In summer 2021, leading theatre publisher Nick Hern Books is to release Hamilton and Me: An Actor’s Journal by Giles Terera – a personal inside account of the London production of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s smash-hit, multi-award winning Hamilton, written by the actor who won the Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical for his performance as Aaron Burr.
The book is drawn from a journal Terera kept throughout the period of preparation, rehearsal and performance. 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 world-famous musical, as seen from the inside. It is illustrated with dozens of colour photographs, many of which are previously unseen, and features a Foreword by Hamilton creator and original star Lin-Manuel Miranda.
Giles Terera, said: ‘As an actor, I’ve always kept rehearsal journals. It helps me process what I’m experiencing as well as helping me remember what I’m supposed to be doing. When I was asked to play the part of Aaron Burr in Hamilton I knew that it would be both an incredible challenge and an extraordinary journey – one I wanted to learn from as well as enjoy. So, every day, I kept notes on the work and the experience. ‘I’m so happy that an experience which has been so life-changing for me might now be of use to students, theatre-makers and anyone who loves Hamilton as much I do.’
Lin-Manuel Miranda, said: ‘This is 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.’
About the book
Hamilton and Me 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 Giles Terera reflects on experiences from his own life that he drew on to help shape his acclaimed portrayal.
Illustrated with dozens of colour photographs, many of which are shared here for the first time, and featuring an exclusive Foreword by Lin-Manuel Miranda, this book is an essential read for 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.
Giles Terera MBE is an award-winning actor, musician and writer.
He trained at Mountview Theatre School and has worked consistently at
venues such as the National Theatre, the Royal Shakespeare Company
and Shakespeare’s Globe. He is best known for originating the role of
Aaron Burr in the London production of the award-winning
musical Hamilton, for which he won the 2018 Olivier Award for Best
Actor in a Musical.
