Back in the room where it happens — Broadway’s Aaron Burr hits the West End

By the Editorial Team · Saturday, July 4, 2026

Leslie Odom Jr. has returned to play Aaron Burr in the West End production of *Hamilton* at London's Victoria Palace Theatre for a two-month run. His revisiting of the role brings new depth to the character amid ongoing reflections on the historical complexities of the Founding Fathers, while the show continues to engage audiences with its fresh perspective on American history.

Leslie Odom Jr., acclaimed for his Tony Award-winning portrayal of Aaron Burr in the Broadway hit *Hamilton*, has returned to the role for a two-month engagement at the Victoria Palace Theatre in London. The production, which first opened in the West End in 2017, continues to captivate audiences with its innovative retelling of the American Founding Fathers' story through hip-hop and diverse casting.

Odom’s journey with *Hamilton* began nearly a decade ago on Broadway, where his performance earned him the Tony for Best Actor in a Musical, standing out even against the creator and star Lin-Manuel Miranda. The role of Aaron Burr—a complex figure who was vice president to Thomas Jefferson and famously rival to Alexander Hamilton—showcases Odom’s vocal range, moving fluidly between rap, R&B, and traditional show tunes. His rendition of “The Room Where It Happens” remains a highlight of the production, which has attracted a broad audience that includes notable figures such as former President Barack Obama and celebrities across the entertainment spectrum.

Reflecting on the return to the role, Odom noted the differences between his initial run and his current experience. With nearly ten years since his debut, including family milestones such as fatherhood, the actor described the reprise as both a challenging and rewarding artistic undertaking. He acknowledged the demands of relearning new choreography and adapting to a refined production, as well as the emotional complexity of reconnecting with the character amid personal difficulties.

The actor’s interpretation grapples with Burr’s moral ambiguities, including the historical realities of both Burr and Hamilton as slave owners, a factor that adds depth to the performance. Odom emphasized that *Hamilton* does not aim to deliver a straightforward moral judgment but rather invites audiences to engage with the intricacies of these historical figures and the revolutionary era they inhabited.

Odom’s association with *Hamilton* has expanded his career beyond the stage. He won a Grammy for the cast recording and has been nominated for Emmy and Academy Awards, notably for his portrayal of singer Sam Cooke in *One Night in Miami*. His screen work also includes roles in *Harriet* and *The Many Saints of Newark*, along with producing and starring in *Purlie Victorious*, for which he earned further Tony nods in 2024.

Currently residing in London while performing, Odom will be joined by his wife, actress Nicolette Robinson, and their two children during the run. Despite the global challenges currently facing the United States, Odom expressed that *Hamilton* remains a poignant reminder of the nation’s foundational ideals and the ongoing nature of revolution and change.

*Hamilton* will continue its West End run at the Victoria Palace Theatre in London through September 5, 2024.

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