In the Heights Returns to City Center with a New Cast and Nostalgic Optimism

Key points

• The musical runs at New York City Center through November 15, 2026, as part of the Encores! program.
• Matte Martinez, previously known for playing Michael Jackson, stars as Usnavi, while Ishmael Gonzalez receives significant praise for his comedic timing as Sonny.
• Director David Mendizábal restored the original Broadway song order, reverting changes made for the 2021 film adaptation.
• The production maintains the 2008 timeline, with Graffiti Pete tagging the bodega with '08' at the start, ignoring modern political contexts.
• Natalie Venetia Belcon, a 2025 Tony winner, joins the cast as Abuela Claudia, stepping away from her role in 'Buena Vista Social Club'.

Background

In the Heights premiered Off-Broadway in 2007 and won four Tony Awards in 2008, including Best Musical. It served as a precursor to Miranda’s later hit, Hamilton. A film adaptation was released in 2021. This revival is the first major stage return of the musical since the film, marking nearly two decades since its initial Off-Broadway run.

How outlets are covering it

Vulture critic Jackson McHenry highlights the show’s lyrical metaphors about altitude and praises the new generation of actors, particularly Ishmael Gonzalez, though he notes the book’s stop-and-start pacing. New York Theater critic Jonathan Mandell emphasizes the production’s adherence to the original script, noting that the optimism feels like an act of defiance in the current political climate. Culture Sauce critic Thom Geier praises the vocal performances but criticizes the staging as awkward and the sound design as insufficient, giving the production three out of five stars. All sources agree on the talent of the cast but differ on the effectiveness of the staging and the relevance of the 2008 setting.

Why it matters

The revival demonstrates the enduring popularity of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s work and the ability of new actors to reinterpret classic roles. It also highlights the tension between nostalgic optimism and contemporary political realities, as the show’s 2008 setting contrasts with current debates over immigration and gentrification. The production serves as a cultural touchstone, connecting past and present audiences through a shared appreciation for the musical’s themes of community and ambition.

What to watch

The run concludes on November 15, 2026. Audiences can expect to see the full cast in the final performances, including the notable return of the original Broadway song order. Future productions may continue to explore the balance between historical accuracy and modern relevance, as seen in this revival's choice to restore the 2008 timeline.