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Hamilton and Me: An Actor's Journal

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Hamilton and Me: An Actor's Journal

By: Giles Terera
Narrated by: Giles Terera
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"Stand. Breathe. Look. Try to empty my mind. Somehow, for some reason, I have been brought to this place to tell this story, now. So tell it. That’s all".

When Lin-Manuel Miranda’s groundbreaking musical Hamilton opened in London’s West End in December 2017, it was as huge a hit as it had been in its original production off - and on Broadway. Lauded by critics and audiences alike, the show would go on to win a record-equalling seven Olivier Awards - including Best Actor in a Musical for Giles Terera, for his portrayal of Aaron Burr.

For Terera, though, his journey as Burr had begun more than a year earlier, with his first audition in New York, and continuing through extensive research and preparation, intense rehearsals, previews and finally opening night itself. Throughout this time he kept a journal, recording his experiences of the production and his process of creating his award-winning performance. This audiobook, Hamilton and Me, is that journal.

It offers an honest, intimate and thrilling look at everything involved in opening a once-in-a-generation production - the triumphs, breakthroughs, and doubts, the camaraderie of the rehearsal room and the moments of quiet backstage contemplation - as well as a fascinating, in-depth exploration of now-iconic songs and moments from the musical, as seen from the inside. It is also deeply personal, as Terera reflects on experiences from his own life that he drew on to help shape his acclaimed portrayal.

Featuring an exclusive Foreword by Lin-Manuel Miranda, this audiobook is an essential listenfor all fans of Hamilton - offering fresh, first-hand insights into the music and characters they love and know so well - as well as for aspiring and current performers, students, and anyone who wants to discover what it really felt like to be in the room where it happened.

©2021 Nick Hern Books (P)2021 Nick Hern Books
Acting & Auditioning Entertainment & Celebrities Entertainment & Performing Arts Celebrity Theatre Entertainment New York
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Critic reviews

"One of the most joyous and clear-eyed approaches to playing a character that I have ever read...I am so grateful Giles took notes on his process and turned them into this book. I was already in awe of his performance; now I’m in awe of his humanity and attention to detail and willingness to share the hard work and magic that goes into it". (Lin-Manuel Miranda, from his Foreword)

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I wish I could personally reach out to Giles and thank him for releasing his journal here. This gives a human look at the goings on backstage at the world's most significant theatrical show in a very long time, and is carried along on a wave of Giles' warmth and humble delivery. I'd recommend it to anyone - be they Hamilton fans or just curious of the goings on behind the scenes.

An excellent insight

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As an actor one needs to learn how to love suffering in these day to day environments. That is what I believe at least. This is very much it from Giles.

A resurrection for my love of acting

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A beautiful tapestry of the process of creation. I was transported into the different places and settings and walked alongside the writer’s head, heart and soul as he made this transformation and incarnation into Aaron Burr. It is quite a story - rich, intricate, intimate, layered, textured, honest. It moved me and inspired me. I can’t wait to watch the show again. I will definitely view it with different eyes. It also prompted me to look at different aspects of my life and the decisions I’ve made. Thank you Giles. I loved it!

A look into the Rooms Where it Happened

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Thank you for allowing us the permission to peak into your process. Your transparency has really helped me realise that I am not the only one who feels a mysterious connection to these characters and will endeavour to honour them should I ever be granted the chance.

Thank you Giles.

Not throwing away my shot!

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There’s so much to love in this book. Giles let’s you know him, opens up his feelings and fears and gives insight into what being part of the juggernaut that is Hamilton is like. Great for any Ham-fan but also for musical theatre fans and for anyone interested in the artistic process. Lots of interesting insight into the way Hamilton is crafted and the way an actor crafts their performance. Giles Terera’s voice is easy to listen to, warm and real. I’ve just finished it and I’m off to listen again.

Perfect

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