Hadestown

About Hadestown

Anaïs Mitchell's Hadestown brings a unique folk-jazz infused retelling of the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice to Broadway audiences. This acclaimed musical, which opened in 2019, reimagines the classic tale with a distinct contemporary sensibility, exploring themes of love, doubt, and hope against the backdrop of a haunting industrial underworld.

The narrative centers on the intertwining fates of two couples: the dreamy musician Orpheus and his beloved Eurydice, and the powerful, enigmatic Hades and his queen Persephone. As winter encroaches and life becomes harsh, Eurydice is drawn to the perceived security of Hadestown, Hades's underground factory. Orpheus, with his enchanting music, embarks on a perilous journey to rescue her, confronting the oppressive forces of the underworld ruler. The production masterfully blends elements of traditional American folk music with New Orleans-style jazz, creating a soundscape that is both ancient and modern, ethereal and grimy.

Hadestown made its Broadway debut at the Walter Kerr Theatre, a historic venue located at 219 W 48th St, New York, NY. The theater's intimate atmosphere provides a fitting setting for the show's immersive storytelling and distinctive musical score. The show's creative team, led by Anaïs Mitchell, has crafted a production that is visually striking and emotionally resonant, earning critical praise and a dedicated following since its opening. Audiences can expect a runtime of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including an intermission, allowing for a comprehensive and engaging theatrical experience.

This reimagining of a timeless myth offers a compelling experience for theatergoers seeking a production that is both musically inventive and dramatically rich. The intricate score and poetic lyrics, combined with dynamic staging, invite audiences to reflect on universal themes through a fresh lens. Hadestown is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and music to illuminate the human condition, making it a noteworthy addition to the Broadway landscape.

Frequently asked questions

What is Hadestown about?

Hadestown is a musical that retells the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, set in an industrial underworld. It explores themes of love, doubt, and hope.

Where is Hadestown playing?

Hadestown is playing on Broadway at the Walter Kerr Theatre, located at 219 W 48th St, New York, NY.

How long is Hadestown?

The runtime of Hadestown is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, which includes an intermission.

Who wrote Hadestown?

Hadestown was written by Anaïs Mitchell, who created the music, lyrics, and book for the musical.

When did Hadestown open on Broadway?

Hadestown opened on Broadway on April 17, 2019.

Is Hadestown family-friendly?

The show is a retelling of a classic myth with mature themes, generally recommended for ages 8 and up.

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