Spoken Lines in Hamilton: A Musical Analysis

Hamilton, often hailed as a landmark in modern musical theatre, is predominantly sung and rapped through. However, there are some instances where the narrative allows for spoken dialogue that adds an extra layer of depth and emotion. This article delves into the instances of spoken lines in Hamilton and explores the deliberate artistic and musical choices that make the show truly unique.

The Spoken Word in Hamilton

While Hamilton is generally considered a sung-through musical, it does incorporate some spoken dialogue, emphasizing certain emotional moments or enhancing the narrative in specific scenes. One notable piece of spoken dialogue is found in the 'Laurens Interlude,' a scene unique to the Disney Live on Stage and recorded versions of Hamilton. In this scene, Alexander receives a letter from South Carolina, which is revealed to be a message from the father of his friend and fellow revolutionary, John Laurens. Eliza reads the letter to Alexander, bridging the gap between Alexander and the rest of the cast.

This spoken sequence, known as the 'Laurens Interlude,' employs speech to maintain the flow of the narrative while also heightening the emotional weight of the scene. The act of reading aloud adds a personal touch to the events, bringing the letter and its significance to life in a more immediate and visceral way.

Specific Instances of Spoken Lines

The use of spoken lines in Hamilton is primarily employed to underscore specific emotional moments or to transition between musical numbers. One such instance occurs during the song 'One Last Time,' where former President George Washington, with the help of Alexander Hamilton, drafts his farewell address. At a critical point, Hamilton breaks into speech, reciting lines from Washington’s address. Towards the end of his speech, Washington resumes singing, which serves to emphasize the emotional intensity of the moment.

Another significant instance of spoken dialogue is found in the scene where Alexander and Eliza are informed of the death of John Laurens. This pivotal moment, which doesn’t appear on the cast album, showcases the emotional impact of this event on the couple and the broader narrative. The spoken words provide a stark contrast to the musical context, emphasizing the rawness and immediacy of the moment.

Technical Considerations and Artistic Choices

The use of spoken dialogue in Hamilton is a deliberate artistic choice. Musically, the show is mostly sung and rapped through, creating a seamless flow that integrates various musical styles, including rap, hip-hop, and traditional musical theatre songs. The integration of spoken lines, however, is carefully balanced to maintain this flow and to highlight specific emotional or narrative moments.

For instance, in 'The Story of Tonight Reprise,' Burr’s revelation that Hamilton’s lover is married to a British officer is interspersed with Hamilton’s spontaneous 'Oh shit….' This spontaneous interjection is not part of the rhythmic flow and serves to add a layer of authenticity and realism to the character’s reaction to the news.

Conclusion

While Hamilton is predominantly sung-through, it does incorporate spoken lines to enrich the narrative and enhance the emotional impact of specific scenes. This blend of spoken and sung portions, while seeming minimal, plays a crucial role in the show’s overall success and appeal. The deliberate use of spoken dialogue underscores the humanity and authenticity of the characters, making the musical experience even more engaging and memorable.