Hadestown, the centerpiece of a modernized story surrounding the legend of the Underworld. It’s a narrative about a man who loved too much and a woman who fell. Ruled by the King of the Undead and his wife, he cycles the seasons with just her presence. Viewers are taken on a ride that shifts the genre of Greek tragedy completely and find an understanding of these age-old myths.

Developed and directed by Rachel Chavkin, Hadestown originates from a book by Anaïs Mitchell. She wrote the songs and assisted in the music for the musical, as well. 

Currently showing in the Walter Kerr Theatre on Broadway, the main cast consists of Jordan Fisher as Orpheus, Solea Pfeiffer as Eurydice, Betty Who as Persephone, Phillip Boykin as Hades, and Lillias White as Hermes. For the show, there was also a swing actor, Yael (Yaya) Reich, the understudy for Eurydice and the Fates.

Not only does the show have a spectacular cast, Hadestown made breakthroughs, winning 8 statues in the 2019 Tony Awards. This was the first time in history that a production written and directed by women won “Best Musical.” I am grateful for the privilege of having seen it live.

Epic I

The musical is based on the myth by infamous poets, Ovid and Virgil. It surrounds the tale of a musician named Orpheus and his wife, Eurydice. 

Orpheus was said to be born or blessed by one of the Muses themselves, who are godly beings of literary and artistic expression. However, the story has been passed through oral storytelling and widely changed. He is depicted to play a harp-like instrument called a kithara. His music was so beautiful that even nature itself danced to his songs.

He encountered a nymph named Eurydice, and they fell in love at first sight. They were shortly married; however, Eurydice was bitten by a venomous snake before they could even enjoy their honeymoon. She passed away abruptly, leaving Orpheus widowed. 

Grief ridden, Orpheus set out on a journey to the Underworld to retrieve his wife from “the land of the dead.” He charmed through the defenses of Hell with his songs, putting the three-headed dog, Cerberus, to rest. Then, he journeyed to present his claim to Hades and Persephone, hoping to persuade them, as well. 

Fortunately for Orpheus, his poetic and musical blessings worked. Hades accepted his lovestruck request, but only on one condition: The man must walk without his wife, she must be behind him, and he must ascend to the land of the living without looking back once for her.

Assured at such a simple task, Orpheus did as the god wished, climbing the steps of the Underworld. But, he couldn’t hear Eurydice’s footsteps, so doubt set in… 

He began to believe the god of the undead tricked him. Just as he reached the light, he turned around. Orpheus watched his wife fade back into the Underworld. This time, no deal could save her from the Underworld.

Way Down Hadestown

Hadestown displays a modern retelling of this story. The show calls the cycle of life “the Road to Hadestown,” referencing the paths we all eventually will take leading to death. 

The story is set a few decades ago. The characters and costumes also incorporate elements suggestive of southern America, further solidifying the notion that Hadestown is situated in the southern United States during the Great Depression. This is a far cry from the original Greek tragedy, set long before any of us were here!

The characters are reminiscent of the original story. Orpheus is a poor busboy. Eurydice is a runaway looking for food and warmth. Persephone is a drunk wife wishing to run from her husband. Hades is an industry titan. Hermes, of course, is the narrator and guide for Orpheus as he seeks retribution, but also portrayed as the train’s conductor. Nevertheless, these classic characters are infused with a unique twist, enticing the audience to rediscover them once again. 

Any Way the Wind Blows

Is the play the same as the myth? Not exactly. Hadestown masterfully retells the story of Orpheus and Eurydice, captivating even those familiar with the tragic tale, keeping them on the edge of their seats.

The subplot depicting Hades and Persephone’s marriage sheds light on contemporary themes of love and jealousy, while also addressing modern challenges such as alcoholism and possessiveness. These issues, though prevalent in the past, continue to resonate today.

Orpheus and Eurydice transition from hoping that his song, pleading for spring, will bring them material wealth and comfort, to realizing that their love is the ultimate source of fulfillment. This stands in contrast to the Greek tale, where they had always been aware of the importance of their love.

It’s a Sad Song, but We’ll Sing It Anyways

There is a level of growth that happens throughout Hadestown that is not present in the centuries old myth. Viewers see the focus from Orpheus on his song. He becomes so obsessive and neglects Eurydice. This results in him not hearing her call out for him before her death. Eurydice’s devotion wavers as she makes a deal with Hades for her soul. 

The musical beautifully portrays struggles people experience within relationships that are not detailed in the original story. The show provides a more delightful tale that we can relate to and experience in new ways.

As someone who has watched numerous musicals, I cannot emphasize enough how much Hadestown stands out as a visual masterpiece. Even if you knew the entire show by heart, little details will continue to surprise you. The performance shook me to my core, and has inspired me beyond words. This is a performance you would never regret seeing.