Hundreds Line Up for Second Round Of Hamilton Tickets
CHICAGO (CBS) -- The hip hop musical sensation "Hamilton" began its run in Chicago on Tuesday, the same day a new block of tickets went on sale.
There has been a lot of competition for tickets, and it's not just theater goers lining up.
Dozens arrived before dawn to get their place in line before the Private Bank box office opened at 10 a.m.
"We got here at 4 a.m., a little early but it's well worth it," said Jose Morena of Portage, Ind. He and
his daughter brought their chairs and tents to be one of the first to buy a second block of tickets that were released today.
"I'm so excited I'm shaking. I got tickets to the April 8th show. I've got my countdown clock on my phone already," said Elizabeth Morena, 19.
The addition of 26 weeks of Hamilton is for performances through September 17, 2017.
Janice Miller of Naperville is another early riser.
"We left at 4 and drove in and arrived at 5:15. This is our first experience doing this, it's been fun. I love the music so I'm hooked," said Miller.
Bonnie Klein of Arlington Heights was one of hundreds who stood in line around the block that stretched down Dearborn.
"I'm so excited, I'm next to get tickets."
Lynn Roman got in line around 7 a.m. She says she's a new "Hamilton" fan.
"My daughter asked me to get tickets for her. I didn't expect all these people, it's probably one of the crazier things I've done. This and waiting in line for Barry Manilow," she laughed.
"I've been a fan of Lin Manuel since The Heights. I was working when the first round were offered so I'm thrilled to be able to get tickets this time around," said Anthony Galvon, Chicago.
The first preview performance of Hamilton is tonight at The Private Bank Theater.
"Hamilton" fans can also take advantage of a day-of-show online lottery; 44 tickets priced at $10 each will be available for each performance.
"Hamilton" is the story of one of America's founding fathers, Alexander Hamilton. The musical is about America then, told by Americans now, and mixes R&B, hip-hop and other musical genres.