By Genna Cottingham '23
As a native-born New Yorker and son of Puerto Rican immigrants, Lin-Manuel Miranda is the perfect example of a living historical figure. Lin was born in Washington Heights on January 16th, 1980, and his father, Luis A. Miranda Jr., was born in Vega Alta, Puerto Rico. His heritage and identity have shaped many of his works. Lin gained early recognition for making and starring in the hit Broadway musical and movie In the Heights, which is about Lin’s experience growing up in his Hispanic community in Upper Manhattan.
Lin-Manuel Miranda is one of the most prolific and well-known figures in contemporary theater. He is the creator and star of not one, but two hit Broadway musicals! He has won a grand total of 15 Tony Awards for the musicals In the Heights and Hamilton, which is arguably his most popular work. Lin also managed to land himself a role in the movie Mary Poppins Returns and wrote a few songs in the animated Disney movie Moana. In addition to his Tony Awards, Miranda has received other prestigious prizes including an Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series, and three Grammy Awards for Moana, Hamilton, and In the Heights!
Outside of his work in theater, Miranda has worked with several charities, from contributing to natural disaster relief in Puerto Rico to supporting the Covid-19 Emergency Fund. After Hurricane Maria left Puerto Rico in destruction in July 2018, Lin sprang into action to boost the art programs in the U.S. territory. He also created a multi-million dollar fund to support various dance schools and theater companies across the country. Furthermore, the Hamilton star performed an impromptu concert in March for Broadway Cares COVID-19 Emergency Assistance Fund. Since then, the charity has grossed over $6.8 million dollars from 18,000+ donors.
Lin’s roots in Washington Heights and his parents’ immigration from Puerto Rico shaped both his artistic work and his passion for helping others while having a little fun along the way. Through his support of hundreds of charities and foundations, and the numerous roles he has played in all types of the dramatic arts, Lin-Manuel Mirdanda has definitely left his mark on history. And he’s only forty!
Editors: Cecilia Fiorindo, Ms. Brilliant.
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Lin-Manuel Miranda is a true inspiration to Latinos. Hamilton is by far my favorite Broadway show!