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Theatre publisher Nick Hern Books is releasing a “joyous” personal account of the London production of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s hit “Hamilton” by its award-winning star Giles Terera.
World rights, excluding North America, were acquired by managng director Matt Applewhite from Kara Fitzpatrick at Dalzell & Beresford Ltd. Hamilton and Me: An Actor’s Journal will be released in hardback, e-book and audiobook in summer 2021.
Terara, who won the Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical for his performance as Aaron Burr, drew from a journal he kept throughout the period of preparation, rehearsal and performance, to write the book.
The publisher explained: “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.”
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.”
Miranda added: “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.”
Applewhite commented: “It’s an honour to be publishing Giles’ brilliant personal account of his time in the most extraordinary theatrical phenomenon of our age. His book is joyous and moving, searingly honest, beautifully written, and a delight for anyone interested in a new perspective on this truly groundbreaking show. After a challenging year for theatre, this really is something for us – and for readers – to look forward to in 2021!”