96,000

Lin-Manuel Miranda's song "96,000" from the musical *In the Heights* captures the dreams, aspirations, and realities of a tight-knit community in Washington Heights, New York City. The song revolves around the hypothetical scenario of winning $96,000 in the lottery, sparking a lively discussion among the characters about what they would do with the money. Each character's response reveals their personal dreams, struggles, and the socio-economic challenges they face.

Benny dreams of using the money to elevate his status, envisioning himself as a successful businessman, while Usnavi, the protagonist, sees it as a means to escape financial ruin and support his loved ones. The song cleverly uses humor and cultural references, such as comparing Benny's ambitions to Donald Trump and Frodo from *The Lord of the Rings*, to highlight the characters' aspirations and the gap between their dreams and reality. The playful banter and competitive spirit among the characters underscore the community's resilience and camaraderie.

Sonny's verse takes a more socially conscious turn, addressing issues like gentrification, education, and systemic racism. His vision of using the money to improve the neighborhood and fight social injustices reflects the broader struggles of marginalized communities. Vanessa, on the other hand, sees the money as a ticket to freedom, dreaming of leaving the barrio for a better life downtown. The song's energetic and hopeful tone, combined with its poignant lyrics, encapsulates the characters' desires for a better future while acknowledging the harsh realities they face.

"96,000" is a vibrant and thought-provoking exploration of dreams, community, and the socio-economic challenges that shape the lives of the characters in *In the Heights*. It highlights the power of hope and the importance of community support in the face of adversity.