Tickets to Hamilton the musical were on my birthday wish list last year, my wish having been granted by mum. So after hearing good things and waiting a long time, we’re finally off to see the show playing at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.
Crowne Plaza Getaway
Jason & I have decided to make an occasion of it and spend the night on Yas Island. It’s a rare getaway, just the two of us. I’m excited to have some time together without the boys in tow.
We drive down after lunch on Saturday and check into the Crowne Plaza. It has a lovely looking pool area and access to a private beach. However, being early February in the UAE, it is one of the coldest months. Today in particular it’s cold, cloudy and windy. We take a walk instead to check out the beach but no one is swimming.
We head back inside to relax in our room for a bit before getting ready to head out. It’s only about a 10 minute walk from our hotel to the Arena and we look for somewhere along the way to have a pre show dinner.
Yas Bay Waterfront
Asia Asia is always a good bet at Pier 7 in Dubai and it’s Abu Dhabi sister, on The Pier at Yas Bay Waterfront, is equally atmospheric. I’m fact, there are a number of familiar names here: Barbossa, Siddarta Lounge and Bushra by Buddha Bar.
We order a starter of chili chicken dumplings, followed by Singapore noodles with prawns and and teriyaki chicken for mains. Even though we’re sitting outside, we’re still able to get a glass of wine and we sit back to enjoy the evening.
After our meal, we head over to Etihad Arena. We have ready through the synopsis and readied ourselves for a rather non traditional musical.
Hamilton
Set in the late 18th Century, the plot follows the life of Alexander Hamilton, George Washington’s aide-de-camp. It outlines his involvement in the American Revolutionary War, his marriage to Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton, his career as a lawyer and secretary of the treasury, and his interactions with Aaron Burr which culminates in their duel at the end of Hamilton’s life (Wikipedia). It is described as a sung and rapped through biological musical. And if you don’t know all this beforehand, the whole thing could come as a bit of a surprise.
I must admit, even knowing all this beforehand and having been pre warned to “listen to the words”, it’s hard to follow. Nevertheless, it’s witty, offbeat and traditional (in parts) all at the same time. The untraditional is pulled off by an exceptional cast, clever production, excellent script and spot on choreography.
The near universal acclaim along with the sheer number of awards that it’s won, including 11 Tony Awards, attests to its quality as a production and attraction for modern day audiences.
I thoroughly enjoyed it. My only regret is not having read the book beforehand. This is no simple drama but an intricate weaving of history, music and poetry in the most untraditional sense.
Good To Know
Yas Island has much more to offer than Formula 1 and theme parks. There is a wealth of attractions here including the Yas Marina, Yas Links, the Yas Bay Waterfront and of course, Etihad Arena.
Hamilton the musical runs at Etihad Arena from 17 January to 11 February 2024.
Would I Return?
Yes.