'Hamilton' cast member issues challenge to VP-elect Mike Pence

NEW YORK — The actor playing Aaron Burr in the Broadway hit “Hamilton” issued a challenge Friday night to Vice-President-elect Mike Pence.

It wasn’t for a duel, but the man playing the role of the nation’s third vice-president did direct some verbal shots toward Pence after the curtain call.

Actor Brandon Victor Dixon let Pence know that Hamilton’s multiracial, multicultural cast had some concerns about the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump.

"We, sir, are the diverse America who are alarmed and anxious that your new administration will not protect us, our planet, our children, our parents, or defend us and uphold our inalienable rights," The Associated Pressquoted Dixon. "We truly hope this show has inspired you to uphold our American values and work on behalf of all of us. All of us."

Dixon, who urged the audience not to boo Pence, said the show was performed by "a diverse group of men, women of different colors, creeds and orientations," CNN reported.

Pence had left his seat before Dixon finished his message. But a show spokesman told the AP that Pence stood in the hallway outside the entrance to the auditorium and heard the full remarks.

The vice president-elect's appearance at the Richard Rodgers Theatre in New York triggered both cheers and boos when he slipped into row F in the mezzanine.

"Hamilton," has won 11 Tony Awards and has been praised for depicting the nation’s early years with a multicultural cast.  Lin-Manuel Miranda wrote the musical's book, music and lyrics, which blend pop ballads with gospel music and R&B scores.

Pence is in New York with Trump as the team works on presidential transition efforts.

Trump responded to the incident Saturday morning on Twitter, where he called on the cast of "Hamilton" to apologize for their "very rude" treatment of Pence.

Dixon did not waver, standing by his actions as he replied to Trump on Twitter.

Cox Media Group