What do you get when you combine a true classic of modern arts and culture with a fun and highly popular interactive activity? “Hamiltunes,” of course! “Hamiltunes” is a fun and culturally enriching performing arts showcase that will be presented from 11 am to 3 pm on Saturday, January 14, at the East Hernando Branch Library, located at 6457 Windmere Rd., Brooksville.
“‘Hamiltunes’ is a karaoke presentation of the history-making musical ‘Hamilton’ by Lin-Manuel Miranda,” explained Jennifer Hodges, branch supervisor of the East Hernando Branch Library. “‘Hamilton’s producers have authorized these free sing-along performances that give fans the opportunity to perform the part of a favorite character before a live audience.”
“Hamilton” is a milestone Broadway production, composed by Composer/Actor Lin Manuel-Miranda, that tells the story of founding father Alexander Hamilton by way of jazz, hip-hop, R&B, and show tunes. Debuting in 2015, Hamilton won 11 Tony awards and a Pulitzer Prize for Drama.
“Hamiltunes” allows everyone to stand in the spotlight of a hit Broadway show, which counts “Alexander Hamilton,” “My Shot,” and “The Story of Tonight” among some of its more notable numbers. While everyone will be encouraged to sing along with fellow Hamilton fans from the audience, singers also can lead songs from the stage in a singalong fashion. Pieces will be assigned to those who sign up first. Space is limited, and registration is required. “Costumes are encouraged, and prizes will be awarded,” said Hodges.
Cynthia Loftis-Culp, library services director of the Hernando County Public Library System, feels that activities such as “Hamiltunes” enrich library patrons’ lives and cultural palettes. She stated, “Hernando County Public Library is a community hub where we try to provide cultural and creative opportunities, programs, and materials to help enrich lives. We point people to wider cultural activities, objects, knowledge, and sites, and encourage individuals to explore different experiences and to be creative.”
Ready to take your shot? Visit the Hernando County Library’s website and sign up for “Hamiltunes!” For more information, please call 352-754-4043 or visit bit.ly/HamiltunesHernando.
Loftis-Culp shared, “We connect people to information and programs and connect people to people. The Hamiltunes Program is just one of the many fun programs that the library offers.”
