How to Cite Hamilton the Musical: A Symphony of Chaos and Order

When it comes to citing Hamilton the Musical, one might as well be trying to choreograph a dance between a hurricane and a library. The process is both an art and a science, much like the musical itself, which blends hip-hop, history, and a dash of theatrical chaos. But fear not, for this guide will navigate you through the labyrinth of citation styles, while also pondering the existential question: Why do we cite art, and does art cite us back?

The Basics of Citing Hamilton the Musical

Before diving into the nitty-gritty, let’s establish the foundation. Hamilton is a theatrical production, which means it falls under the category of a performance. However, it’s also a recorded album, a script, and a cultural phenomenon. Depending on how you’re referencing it, the citation format will vary. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Citing the Live Performance

If you’re referencing the live performance of Hamilton, you’ll need to include the following elements in your citation:

• Title of the Play: Hamilton: An American Musical
• Writer/Composer: Lin-Manuel Miranda
• Director: Thomas Kail
• Theater: The Richard Rodgers Theatre (or the specific theater where you saw it)
• Location: New York City (or the city where you saw it)
• Date of Performance: The exact date you attended

Example in MLA format:

Miranda, Lin-Manuel. *Hamilton: An American Musical*. Directed by Thomas Kail, Richard Rodgers Theatre, New York City, 15 Oct. 2023.

2. Citing the Cast Recording

The cast recording is a separate entity from the live performance. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Album Title: Hamilton: An American Musical (Original Broadway Cast Recording)
• Composer/Lyricist: Lin-Manuel Miranda
• Performers: Original Broadway Cast
• Record Label: Atlantic Records
• Year of Release: 2015

Example in APA format:

Miranda, L.-M. (2015). *Hamilton: An American Musical (Original Broadway Cast Recording)* [Album]. Atlantic Records.

3. Citing the Script or Libretto

If you’re referencing the written script or libretto, the citation will look different:

• Title: Hamilton: The Revolution
• Author: Lin-Manuel Miranda and Jeremy McCarter
• Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
• Year of Publication: 2016

Example in Chicago style:

Miranda, Lin-Manuel, and Jeremy McCarter. *Hamilton: The Revolution*. New York: Grand Central Publishing, 2016.

The Philosophical Quandary of Citing Art

Now that we’ve covered the technicalities, let’s delve into the deeper question: Why do we cite art? Is it to give credit, to anchor our arguments, or to prove that we’ve done our homework? Or is it, perhaps, a way to participate in the ongoing dialogue between creator and audience?

Hamilton is a unique case because it blurs the lines between history and fiction, between past and present. When we cite Hamilton, are we citing Lin-Manuel Miranda’s interpretation of Alexander Hamilton’s life, or are we citing history itself? And if history is written by the winners, does that make Hamilton a winner’s citation?

The Cultural Impact of Hamilton and Its Citation

Hamilton has transcended the stage to become a cultural touchstone. It’s referenced in political speeches, academic papers, and even memes. This raises another question: How do we cite something that has become a part of our collective consciousness?

For example, if you’re writing about the musical’s influence on modern political discourse, you might cite specific lines or themes. But how do you capture the essence of a phenomenon that has inspired countless think pieces, parodies, and even a dedicated fanbase known as “Hamilfans”?

FAQs About Citing Hamilton the Musical

1. Can I cite Hamilton in a research paper about American history?

Absolutely! Hamilton offers a unique perspective on the founding of the United States. Just be sure to clarify whether you’re citing the musical as a primary or secondary source, depending on your argument.

2. How do I cite a specific song from the cast recording?

To cite a specific song, include the track title and the album details. For example:

Miranda, Lin-Manuel. “My Shot.” *Hamilton: An American Musical (Original Broadway Cast Recording)*, Atlantic Records, 2015.

3. What if I’m citing a video of the performance, like the Disney+ recording?

For filmed performances, include the platform and the year of release. Example:

Miranda, Lin-Manuel. *Hamilton*. Directed by Thomas Kail, Disney+, 2020.

4. Is it necessary to cite Hamilton if I’m just discussing it informally?

While informal discussions don’t require formal citations, it’s always good practice to acknowledge the source of your ideas, especially when discussing a work as influential as Hamilton.

In conclusion, citing Hamilton the Musical is more than just a technical exercise—it’s a way to engage with a work that has redefined storytelling, history, and art. Whether you’re a scholar, a fan, or a casual observer, remember that every citation is a nod to the brilliance of Lin-Manuel Miranda and the enduring legacy of Hamilton. And who knows? Maybe one day, Hamilton will cite you back.