In the dazzling world of Australian theatre, Vidya Makan, an Indian woman with a passion for performance, has landed the coveted role of Eliza Hamilton in the acclaimed musical “Hamilton.” Set to grace the Sydney Lyric Theatre stage once again, this casting couldn’t be more perfect, as Vidya’s journey echoes the very essence of one of Hamilton’s pivotal lines: “I wanna be in the room where it happens.”
Hailing from an Indian background, Vidya has consistently broken barriers in a traditionally homogeneous industry, advocating for greater representation and inclusivity. Her journey is marked by a passion for storytelling and a commitment to challenging stereotypes, a mission she ardently pursues through her roles both on and off the stage.
Vidya’s advocacy extends beyond her performances; she actively engages in initiatives that empower marginalised voices and foster a more inclusive cultural landscape. In 2020, Vidya directed and produced the “I NEED YOU TO SEE ME” campaign. An original song featuring BIPoC (Black, Indigenous, people of color) and CALD (culturally and linguistically diverse) performers aged 18-25, the song was a direct call to the entertainment industry for increased visibility and diverse representation.
As she takes on the iconic role of Eliza Hamilton,” Vidya’s ascent is not only a personal triumph but a significant step towards reshaping the narrative of Australian theatre, ensuring that voices like hers are heard and celebrated on a broader stage.
Vidya, speaking with a fervour that mirrors her character’s determination, reflects on the significance of her role. “I think it’s absolutely amazing that I get to play such an influential person in a play so loved by the Australian audiences,” she shares. “I am so proud to have such a diverse story told on stage and to be part of that.”
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Her enthusiasm is palpable as she describes the momentous occasion when she learned she had secured the role. “When I called the family to tell them I got the part, everyone was busy! No one was answering my calls and I kept texting them like ‘somebody pick up the phone!'” Vidya laughs, recalling the excitement. “My mum called me back and she was like ‘are you okay, what happened?’ so I told her, ‘I got Eliza!’ and both of us started screaming on the phone.”
For Vidya, this opportunity is not just about personal achievement but about breaking barriers and paving the way for others. “I know when I was younger I’d go watch plays and theatre with my family but there was no one who looked liked me playing the roles
I get to play now,” she shares.
“I’m deeply grateful to be part of changing that narrative.”
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Her portrayal of Eliza Hamilton, a woman whose life was intertwined with one of America’s founding fathers, is more than just a role – it’s a testament to the enduring strength of women.
“Her determination, ability to love, and her loyalty are reflective of what a modern woman is,” Vidya affirms. “Her ideals, the way she carries herself are still relevant today.”
“I think Eliza is extremely relevant,” Vidya affirms. “There are so many things, so many situations – both joy and grief – that can offer healing to audiences today.”
As she prepares to step onto the Sydney Lyric Theatre stage, Vidya Makan acknowledges the significance of the moment. “I feel so grateful to be part of this show and play this
incredible woman,” she muses.
In Hamilton, the narrative of immigrants shaping history resonates deeply with Vidya, herself a daughter of immigrant parents.
‘Immigrants – we get the job done’ – as the very famous quote from Hamilton goes.
“Being a daughter of immigrant parents, it’s super relevant to me,” she laughs warmly. “This one line captures the spirit of building a new life in a new country.”
Producer, Michael Cassel notes, “every Hamilton play is different and we’ve got unfinished business here in Sydney since we first performed in 2021.” Each time, the audiences feel something new.
Reflecting on rehearsals, Vidya says “it’s hard to choose one scene from such an amazing play but I am loving getting to work with Jason (Arrow, Alexander Hamilton).”
“As a performer, it’s so surreal to (literally) be in Eliza’s shoes and embrace her thoughts, feelings and emotions and bring them out onto the stage.”
“We’re about to start rehearsing at the Sydney Lyric Theatre soon and I can’t wait to do full run-throughs of the show with the entire team. We’ve all been working so hard and we can’t wait to share it with the audiences in Sydney.”
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As audiences flock to witness the show, they will undoubtedly witness not only the talent of a rising star but the embodiment of a timeless truth: that the power of storytelling transcends boundaries of time, race, and background.
In the end, Vidya Makan’s journey to embody Eliza Hamilton is more than just a role – it’s a testament to the enduring power of dreams and the realisation that sometimes, against all odds, we find ourselves exactly where we were meant to be: in the room where it happens.
