I am not a fan of rap, and have little interest in US domestic history, especially the non-contemporary kind. Yet, I thought this was a work of genius. The book, the score, the lyrics are humorous and very good. Everything is there - romance, tragedy, comedy, history. Most importantly, by using rap and casting coloured actors in leading roles, it fights clichés and opens up the imagination. It entertains but it makes you think st the same time: What if there has never been slavery in the Americas? What if emperor Constantine did not convert to Christianity and thereby turn it from the religion of the underprivileged to that of the dominators? Would it have prevented the Crusades, the genocide of native Americans, the Holocaust, and other crimes? It takes a son of immigrants from minority races to write this masterpiece. No wonder it has appeal beyond the USA. Bravo Mr. Miranda! Of course, it helps that the singing and acting by the West End cast is excellent. read more