Broadway: Behind the Curtain Rewriting the Revolution: How Hamilton Changed Broadway Forever
Jessica Rhodes, lecturer
Hamilton did more than simply retell history — it redefined how Broadway tells it. This lecture explores how Lin-Manuel Miranda fused hip-hop, traditional musical theater, and diverse casting to create a groundbreaking cultural phenomenon. This lecture traces the artistic lineage from Jonathan Larson’s Rent to Miranda’s Hamilton, examining how both artists challenged conventions and expanded who gets to see themselves on stage. From its innovative score to its bold reimagining of America’s founding story, discover how Hamilton reshaped the landscape of modern musical theater and continues to influence the industry today.
Jessica Rhodes, a Tampa native, is a theater director and educator focused on ensemble-driven storytelling and actor-centered processes. Her work explores the intersection of performance, identity, and human connection, with a particular interest in how theater creates meaning and community in both traditional and contemporary contexts.
With a background as a New York City performer and training from Marymount Manhattan College (BFA Acting), she began her performing career at an early age with her first professional credit in The Florida Orchestra’s production of The Music Man at age 8. Over the years, she has appeared on the hit Netflix Television series The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt and played the role of Maureen Johnson in The Peregrine Theatre’s production of RENT in Provincetown, Massachusetts. She also went through all four levels at The Upright Citizen’s Brigade Theatre and was invited to join the indie improv team, “We Are Yes” which performed in top comedy clubs around the NYC area. She has served as a theater director for several productions, including Little Women, Pippin, Matilda, Disney’s The Aristocats and It’s A Wonderful Life. As director, she emphasizes collaboration, emotional authenticity, and the creation of safe, expressive environments where performers can take risks and discover their voice.
Enrich your experience of the arts by joining Friends of Artis—Naples and/or Leadership Circle. You’ll enjoy private previews of new exhibitions, invitations to exclusive social events, discounts and more.
Artis—Naples is Southwest Florida’s leading cultural resource, thanks to the generous support of loyal donors like you. Help us continue to provide art and educational opportunities for all ages.
Whether you’re enjoying our cultural campus during our free Community Days, making new friends in a Lifelong Learning class, or attending an off-campus music performance, we hope to see you soon.
