Pebblebrook grads to wow the home crowd in ‘Hamilton’

Since its debut less than three years ago, “Hamilton” has been making waves in the theater world. Many people from all walks of life have engaged with the show, penned by and starring Lin-Manuel Miranda. The tale of Alexander Hamilton’s life goes through his youth as an immigrant from the West Indies to his rise as the right hand of George Washington.

With infectious music and lyrics, if you’ve listened to the soundtrack, it’s easy to forget that you’re basically getting a history lesson on the Revolutionary War. And afterward you begin to wish this was around when you were taking history classes in middle and high school. Miranda’s score infuses hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B and standard Broadway fare along with a truly representational, multicultural cast to bring to light this story. Creating an opportunity to reach an audience who otherwise may not have been interested in theater.

Atlanta-area enthusiasts will have the chance to see the show in person — granted you grabbed your ticket in time! “Hamilton” will run at the Fox Theatre May 22 – June 10. To make this even sweeter for Cobb residents, three Pebblebrook High School alums will be featured. Jennifer Geller and Jeffery Duffy are part of the ensemble, while Hope Endrenyi is part of the swing cast.

We caught up with them and managed to get a few questions answered about their excitement and what the audience can expect.

Jeffery Duffy

Left Pebblebrook his junior year to pursue a dancing career at The Dance Theatre of Harlem; graduated from Talent Unlimited School in New York City

Were you part of the school’s fine arts/theater programs? What made you realize this was your career dream?

My major while at Pebblebrook was in Dance with a minor in Vocal Arts. The dream is to continue creating at such a high level and sharing these stories with the people that come and watch us.

Hamilton’s initial run has been a monumental success, how does it feel to be part of the cast in front of a “home” crowd in Atlanta?

Performing in my hometown with such a successful show means the world! Some of my family members haven’t seen me perform live since middle school. It’s a proud moment!

If you could play any role, what would it be and in what production?

Stephano in William Shakespeare’s, “The Tempest.”

For someone who hasn’t seen a Broadway performance before, what should they expect?

This show is a beautiful anomaly, in that it reframes history and bends genres to show the importance of diversity. So, along with the singing and dancing expect a rapid-fire history lesson on the genesis of the American Federal System, and a coming to terms with the diversity that makes up our country.

Jeffery Duffy (Ensemble) received his BFA from the Juilliard School; 2016 Princess Grace Dance: Performance Fellowship recipient; Dance Magazine’s 25 to Watch for 2017; previously a dancer with Hubbard Street Dance Chicago.

Jennifer Geller

Graduated from Pebblebrook in 2013

Were you part of the school’s fine arts/theater programs? What made you realize this was your career dream?

I was part of the fine arts program — I was a dance major and drama minor there. I realized this was my career dream when I was in Pebblebrook’s production of “Hairspray” as a junior. That show at that school seriously changed my life. And at that point, I knew that I had to pursue this.

Hamilton’s initial run has been a monumental success, how does it feel to be part of the cast in front of a “home” crowd in Atlanta?

Amazing, surreal, wonderful ... any positive word I can think of applies here! It is such a blessing to be able to bring this unbelievable show and story to my hometown. My teachers, my mentors, my family ... they’ll all get to see me doing what I am meant to do on this Earth. My 92-year-old grandfather will also be in the audience ... and I seriously could not ask for anything more. He’s been reading Ron Chernow’s book that the musical is based on!

If you could play any role, what would it be and in what production?

In an already running production ... it would definitely be either Elphaba or Nessa in “Wicked.” No question.

For someone who hasn’t seen a Broadway performance before, what should they expect?

They should expect a mind-blowing experience — an intimate, raw, deep story accompanied by stunning technical elements (the lighting in this show is absolutely gorgeous). Everything about this show is magic; from the people in it to the people behind the scenes, to the lives that it touches. Definitely, expect to be affected.

Jennifer Geller (Ensemble) — Off Broadway: Gigantic, Tour: Bring It On The Musical, Regional: North Shore Music Theatre, Gateway, Ogunquit, Cape Playhouse.

Hope Endrenyi

Graduated from Pebblebrook in 2012

Were you part of the school’s fine arts/theater programs? What made you realize this was your career dream?

I was a part of the fine arts magnet program there. I had always been singing, dancing and acting growing up. But by the time I got to high school, it was clear this is what I wanted to do professionally. Pebblebrook allowed me to learn what a profession in the arts could look like, while still going to school.

Hamilton’s initial run has been a monumental success, how does it feel to be part of the cast in front of a “home” crowd in Atlanta?

It feels wonderful! It really is a treat when things like this come full circle. I think this show is incredibly important in today’s social and political climate. So to get to share this piece of art with my friends and family, in the town where it all started for me, is really quite special.

If you could play any role, what would it be and in what production?

Oh gosh, that’s a hard one. I don’t know if I can pick just one! But generally, the next role I’d love to play is a misunderstood antagonist of some sort. Getting inside the head of a nuanced, complicated character fascinates me.

For someone who hasn’t seen a Broadway performance before, what should they expect?

To have a great time! Whether you’re a history buff or just a music fan — this show has got something for everyone.

Hope Endrenyi (Swing) is thrilled to be making her Broadway debut. BFA in Dance — SMU, CCCEPA. “It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.”