Hadestown

Why Watch Hadestown

Directed by Tony nominee Rachel Chavkin, Hadestown is a lyrically and musically intense rendition of the renowned Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. The musical has been immensely praised for its incredible array of songs that rival some of the best musicals on the West End and Broadway stage. Although written in 2006, is astonishingly relevant today. From a song that talks about building walls to protect one’s freedom to climate change, 2019 audiences can completely relate to the production. Anais Mitchell, whose album Hadestown serves as the inspiration for the musical. Originally just a theater project that served as a touring production performed in schools, it has transformed into one of the biggest musicals to appear on stage.

The musical is set in a more modern environment than the original story, with rock, soul and jazz forming the dominant genres of music. The decision to forgo an orchestra, and instead have a bar band playing jazz was a bold move and combined with the air choreography by David Neumann, it works astonishingly well. Rachel Chavkin’s casting choices are spectacular, with each of the actors seamlessly stepping into the roles. Amber Gray portrays the tipsy Persephone magnificently, while Patrick Page’s take on Hades with an unnervingly deep and menacing voice seems very much like a special effect. Following sell-out runs in the UK, Hadestown is all set to make its much-awaited Broadway debut.

The Story

It is the middle of summer and the perfect time for songwriter Orpheus to find inspiration and compose. His lover, Eurydice is his muse, and they spend their time in each others’ company. As winter approaches, however, reality hits them. They begin to realize that it is not possible to survive on just songs and that they will need to find an alternative means of income. Hadestown is an industrial region with lucrative opportunities, and Eurydice is lured to the depths of this treacherous town. When Orpheus realizes what has happened, he decides to journey through the underworld, where his trust is put to the final test. Will Orpheus cross each hurdle and rescue Eurydice from the clutches of Hades?

Good for

Fans of Dramas | Lovers of Greek Mythology