Expert Review: Why Hadestown Is A Musical Theatre Triumph

4.9
★★★★★

Expert Rating

The Verdict

Hadestown is a musical theatre triumph that redefines what contemporary musicals can achieve. Anaïs Mitchell's folk opera transforms the ancient myth of Orpheus and Eurydice into a deeply relevant meditation on love, capitalism, and climate change. With its intoxicating blend of folk, jazz, and blues, plus staging that's both intimate and epic, this Tony Award winner is essential theatre.

What Makes It Special

  • Brilliant Score: Anaïs Mitchell's folk-influenced music creates an intoxicating soundscape that ranges from intimate ballads to rousing ensemble numbers.
  • Contemporary Relevance: The ancient myth speaks directly to modern concerns about climate change, economic inequality, and the power of hope.
  • Stunning Performances: The cast delivers powerhouse vocals and nuanced characterizations that bring depth to mythological figures.
  • Innovative Staging: Rachel Chavkin's direction creates a world that feels both timeless and urgently modern.

Perfect For

Musical theatre enthusiasts, folk music lovers, mythology fans, and anyone seeking profound storytelling. Appeals to audiences who appreciate both artistic innovation and emotional depth.

Everything You Need to Know

The Story of Hadestown

Hadestown retells the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice through a folk opera lens. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where Hades rules an industrial underworld, the story follows young lovers Orpheus and Eurydice as they face the ultimate test of love.

The Characters

  • Orpheus: A naive young musician who believes his songs can change the world
  • Eurydice: A practical young woman torn between love and survival
  • Hades: The king of the underworld, ruler of an industrial empire built on broken souls
  • Persephone: Hades' wife, bringing spring and hope to the world above
  • Hermes: The messenger god who serves as narrator and guide

Themes

The musical explores themes of love versus survival, the power of art in dark times, economic inequality, environmental destruction, and the cyclical nature of hope and despair.

Musical Highlights

  • "Wait for Me" - Orpheus's desperate journey to the underworld
  • "Why We Build the Wall" - Hades's chilling anthem about fear and division
  • "When the Chips Are Down" - The Fates tempt Eurydice with harsh truths
  • "Our Lady of the Underground" - Persephone's jazzy rebellion anthem
  • "Flowers" - Eurydice's heartbreaking moment of choice
  • "His Kiss, the Riot" - The passionate duet between Orpheus and Eurydice
  • "We Raise Our Cups" - The bittersweet finale celebrating the power of stories

Musical Style: The score blends American folk traditions with jazz, blues, and contemporary musical theatre, creating a unique sound that feels both ancient and modern.

Practical Information

Show Times

  • Monday - Thursday: 7:30pm
  • Friday: 8:00pm
  • Saturday: 2:30pm & 7:30pm
  • Sunday: 3:00pm

Getting There

  • Underground: Piccadilly Circus (2 mins walk)
  • Buses: Multiple routes to Piccadilly Circus
  • Parking: Limited street parking - use public transport

Theatre Information

  • Opened in 1888, renovated in 2018
  • Capacity: 948 seats across 3 levels
  • Accessible seating available
  • Air conditioning throughout
  • Bar and merchandise available

Age Guidance

Recommended for ages 12+ due to mature themes including death, economic hardship, and complex relationships. The show contains some strong language and adult themes.