03.14.2018

‘Hamilton’ Tickets Donated to Youth in Foster Care with Passion for Theater

By Jesse Colman, Treehouse Marketing and Communications Coordinator

Thanks to two generous donors, students in Treehouse’s Graduation Success program experienced the Tony Award-winning, hip-hop musical sensation “Hamilton” at Seattle’s Paramount Theater.

The youth who attended were handpicked because of their passion and involvement in performing arts.

“When I came home from school, my grandma told me to call Alex, my Treehouse education specialist. I thought I was in trouble, and I couldn’t figure out what I had done,” said Shayla, a high school junior in Treehouse’s Graduation Success program. “So I called Alex, and that’s when she told me that Treehouse had ‘Hamilton’ tickets for me. I screamed. I started crying. I was on the ground hyperventilating. I couldn’t even say thank you because I couldn’t breathe.”

In total, 18 tickets were distributed to Treehouse students and their education specialists.

“Hamilton” is inspired by the story of our nation’s founding fathers and has one of Broadway’s most diverse casts.

“The sets were beautiful, the costumes were gorgeous and the actors did an amazing job,” said Shayla, who wants to pursue a career in theater.

The play’s creator, Lin-Manuel Miranda, cast white historical figures—including Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson—with African American, Latino and Asian American actors. This decision has inspired young theatergoers across the country, including Treehouse youth.

“The best part for me was that Chris, my student, could envision himself playing a number of amazing characters,” said Mary Iannuzzi, Treehouse Education Specialist.

Chris told Mary that one day he would love to play the roles of Aaron Burr, Jefferson and Hamilton himself.

Interested in donating tickets for youth in foster care to attend your upcoming event or attraction? Email us at [email protected].

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