s Journal – a unique, inside account of the musical phenomenon
£13.70£16.10 (-15%)
‘One of the most joyous and clear-eyed approaches to playing a character that I have ever read… I am so grateful Giles took notes on his process and turned them into this book. I was already in awe of his performance; now I’m in awe of his humanity and attention to detail and willingness to share the hard work and magic that goes into it.’ Lin-Manuel Miranda, from his Foreword
‘Stand. Breathe. Look. Try to empty my mind. Somehow, for some reason, I have been brought to this place to tell this story, now. So tell it. That’s all.’
When Lin-Manuel Miranda’s groundbreaking musical Hamilton opened in London’s West End in December 2017, it was as huge a hit as it had been in its original production off – and on Broadway. Lauded by critics and audiences alike, the show would go on to win a record-equalling seven Olivier Awards – including Best Actor in a Musical for Giles Terera, for his portrayal of Aaron Burr.
For Terera, though, his journey as Burr had begun more than a year earlier, with his first audition in New York, and continuing through extensive research and preparation, intense rehearsals, previews and finally opening night itself. Throughout this time he kept a journal, recording his experiences of the production and his process of creating his award-winning performance. This book, Hamilton and Me, is that journal
It offers an honest, intimate and thrilling look at everything involved in opening a once-in-a-generation production – the triumphs, breakthroughs and doubts, the camaraderie of the rehearsal room and the moments of quiet backstage contemplation – as well as a fascinating, in-depth exploration of now-iconic songs and moments from the musical, as seen from the inside. It is also deeply personal, as Terera reflects on experiences from his own life that he drew on to help shape his acclaimed portrayal
Illustrated with dozens of colour photographs, many of which are shared here for the first time, and featuring an exclusive Foreword by Lin-Manuel Miranda, this book is an essential read for all fans of Hamilton – offering fresh, first-hand insights into the music and characters they love and know so well – as well as for aspiring and current performers, students, and anyone who wants to discover what it really felt like to be in the room where it happened.
The author’s credentials as a Hamilton expert are second to none… the real strength of this book lies not only in its affection for the show and the company but also a great deal of detail about the topsy-turvy adventure of bringing it to the stage. British Theatre Guide
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Additional information
| Publisher | Nick Hern Books (1 July 2021) |
|---|---|
| Language | English |
| Hardcover | 224 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 1848429991 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-1848429994 |
| Dimensions | 22.3 x 2.8 x 14.4 cm |
by Amazon Customer
A brilliant read for anyone that loves theatre not just Hamilton! It gives you a great insight into the process a show goes through and a deeper look into aspects of Hamilton you otherwise wouldn’t see.
by buyer
Bought as a present but seems good value and well presented.
by Jam
Walk alongside Giles as he carefully reflects on his experience, thoughts and feelings, on a professional and human level, during the weeks and months of staging Hamilton for its International debut in the West End.
by Jason R.
An amazing insight into Hamilton and theatre performance in general!
The journal has been neatened up to make it more readable, but the short sentences are still present and make the whole thing feel more real, like it was written in the moments between rehearsals.
Teresa’s short writing style gets lots of useful information across very quickly, and is certainly something I will try to adopt in my own journals!
by a Parent
Loved this book. Familiarity with the creation of the London version of Hamilton musical a must. A interesting insight.
by kelly
As an actor, as a huge Hamilton fan this was heartfelt insightful and a pleasure to read.
by George Gillams
This book is a brilliant story of Giles’ journey through Hamilton, and provides a lot of insight into the process of creating the show in London. Every Hamilton fan should read this!
Thank you for sharing the thoughts and feelings you experienced with us, and for being so open about everything.
by Amazon Customer
I happened upon this book by chance and read it cover to cover in two hours, completely unable to put it down. What a brilliant, inspiring read. Terera’s insight into his craft is simply masterful. How I wish I’d had it to read when I was at drama school. If you’re an actor, an aspiring actor, or have even a passing interest in acting then I cannot recommend this highly enough.