Mythic Magic: Journey to the Spectacular Underworld of 'Hadestown'

Entering Hadestown, I was met with a experience I rarely get to enjoy: a production that I could absorb without preconceptions. With no prior knowledge of the soundtrack and only a faded memory of the mythological tale it’s based on, I found myself utterly captivated by the unfolding production. Hadestown comes to life through a tapestry of detailed storytelling and emotional depth, all set to a score that holds the audience in rapt attention. The near-magical lighting and a remarkably talented cast distinguish this production, showcasing the distinctive allure and profound impact of live theater at its finest.

Hadestown intertwines the ancient Greek myths of Orpheus and Eurydice, and Hades and Persephone, into a breathtaking narrative that — while it is not explicitly set in New Orleans — evokes the French Quarter during the Depression era. The story follows Orpheus, a hopeful and talented musician, who falls deeply in love with Eurydice, a young woman struggling to survive in a world where hope and food is scarce. Seeking a better life, Eurydice is tempted by the promise of security in the underworld, ruled by Hades, the formidable god of the dead, and his wife, Persephone, who divides her time between the worlds above and below.

The tale navigates through themes of love, trust and the power of art to challenge fate, as Orpheus embarks on a perilous journey to retrieve Eurydice from the clutches of Hades, armed with nothing but his music and undying love. The vibrant score, blending folk, jazz and blues, underscores a journey that is as emotionally resonant as it is timeless, inviting the audience to reflect on the cycles of life, love and the choices that define us.

The set design’s fantastic use of vertical space immediately draws the audience into the story, enhanced by the visible and vibrant presence of the orchestra — a core element that enriches the show’s atmosphere.

The incredible lighting design crosses multiple theatrical disciplines embedding itself as props, costumes and set design, imbuing the show with a magical quality. The use of light, shadows and silhouettes, combined with the set’s verticality, creates a sense of depth and movement that is both visually stunning and emotionally evocative.

Sevon Askew, stepping into Hermes’ shoes for the opening night’s performance, channels a young Christopher Jackson’s charisma, pulling the audience into the narrative with a performance that tugs at the heartstrings while guiding the story with masterful ease. He guides the audience through the tale with charisma and a touch of mischief.

J. Antonio Rodriguez’s Orpheus is both endearing and astonishing; he begins as adorkable but transforms into something awe-inspiring the moment he starts to sing, revealing a vocal talent that mesmerizes audiences.

Amaya Braganza’s portrayal of Eurydice is utterly entrancing from her first note. Her vocal prowess, characterized by clarity and emotional depth, lifts the story, weaving through melodies with precision and grace. Each performance she gives dominates the stage, showcasing an exceptional talent that demands attention.

Lana Gordon’s Persephone dominates the stage, her powerful voice belying her stature, exuding a drunk, fun energy that is utterly contagious. Her performance, akin to that of a great jazz singer, captures the essence of the character’s spirit and defiance.

Matthew Patrick Quinn’s Hades, with a bass voice that commands attention, brings a richness and power reminiscent of Hugh Jackman’s gravitas. His portrayal is smooth yet terrifying, embodying a god who wields power with a disarming nonchalance.

The Fates — Marla Louissaint, Lizzie Markson and Cecilia Trippiedi — harmonize with such precision that their vocal interplay gives the audience goosebumps, adding layers to the narrative that are both eerie and entrancing. Their harmonic glissandos are especially chilling, a testament to their collective talent.

This cast, paired with an equally talented orchestra, forms one of the most musically gifted ensembles to grace a touring production. A standout moment of pure joy is when a trombone player descends to dance among the cast, blurring the lines between orchestra and actors and showcasing the boundless creativity of the production.

Hadestown not only reimagines ancient myths for a modern audience but does so with an artistry and passion that elevate it beyond mere performance. It’s a seamless blend of narrative depth, musical excellence and technical innovation, all of which converge to create an immersive and emotionally charged experience. The cast’s ability to bring such complex characters to life, coupled with the orchestra’s dynamic contribution, makes every moment resonate with authenticity and impact. As the final note fades and the lights dim, the audience is left not just entertained but profoundly moved, a testament to the show’s ability to connect on a deeply human level.

Hadestown runs Tuesday, February 6 through Sunday, February 11 at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts's Moran Theater.

For more information, full cast and crew credits and links to tickets, visit the Hadestown page here on JaxPlays.

Correction:

An earlier version of this review erroneously credited Hannah Schreer as one of the Fates. The swing, Cecilia Trippiedi, performed in the opening night’s performance. The review has been updated to reflect the correct information. We regret the error.