Mandy Gonzalez Revitalizes Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Songbook with Dynamic Performances
A Night to Remember: Mandy Gonzalez Illuminates the Stage with a Tribute to Lin-Manuel Miranda in Boston
Mandy Gonzalez Opens the Evening with Enthralling Performance
Acclaimed Broadway vocalist Mandy Gonzalez took center stage at Symphony Hall, accompanied by the Boston Pops under the baton of Keith Lockhart, to present “Everything I Know: Mandy Gonzalez Sings Lin-Manuel Miranda.” The concert celebrated the rich tapestry of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s songbook, filled with melodies, stories, and riveting performances.
A Journey Rooted in Artistic Collaboration
Mandy Gonzalez’s connection to Miranda began in 2005 during auditions for In the Heights. Her camaraderie with Miranda and the original creative team bloomed into a lasting friendship that shined throughout the evening’s intimate performances. Gonzalez began with the uplifting “Everything I Know-verture,” a dynamic orchestral piece that seamlessly wove in well-loved themes from Miranda’s works.
Celebrating Bicultural Identity through Song
The song “Spanish Me, English Me” from Sesame Street allowed Gonzalez to delve into her personal narrative. Reflecting on her bicultural heritage, she fondly reminisced the influence of artists like Vikki Carr. Despite industry pressures to change her name, Gonzalez proudly declared her identity, embodying Miranda’s empowering lyrics.
Revisiting Iconic Broadway Moments
Highlighting her history with In the Heights, Gonzalez performed “Breathe,” capturing the struggles of self-doubt akin to her Broadway journey. She also shared tales from her turbulent experience in the 2002 Dance of the Vampires, bringing humor and vulnerability to the performance.
A Musical Tribute to Healing and Solidarity
With “Almost like Praying,” Gonzalez honored Miranda’s dedication to Puerto Rico post-Hurricane Maria. The piece, described as a love letter to his heritage, was charged with meaning, demonstrating art’s capacity for healing.
Bringing Miranda’s Lesser-Known Works to Life
Gonzalez showcased “One School” from Miranda’s 21 Chump Street and invited Philippe Arroyo to join as a guest artist. Their playful exchange delighted the audience, seamlessly blending humor with melodic storytelling.
Brilliant Performances of Hamilton Classics
A former Angelica Schuyler replacement in Hamilton, Gonzalez brought fierce energy to “Satisfied,” engaging the audience in a resonant sing-along. The powerful portrayal encapsulated the essence of her Broadway lineage.
International Flair with a Touch of Disney Magic
The post-intermission segment featured an electric rendition of “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” from Disney’s Encanto, complete with multilingual segments that emphasized its worldwide acclaim, followed by a soulful presentation of “Dos Oruguitas,” which echoed her own family’s enduring love story.
Memorable Closing and Encore
Ending on a high note, Gonzalez performed “Fearless” from her album, joined by the harmonious Boston Children’s Chorus. The final song celebrated resilience and unity, mirroring a movement she holds dear. The heartfelt performance concluded with an overwhelming ovation as the audience celebrated an unforgettable night of music and memory.
Through this captivating journey across Lin-Manuel Miranda’s musical landscape, Mandy Gonzalez delivered a fervent and personal homage that resonated deeply, offering both nostalgia and hope in her powerful delivery.
