The Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium in Chattanooga is hosting the world-famous musical "Hamilton" through May 2. The musical explores the life and legacy of Alexander Hamilton, a key player in the American Revolution and the early United States. The internationally renowned production has captivated audiences for 10 years now.
“Hamilton” cast member Lily Soto, an actress from Nashville, has already made a significant impact in the world of theatre at age 23. Her journey to "Hamilton" is a testament to her dedication and passion for the craft.
Soto, who is of white and Puerto Rican descent, brings a rich cultural heritage to her performances. An alumna of New York University, she views this leg of the tour as a homecoming, embracing the opportunity to perform in her home state. Her diverse background and personal history add depth to her portrayal of the characters.
“I’ve been to Chattanooga several times with my family to experience all the beautiful scenery,” Ms. Soto said. “Being back in Tennessee is always great. Nashville isn’t too far from Chattanooga, so I've already visited my family. They're going to come out to see me. It's the best situation because it’s not too far away travel wise.”
In "Hamilton," Ms. Soto takes on the roles of Peggy Schuyler and Maria Reynolds. Each role demands a unique approach, showcasing her versatility as an actress, requiring her to both sing and dance. Peggy, one of the Schuyler sisters, is characterized by her spirited and youthful energy. Ms. Reynolds, on the other hand, is a more complex character, involved in a scandalous affair with Hamilton. Ms. Soto's ability to navigate these contrasting roles speaks to her talent and range.
“We call them a dual role, dual characters, where you play two characters in one show,” Ms. Soto said. “I am the only female who plays two roles (in the show). I play Peggy Schuyler in the first act, which is the youngest sister, she's the youngest of the three. We kind of see her dirty and being the youngest of the crew and kind of experiencing the revolution and what a young woman would be seeing at this time. And then in the second act, (Maria) Reynolds, is the mistress of (Alexander) Hamilton, whom he had an affair with.”
“Hamilton” is an internationally renowned production, and the Auditorium, known for hosting a myriad of cultural and entertainment events, provides the perfect backdrop for the show. With stunning choreography, powerful vocals, and a compelling narrative “Hamilton” is a grand spectacle.
"Hamilton" combines the elements of modern Hip-Hop with traditional musical theatre. It narrates Hamilton's story from his birth to his tragic death. The production vividly portrays Hamilton’s time as a founding father, his personal relationships, and his political struggles. The musical's unique blend of history, music, and diverse casting has garnered immense popularity throughout the years. The show's creator, Lin-Manuel Miranda, ingeniously uses Rap and Hip-Hop to bring the historical figures to life, making the story accessible and engaging for contemporary audiences. Themes of ambition, legacy, and the American dream highlight the nation's past and present.
In conversation with Lily Soto, she reminisced about her journey and the preparation that led her to this point. Her dedication to her craft is evident in the time and effort she has invested. From rigorous rehearsals to understanding the historical context of her characters, her commitment shines through.
“When I got to college, I was a contemporary singer (Classic Rock), so I wasn't on the musical theatre track,” Ms. Soto said. “I decided that I was going to switch to musical theatre, because I had an interest in it. “Musical theatre, the thing in New York and on Broadway. I was really interested in it.”
The process of joining "Hamilton" wasn’t without its challenges. Ms. Soto faced intense competition and rigorous auditions, but her perseverance paid off. Reflecting on her experience, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of such a monumental production. Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors, emphasizing the importance of hard work and resilience.
“The whole process has been such a whirlwind,” Ms. Soto said. “My senior year in college, I ended up going in person for the audition. I found out that I was booked (for the show) a day before I graduated. I graduated last May 2024 and then I went into rehearsals in June. I literally graduated and then went right into the tour. I had to keep it a secret that I was in the show. I was anticipating going into this crazy wonderful experience. Honestly, this was my dream show. This has been a dream for me and everything that I've done with the company.”
"Hamilton" has left an indelible mark on the world of theatre and beyond. It has sparked conversations about race, identity, and the complexities of the American experience. Ms. Soto's journey and her role in the musical add an extra layer of excitement, showcasing the talent and dedication behind the production.
“’Hamilton' honestly is such an amazing show and experience,” Ms. Soto said. “I think everybody should experience it. The musical is able to capture contemporary music in such a way using musical theatre, especially with Hip Hop and Rap, and to experience that in a musical theatre form is really cool, but also for representation. Growing up in the arts, essentially, where I was living, I didn't see a lot of people of color in the theatre industry. It's just really cool to see a show where there's such a prominence of that. To just see yourself on stage is a really cool experience.”
The driven Soto wants to do great things in her line of work as well as in the theatre industry. As an avid fan of Led Zeppelin and The Who, she is determined to grow and explore new ventures.
“I've always been interested in everything,” Ms. Soto said. “I've changed many different styles since I was young. I'm always interested in every opportunity that comes my way because I just love to perform in general. It would be amazing to do anything you know outside of theatre.”