How to See “Hamilton”

“Hamilton,” the unprecedented smash is sold out until 2017. Tickets go for more than a month’s rent on StubHub. The digital lottery is Broadway's version of Powerball. But there might be a back door for true fanatics — but be ready to cancel all your plans for up to 24 hours.

Roughly one year ago, Sean Rameswaram made a promise to his mother: he would get her into “Hamilton” the next time she visited New York. Not having presidential-level access to the Richard Rogers Theatre, this meant hitting the cancellation line where house seats are typically offered to the public once declined by members of the cast and crew.

“Hamilton” isn't your typical show and its cancellation line is no less extraordinary. People sleep in it, people bribe their way to the front of it, and people have severe disagreements over its very existence. Undeterred, Sean and Chitra Rameswaram showed up before dawn one spring day with provisions (burritos, reading material, and lots of water) — and high hopes of not throwing away their shot. 

Chitra Rameswaram (second from right) waits in line in front of the Richard Rodgers Theatre, hoping for day-of tickets to “Hamilton”

 

Music Playlist

  1. Alexander Hamilton

    Album: Hamilton (Original Broadway Cast Recording)
    Label: Atlantic