Broadway vet excited to bring 'Hamilton' to Chicago

Almost two years ago, Miguel Cervantes heard some buzz about a new musical based on the life of Alexander Hamilton, the nation's first treasury secretary and one of its Founding Fathers.

Intrigued, he auditioned for the show's off-Broadway premiere. He didn't get the part. But he did become a fan.

"I saw it once and I was floored," said the actor, whose Broadway credits include "If/Then," "American Idiot" and "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee."

"I used to joke that I was not going to do any more theater unless Lin-Manuel Miranda ("Hamilton" writer/composer/lyricist and star) called," Cervantes said via email. "Then in May, he called."

Not really. It was Cervantes' agent calling offering him another chance to audition for the show. He landed the titular role in the Chicago production, which begins previews Sept. 27 at The PrivateBank Theatre.

Before heading to Chicago to begin rehearsals, Cervantes subbed for Miranda for a few performances.

"It was amazing to get a few shots on Broadway … to be part of that world was really phenomenal," he said. "Then we began rehearsals and began to create our own show. So I got the best of both worlds."

The production marks the first time in Chicago for Cervantes, who is bringing his wife and children with him for a run that could last a year or longer. Even more exhilarating, he said, is the opportunity this cast has to carry the "Hamilton" banner outside of New York.

"It feels like a really special thing to do," he said, "and we're so excited for folks to see it."

"Hamilton" previews begin Sept. 27 at The PrivateBank Theatre, 18 W. Monroe St., Chicago. (800) 775-2000 or broadwayinchicago.com.