Hadestown

What is Hadestown about?

Hadestown interweaves two mythic love stories: that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife Persephone. When Eurydice, desperate to escape poverty and the harsh winter, follows Hades to his underground factory, her lover Orpheus must journey to Hadestown to bring her back. But can a song really change your fate?

What makes Hadestown special?

Hadestown blends American songwriting traditions - from indie folk to blues to New Orleans jazz - into something completely original. Singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell developed the show over 12 years, from a DIY theatre project to a concept album to this Tony-winning Broadway phenomenon. The score has been streamed over half a billion times.

What are the best songs in Hadestown?

The haunting score includes 'Road to Hell', 'Way Down Hadestown', 'Wait for Me', 'If It's True', 'Flowers', and the devastating 'Epic III'. The music seamlessly moves between folk ballads, jazz numbers, and soaring ensemble pieces, creating an emotional journey unlike anything else in musical theatre.

Is Hadestown sad?

Hadestown is deeply moving - it's a tragedy, after all. But it's also defiantly hopeful. The show acknowledges that we know how the story ends (Orpheus looks back), yet asks us to believe in love and hope anyway. As the show says, 'It's a sad song, but we sing it anyway.'

What are the best seats for Hadestown?

The Lyric Theatre creates an intimate atmosphere perfect for Hadestown's folk-club feel. The Stalls offer the best immersion in the music, while the Dress Circle provides a great view of Rachel Hauck's stunning industrial set design. Central seats work best to catch all the action.

Do I need to know Greek mythology to enjoy Hadestown?

Not at all! The show tells you everything you need to know. However, if you're familiar with the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, you'll appreciate the clever ways the production reinterprets the classic story through a Depression-era lens.