By Eliza Trent, Senior Correspondent
On June 8, 2025, the original Broadway cast of “Hamilton” delivered an electrifying reunion performance at the 78th Annual Tony Awards, held at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. The momentous occasion marked the musical’s 10th anniversary and was hailed as a highlight of the evening by fans and critics alike.
The performance, which aired live on CBS and streamed on Paramount+, featured Lin-Manuel Miranda, Leslie Odom Jr., Phillipa Soo, Daveed Diggs, Renée Elise Goldsberry, Jonathan Groff, Christopher Jackson, Jasmine Cephas Jones, and other key members of the original cast. Together, they performed a medley of songs from the show, rekindling the powerful energy that first took Broadway by storm in 2015.
A Musical That Changed Broadway
“Hamilton” debuted on Broadway on August 6, 2015, at the Richard Rodgers Theatre and quickly became a cultural touchstone. Created by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the musical tells the story of American Founding Father Alexander Hamilton through a groundbreaking mix of hip-hop, R&B, pop, and traditional show tunes.
The show won 11 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and went on to win the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 2016. Its success not only revolutionized musical theater but also sparked conversations about diversity and historical representation on stage.
The cast recording became a commercial juggernaut, reaching the top of the Billboard Rap Albums chart and earning multi-platinum certifications. Its influence extended beyond the theater world, inspiring educators, historians, and fans globally.
A Star-Studded Reunion
Ten years after its debut, the reunion at the Tony Awards brought an emotional wave of nostalgia. Every principal actor, except for Anthony Ramos, returned to reprise their iconic roles. The ensemble also featured many of the original supporting actors and dancers, adding depth and authenticity to the performance.
Audience members erupted into a standing ovation as the cast took the stage. Miranda led the group in “The Room Where It Happens,” followed by a powerful rendition of “Wait For It” by Odom Jr. Soo’s haunting “Burn” and Goldsberry’s soaring “Satisfied” drew raucous applause, reminding audiences of the show’s emotional range and lyrical genius.
Jonathan Groff, reprising his role as King George III, added a humorous twist with his trademark smirk and commanding stage presence. Christopher Jackson’s performance of “One Last Time” brought the crowd to tears.
A Night of Broadway Excellence
Hosted by acclaimed actress and singer Cynthia Erivo, the 2025 Tony Awards celebrated a banner year for Broadway. The ceremony included live performances from other major musicals, showcasing the vitality of the theater community after years of pandemic disruptions.
Several productions received multiple nominations, including “Maybe Happy Ending,” “Death Becomes Her,” and “Buena Vista Social Club.” While competition was fierce, the “Hamilton” cast reunion stood apart as a celebration of a legacy rather than a contender.
The event also honored Harvey Fierstein with a Lifetime Achievement Award and recognized Celia Keenan-Bolger for her contributions to arts education and community service.
A Lasting Legacy
The reunion was more than a trip down memory lane—it was a testament to the enduring legacy of “Hamilton.” The musical redefined what a Broadway show could be, both artistically and culturally. It opened doors for new voices in theater, encouraged bold storytelling, and brought hip-hop to the Great White Way in a way never seen before.
Many in attendance commented on how “Hamilton” continues to influence casting decisions, musical styles, and audience expectations. Its impact is evident in the growing diversity of Broadway productions and the rising popularity of history-based shows that approach their subjects with creativity and inclusivity.
Available to a New Generation
For those who couldn’t attend the awards or watch live, the performance is now available to stream. Fans, educators, and newcomers can experience the reunion and reflect on the decade-long journey of a musical that reshaped American theater.
As Broadway looks to the future, the cast of “Hamilton” has reminded the world of where it’s been—and how far it can still go. From its first curtain rise to its anniversary celebration, “Hamilton” continues to inspire, challenge, and move audiences with every beat.
