Published: 6 May 2016
Playwright/Lyricist/Composer: Anaïs Mitchell
The actors from the original Broadway cast of Hadestown faced the challenge of bringing Anaïs Mitchell's 2010 folk album to the stage in 2019. But their hard work paid off when the harmony-filled production received a flurry of Tony Award nominations, and amassed an impressive number of other wins.
Notably, Broadway veteran André De Shields played the critical role of Hermes, getting not just mouth or written praise but also an award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical.
Originally labeled a "folk opera," Anaïs Mitchell's album hit the music scene in 2010. Mitchell herself took on the role of Eurydice, with Bon Iver's Justin Vernon as Orpheus and Ani DiFranco as Persephone, among other talented musicians.
Replicating the work to the stage was no small feat, with Mitchell penning all the songs and the book for the musical. Following its off-Broadway debut in 2016 at the New York Theatre Workshop, the production moved to Broadway in March 2019.
This time, the stellar cast included De Shields, Reeve Carney as Orpheus, Eva Noblezada as Eurydice, Patrick Page as Hades, and Amber Gray as Persephone. The Original Broadway Cast Recording, released in July 2019, did well enough to hit number four on Billboard's independent albums chart.
The Hadestown narrative tells a reimagined version of the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. In this story, Eurydice seeks refuge from poverty and cold by venturing into a bleak industrialized underworld, where her musician lover Orpheus takes on on a daring rescue mission.
The musical's journey began in 2006 with its premiere in Barre, Vermont, followed by a production in Vergennes, Vermont, the same year and a tour across Vermont and Massachusetts in 2007. Uncertain about its future, Mitchell transformed the production into a concept album released in 2010.
In 2012, he joined expert efforts with director Rachel Chavkin to reinvent the stage production, adding new songs and dialogue. The revamped musical premiered off-Broadway at the New York Theatre Workshop in May 2016 and ran through July 31. After successful runs in Edmonton and London, the show moved to Broadway in 2019.
Upon its Broadway debut, Hadestown garnered widespread critical acclaim, earning numerous awards and nominations. At the 73rd Tony Awards, the musical received 14 nominations, the most of the evening, and secured eight wins, including the coveted Best Musical and Best Original Score.
In Act I, the story unfolds with Hermes introducing the characters and the harsh setting. Orpheus, a struggling musician, proposes to Eurydice, promising to bring spring back with his song.
Despite doubts, Eurydice falls in love. Meanwhile, Hades tempts her with the promise of security in Hadestown. Eurydice, desperate, follows him, leaving Orpheus behind. Determined to rescue her, Orpheus embarks on a journey, defying Hades' oppressive rule.
Act II sees Eurydice regretting her decision in Hadestown as Orpheus arrives to save her. However, Hades reveals her choice, leading to a confrontation. Orpheus, undeterred, sings his love for Eurydice, sparking hope among the workers.
Persephone pleads with Hades for their freedom, but he imposes a cruel condition: Orpheus must lead Eurydice out without looking back. In a moment of doubt, Orpheus turns, sealing Eurydice's fate.
The musical concludes with Hermes reflecting on the tragedy as the story resets. The cast raises a cup in honor of Orpheus, symbolizing both the hope and despair woven into their tale.
Hadestown is on show at venues around the globe almost every other day, giving people the chance to witness its mesmerizing blend of myth and melody as it unfolds on stage.
For instance, at the Walter Kerr Theatre in New York, the show is scheduled for May 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 7th, 9th, 14th, 16th, 17th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 24th, 25th, 26th, and 28th. There are plenty of opportunities to experience the magic of this musical in the never-sleeping city.
Likewise, it will be performed at the historic Shubert Theater in New Haven on May 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 11th, and 18th. Nestled in the charming town of New Haven, this venue offers a unique setting to enjoy the musical's spellbinding performances.
For those across the pond, the Lyric Theatre in London, will welcome audiences to join the journey on May 1st, 2nd, 4th, 9th, 11th, 16th, 17th, 18th, 22nd, 23rd, 25th, and 28th. On the back of its rich theatrical history, London provides the perfect backdrop for the timeless tale of love and redemption.
Across the Atlantic, the Belk Theatre at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center in Charlotte will host Hadestown on May 7th, 8th, and 9th.
Also, at the Ed Mirvish Theatre in Toronto, the musical will be live on stage from May 15th to the 26th. In the heart of Toronto's bustling theater district, this venue provides the perfect setting to witness the epic tale unfold.
If you are looking for the most affordable way to attend a Hadestwon musical, you are in luck. With some of the lowest seat prices in the entertainment events market, we are here to assist.
First off, it is important to secure your tickets early due to high demand, and to avoid rush-hour decisions that could put a hole in your pocket. Keep visiting TicketX for updates and grab the best deals. Act fast; tickets may sell out soon. Even if sold out, find the cheapest Hadestown tickets with a consistent 20% commission fee.
A user-friendly interface helps you interact with the platform in the easiest way possible. Without lags and unnecessary ads, TicketX helps you find and get tickets to your favorite concerts hassle-free. Also, with flexible payment integration, it caters to card, transfer, or direct deposit users.
What’s more, the gateway provides live seat viewing features, one that allows you to make the best choice of seats at the venue you intend to visit. Whether you want front-row access, middle positions, or back-end relaxation, it helps you get your preferred position and sightlines.
To get more insights into how to secure the cheapest possible seats to the shows of your favorite artists, whether Luke Combs, Tyler Childers, Hozier, or Twenty-One Pilots, you can get actionable information from actionable pieces available only on TicketX Magazine.
Don't miss out on the cheapest event tickets and amazing discount coupons – subscribe to our mailing list now!
By subscribing, you agree to the terms of use and the our privacy policy.