From the distinct and identifiable opening chords to Eliza’s gasp in the finale, the “Hamilton” production at George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Theater in Salt Lake City (131 Main St.) surpasses my expectations every single time. This show was no exception. It was my fourth time seeing “Hamilton” and I’d see it again tomorrow. 

For anyone who’s been living in a cave for the last nine years, “Hamilton” is the story of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton and his adversarial relationship with Aaron Burr. As a man of opinions and action, Hamilton can’t understand Burr’s hesitancy to take a stand. The show is also about Hamilton’s marriage, time spent working with George Washington and, of course, his death at the hands of Burr. 

What sets this musical apart from other Broadway productions is the diverse cast, the unique focus on American history, the innovative score and the verbal choreography. There are so many layers to the songs, you have to have the score memorized to fully appreciate the depth and brilliance of the lyrics.

I found it interesting that understudies played two lead roles on media night with Alex Nicholson stepping into the title role and Josh Marin portraying Burr. I felt both leads started a little weak in the opening number “Alexander Hamilton” but Nicholson quickly got up to speed. He was a joy to watch because it looked like he was having fun. 

Marin was slower to grab the audience but by the end of the first act, he seemed to step into his power with “Wait For It.” His song, “Dear Theodosia” was a beautiful rendition of a father, glowing with love for his new daughter. 

The Schuyler Sisters played by Kendyl Sayuri Yokoyama (Eliza), Lencia Kebede (Angelica) and Milika Cheree (Peggy) shone in “The Schuyler Sisters” and “Helpless.” “Satisfied,” with its incredible staging, choreography and lyrics was a highlight for Kebede who demonstrated regret for missed opportunities. 

Kameron Richardson portrayed George Washington and while he didn’t command the stage like previous Washington actors, his voice was strong in songs like “Right Hand Man” and “One Last Time” as he led the colonies through the Revolution and into a new country. 

Everyone’s favorite side character, King George III, was played by Paul Louis Lessard with appropriate aristocratic snobbery. Even as the only person on stage, he was riveting (and hilarious) to watch in his “You’ll Be Back” admonitions. 

Simon Longnight (Marquis de Lafayette/Thomas Jefferson) was flamboyant and fun, Eddie Ortega (Hercules Mulligan/James Madison) was the perfect sidekick for Jefferson, and Lucas Hinds Babcock (John Laurens/Philip Hamilton) completed the trio of dual-role actors who all did a great job in their performances.

The second act introduces several tragedies. Hamilton’s affair with Maria Reynolds (Cheree) is exposed. His son Philip Schuyler (Terrance Martin) is shot in a duel and his marriage with Eliza is strained, to put it mildly. Hamilton’s duet with Eliza in “It’s Quiet Uptown” brought most of the audience to tears. 

There did seem to be a problem with the music, which often overpowered the performers, but overall the production was top-notch. 

“Hamilton” has won 11 Tony Awards and was given an unprecedented special citation from the Kennedy Center Honors. Written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, directed by Thomas Kail and choreographed by Andy Blankenbuehler the show’s message will resonate for generations. 

“Hamilton” runs through September 1 at Eccles Theater.