Lin Manuel Miranda’s decision to cast people of color (POC) as white historical figures in Hamilton the musical, both helps to further representation for POC in musical theater, and more accurately depicts the America of today, as well as the music of today, while unfortunately also misrepresenting and glorifying history. Hamilton, as an example, shows what a great impact art has on our society, our politics, and our culture. This essay serves as a response to critics of the show, illustrating how if artists do not have the freedom or do not put in the effort to make these political statements, no real progress of art being a conduit for change would occur. This essay highlights why art should be used to join in discourses surrounding politics and current events, as artists are often the first shepherds of change. Indeed, …
