Vice President-elect Mike Pence was directly addressed by the cast of “Hamilton” after a Friday evening performance of the show. Cast member Brandon Dixon who portrays character Aaron Burr in the show urged the audience to record before saying anything on stage. “We, sir, we are the diverse America who are alarmed and anxious that your new administration will not protect us, our planet, our children, our parents or defend us and uphold our inalienable rights, sir. But we truly hope this show has inspired you to uphold our American values and work on behalf of all of us. All of us.” Dixon then said the show was performed by “a diverse group of men and women of different colors, creeds and orientations”. Check out the video of the encounter below:
This message stems from Pence’s open opposition to the LBGT community. Ranging from his support of the publication of Anti-Gay articles and his willingness to help in funding Conversion Therapy.
President-elect Donald Trump had much to say about the situation on Twitter. “Our wonderful future V.P. Mike Pence was harassed last night at the theater by the cast of Hamilton, cameras blazing. This should not happen!” He followed with another tweet saying “The Theater must always be a safe and special place. The cast of Hamilton was very rude last night to a very good man, Mike Pence. Apologize!”
Dixon responded to Trump’s tweet disagreeing with his accusation of harassment. “Conversation is not harassment sir. And I appreciate @mike_pence for stopping to listen”.
Pence took a more understanding approach saying he respected the message and he was not at all offended. “My daughter and I and her cousins really enjoyed the show. ‘Hamilton’ is just an incredible production, incredibly talented people. It was a real joy to be there,” Pence said.
The Hamilton cast is commended for standing up and being a voice for those of us who struggle to find our own.