Phillipa Soo Reflects on Hamilton’s 10th Anniversary
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Phillipa Soo, renowned for her Tony-nominated portrayal of Eliza in Broadway’s hit musical Hamilton, recently shared her thoughts exclusively with PEOPLE on the milestone 10th anniversary of the show. Soo, who has partnered with Crayola for their Creativity Week event, opened up about the impact of her time on stage, both as a performer and as a person.
Soo revealed that her journey into the world of performance began in her early years and eventually led her to the stage of Hamilton. The actress, now 34, highlighted the joy she found in overcoming stage fright as a child, which later paved the way for a fulfilling career in the arts. She shared her insights on creativity and the transformative power of embracing one’s fears to unlock true artistic expression.
Having played pivotal roles in productions like Amélie and Doctor Odyssey, Soo reminisced about her time as Eliza Schuyler Hamilton, recounting fond memories of the rehearsal process and the camaraderie among the cast. She fondly recalled the moments backstage that held a special place in her heart, emphasising the beauty of collaboration and the creation of something greater than oneself in the world of theatre.
Reflecting on the enduring success of Hamilton, Soo expressed her gratitude for being able to connect with the real-life stories of historical figures through her role. She shared how embodying Eliza’s character on stage elicited profound emotional responses within her and hoped that the same sentiment resonated with audiences, offering a unique perspective on the complexities of human experiences.
As Crayola Creativity Week encourages children to explore their creative instincts, Soo drew parallels between the innovative spirit of the musical and the importance of nurturing ideas from inception to fruition. She lauded the impact of fostering creativity early on and underscored the significance of daring to dream, drawing a parallel between the genesis of groundbreaking works like Hamilton and the power of imagination.
Looking back on her journey with Hamilton, Soo expressed awe at the evolution of her younger self, noting the blend of change and continuity in her personal growth. She embraced a newfound sense of curiosity and a willingness to venture beyond her comfort zone, eager to embrace new challenges and push the boundaries of her creative pursuits.
Throughout the conversation, Soo’s reflections offered an intimate glimpse into her artistic evolution, from conquering stage fright as a child to embodying iconic characters on Broadway stages. Her enduring passion for storytelling and the transformative nature of performance underscored the profound impact of Hamilton on her career and personal growth, inspiring audiences to embrace their creative potential with courage and conviction.