Renée Elise Goldsberry, the Tony-winning star of “Hamilton,” has opened up about her journey in a new documentary titled “Satisfied.” The film captures her experience securing the role of Angelica Schuyler in the groundbreaking Broadway musical while navigating the challenges of motherhood and fertility issues.
Goldsberry began vlogging significant moments in her life a decade ago, using her iPhone to document her young son’s birthdays and the adoption of her daughter from Ethiopia in 2014. A few months later, she filmed herself after auditioning for Lin-Manuel Miranda’s workshop, “The Hamilton Mixtape.” Initially, Goldsberry, known for her roles in “Rent” and “Girls5eva,” had passed on the audition. At the time, she was a mother of two children under five and wanted to focus on parenting. However, after hearing Miranda’s song demos, she couldn’t resist.
“Satisfied,” named after the hit “Hamilton” song, intertwines Goldsberry’s home videos and iPhone footage of early “Hamilton” workshops with archival news footage and interviews, including insights from Miranda. The documentary showcases a woman striving to balance motherhood with a demanding career.
In an interview with Variety, Goldsberry and the directors of “Satisfied,” Chris Bolan and Melissa Haizlip, discussed the film ahead of its premiere at the Nantucket Film Festival. Goldsberry revealed that she hadn’t initially planned to turn her vlogs into a documentary. However, the release of the “Hamilton” film on Disney+ in 2020 made her realize the significance of her dual journey of performing in the show and raising her children.
Bolan and Haizlip emphasized the importance of balancing Goldsberry’s “Hamilton” success with her motherhood journey in the film. They aimed to ensure that her story as a mother was never overshadowed by her career achievements. Haizlip noted that combining the two stories made the film relatable and universal, while also highlighting the unique connection to “Hamilton.”
The documentary also delves into the financial aspects of acquiring rights to “Hamilton” songs and clips. Bolan mentioned that while the song “Satisfied” was expensive, the “Hamilton” universe, including Miranda, was incredibly generous. However, some content, like a four-second clip from “Rent,” had to be removed due to high costs.
Goldsberry discussed the challenges of balancing motherhood and a thriving career, acknowledging that it is a struggle but not an impossible one. She emphasized the importance of support and self-awareness in managing both roles.
The documentary “Satisfied” is a love letter to family, motherhood, Broadway, and “Hamilton.” It offers an intimate look at Goldsberry’s life, showcasing her resilience and determination to pursue her dreams while being a devoted mother.
Goldsberry’s journey in “Hamilton” is also highlighted in the film. She recalls the pressure and anxiety of performing the showstopping number “Satisfied,” which required mastering complex techniques and choreography. Despite the challenges, she found the experience rewarding and transformative.
The documentary also explores Goldsberry’s struggles with infertility and her desire to start a family. She reveals that she has suffered more than five miscarriages, including one while working on “Hamilton.” By sharing her story, Goldsberry hopes to contribute to a larger cultural conversation about the trade-offs parents, especially mothers, face between their professional goals and family life.
Goldsberry’s story is supported by her “Hamilton” co-stars, including Miranda and Ariana DeBose, who contributed personal insights and mementos to the documentary. Their support underscores the strong bond and sense of community within the “Hamilton” family.
In creating “Satisfied,” Goldsberry was mindful of protecting her children, who have already shared much of their childhood with “Hamilton.” She sought their permission to include personal moments in the film, ensuring that their experiences were respected.
“Satisfied” is a testament to Goldsberry’s resilience and dedication, offering a candid and inspiring look at her journey as a performer and mother. The documentary captures the essence of her story, highlighting the beauty and challenges of balancing a demanding career with the joys and responsibilities of motherhood.
