Bushara's Blog | A Night to Remember: Hamilton at London Victoria
Last week, thanks to CSSC, I had the incredible opportunity to attend my first theatre performance with two of my colleagues the award-winning musical Hamilton at London’s Victoria Palace Theatre. We dressed up for the evening I was wearing 70’s style flares which I will not be wearing again whilst trying to get the train in London.
To say it was unforgettable would be an understatement. Not only was the show incredible but the music, storytelling, and emotion, the experience reminded me just how powerful and accessible the arts can be. From the moment I walked into the theatre, there was a buzz of excitement and anticipation. When the lights dimmed and the first notes of “Alexander Hamilton” filled the room, I knew I was in for something special. The show was emotional, humorous, and uplifting experience and the casting was superb as each really lived the moment. The singing was phenomenal, and I have been humming the tunes since. Maybe i need to think about a career in theatre.
A Night to Remember — Thanks to CSSC
As a CSSC member, I was able to access discounted tickets for Hamilton, but CSSC has lots of other show tickets available too. CSSC made the process seamless and affordable. Through CSSC membership I purchased my ticket for £35.00 this was less than 50% of the face value. The savings encouraged me to try something new and I loved it.
Organisations like CSSC really do make theatre more accessible and inclusive. By providing accessible pricing and promoting cultural engagement, they break down barriers and open doors. My experience wouldn’t have been possible without it — and now I can’t wait for the next show.
Ethnic Minorities Should Embrace Theatre
Theatre has long been viewed by some as inaccessible or elitist. For ethnic minorities, the idea of attending a West End show can feel unfamiliar, if not intimidating. But the truth is, theatre is for everyone. It’s a space for stories your stories, excitement, amusement and your thoughts and the feelings to take away with you from the experience.
Shows like Hamilton prove that theatre can reflect the diverse, vibrant world we live in. It can uplift unheard voices, challenge the status quo, and inspire new generations of artists and audiences alike. I have not come across an Asian person from my friends or family who that has prioritised theatre or that has experienced theatre. Maybe the odd Panto and this could be because of a lack of interest or appeal or due to a lack of representation. My nephew who is employed by the MOD attended the Jackie Palmer stage school from the age of 8 years old (Which has also been attended by the likes of James Corden and Araon Taylor Johnson) and has performed in various TV shows and movies something he still enjoys part time.
I can assure you theatre is something that must be experienced. The diverse cast, the hip-hop infused soundtrack, the storytelling it was bold, fresh, and unapologetically different. It celebrated history in a way that was relevant, raw, and empowering. Watching performers who were from a diverse background take centre stage was emotional. Representation matters, and in Hamilton, it wasn’t just present — it was celebrated.
Final Thoughts
So grab that CSSC offer, bring a friend and go see something that moves you. I am already looking to book the Lion King for my next experience. Please get in touch bushra.ali@cssc.co.uk if you would like to know more. You might just find a piece of yourself on that stage.