Jasmine Cephas Jones Describes Hamilton’s Opening Night as a ‘Rock Show’ (Exclusive)
It’s astonishing that Hamilton: An American Musical is nearing its 10th anniversary, and original cast member Jasmine Cephas Jones recalls all the memorable moments.
As the cast prepares for a reunion at the 2025 Tony Awards, Cephas Jones, 35, shared exclusive insights with Us Weekly about the star-studded opening night back in 2015.
“When we opened, it felt like a rock concert,” the actress recounted to Us at New York City’s Rockefeller Center on Sunday, June 8. “I remember Lin Manuel-Miranda, the writer and star, coming out, which reminded me of Michael Jackson’s Super Bowl performance.”
She added, “He just stood there, took off his glasses, and the crowd erupted. That’s how it was when Lin first appeared [to take his bow]. I felt this incredible adrenaline rush; it was so strong I nearly blacked out.”
Jasmine, daughter of late actor Ron Cephas Jones, portrayed Peggy Schuyler/Maria Reynolds in both the off-Broadway and Broadway versions of Hamilton, inspired by the life of Alexander Hamilton. She departed the production in December 2016 and is set to participate in a special “mixtape” performance at this year’s Tony Awards.
Most of the original Hamilton cast will reunite at Radio City Music Hall, including Miranda, 45, and Jasmine, along with Renée Elise Goldsberry, Leslie Odom Jr., Phillipa Soo, Daveed Diggs, Jonathan Groff, Christopher Jackson, Okieriete Onaodowan, Ariana DeBose, Anthony Ramos, and other original members.
While speaking with Us, Jasmine reflected on her life after departing from the theatrical sensation.
The excitement is palpable on Broadway during the 2025 Tony Awards as awards are being distributed to outstanding performances. The 78th annual ceremony took place at New York City’s Radio City Music Hall on Sunday, June 8, hosted by Cynthia Erivo, a Tony Award winner from 2016.
“[I would advise my younger self to] stay present,” Jasmine shared. “Enjoy the moment because even though it lasted two years, it’s going to pass by incredibly fast.”
Jasmine has previously opened up about her experience playing dual roles in the show.
“Both roles are very distinct. For Peggy, my aim was to highlight the bond between the sisters,” Jasmine mentioned during an interview with Geeks of Color in 2020. “That was easier for me since I shared a dressing room with Philippa and Renée for six months off-Broadway. We became incredibly close! Those girls have truly become my sisters. In the first act, I wanted to depict the love and support that’s crucial among women.”
She continued, “As for Maria Reynolds, I loved performing her because I had the chance to sing amazing songs and really belt it out! My portrayal of her was all about survival mode.”
Currently, Jasmine is preparing for her role in HBO’s Lanterns, hinting to Us that her character, Young Bernadette, is a “strong, tough mom.”
