The acclaimed Broadway musical Hamilton, created by Lin-Manuel Miranda, found itself at the centre of a political storm when cast members delivered an impassioned plea to then-Vice President Mike Pence during a performance in 2016.
The message, widely interpreted as a critique of Donald Trump's presidency, urged the incoming administration to uphold American values and protect the nation's diverse communities.
A Theatrical Statement
Brandon Victor Dixon, who played Aaron Burr at the time, read the statement from the stage after the curtain call, saying: "We, sir, are the diverse America who are alarmed and anxious that your new administration will not protect us."
The unprecedented moment made headlines across America, with many praising the cast for using their platform to advocate for inclusivity.
Trump's Reaction
Then-President-elect Donald Trump swiftly responded on social media, demanding an apology from the cast and calling the incident "harassment" of Mike Pence. His tweets sparked further debate about the intersection of art and politics.
The show's creator, Lin-Manuel Miranda, defended the cast's actions, stating they were exercising their right to free speech and expressing legitimate concerns shared by many Americans.
Hamilton's Cultural Impact
The incident underscored Hamilton's unique position in American culture - a musical that reimagines the nation's founding through contemporary musical styles while making pointed commentary about modern politics.
Since its debut, the show has become more than entertainment; it's evolved into a cultural phenomenon that continues to influence political discourse.
