Before Hamilton and Moana, musical legend Lin-Manuel Miranda released his debut musical, In The Heights. The original Broadway run went on to win four Tony Awards, including Best Musical. It was then made into a film in 2021. Set in New York’s Washington Heights, this musical tells the story of a close, predominantly Latino community on the cusp of change. After taking over the Hayes Theatre and the Sydney Opera House, In The Heights is now playing in Melbourne at the Comedy Theatre.
In The Heights
Escape the winter cold and feel transported to a sweltering summer in New York, complete with ice-cold piragua in the lobby and electrifying dance numbers on stage. This sensational musical celebrates community, culture and the pursuit of dreams. As the show unfolds, the residents of Washington Heights must ask themselves what it means to call a place ‘home’ and grapple with issues like gentrification. Expect plenty of infectious tunes from Lin-Manuel Miranda that blend hip hop, salsa and Latin rhythms.
Follow Usnavi, a bodega owner who dreams of returning to the Dominican Republic, Vanessa, who wishes to leave the neighbourhood and move downtown, Nina, a gifted student struggling with the cost of tuition and her cultural identity among the privileged folks of Stanford and plenty of other characters in this tightly-knit neighbourhood.
There’s a lot of stories to follow, and they all come together to create an exciting few days in New York. The songs and dance numbers are the lifeblood of the show, with notable sequences including The Club, Blackout and Carnaval Del Barrio.
Ryan González (Moulin Rouge! The Musical) is a great Usnavi, delivering Lin-Manuel’s lyrics with ease. Olivia Vásquez (West Side Story) shines as Vanessa, and is particularly captivating during the dance scene at The Club. Mariah Gonzalez is easy to cheer for as Nina, and does an excellent job in Breathe. Both Ngali Shaw and Steve Costi are fun to watch as Benny and Sonny. Vanessa Menjivar is hilarious as the gossipy salon owner Daniela. Lena Crus is endearing as Abuela, and Richard Valdez steals the show as Piragua Guy.
The show is directed by Luke Joslin and features choreography by Amy Campbell.
After its season in Melbourne, the musical will head to the Gold Coast to perform at HOTA from September 12.
Learn more about the show here.
