Anaïs Mitchell's ‘Hadestown’ is a theatrical marvel that takes audiences on a journey into the depths of Greek mythology and human emotion. This modern folk opera, which premiered Off-Broadway in 2016 before its Broadway debut in 2019, weaves together elements of love, despair, and resilience against a backdrop of beautiful music and lyrics.

Set in a post-apocalyptic world reminiscent of Depression-era America, "Hadestown" reimagines the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, as well as the story of Hades and Persephone. The show tells the tale of Orpheus a hopelessly optimistic musician who falls in love with the practical-minded and destitute Eurydice. However, when the temptation of the industrial and wealthy ‘Hadestown’, with its tyrannical leader, Hades and his resentful, drug-addled wife Persephone, overwhelms Eurydice, the happy couple’s tale ends in tragedy.

One of the most striking aspects of "Hadestown" is its distinctive musical style, which blends folk, jazz, blues, and Americana influences to create a sound that is both timeless and contemporary. Anais Mitchell's evocative lyrics paint vivid images of longing and redemption, while the soulful melodies composed by Michael Chorney and Todd Sickafoose, linger in the mind long after the final curtain falls.

Recently I had the pleasure of seeing ‘Hadestown’ in London and it absolutely didn’t disappoint. One of the most striking aspects of "Hadestown" is its distinctive musical style, which blends folk, jazz, blues, and Americana influences to create a sound that is both timeless and contemporary. Anais Mitchell's evocative lyrics paint vivid images of longing and redemption, while the soulful melodies composed by Michael Chorney and Todd Sickafoose, linger in the mind long after the final curtain falls. And the live performance didn’t disappoint with its exceptionally talented live band.

The acting and singing was exceptional too, with the cast portraying such depth and emotion with every line they spoke and every line they sung. Putting their own spin on their characters giving them life and motivation beyond their scripts, painting a beautiful tapestry of love, hope and desperation that had the power to move the entire audience.

But, above all of the other elements of the musical that made watching it a thoroughly enjoyable experience, my favourite thing about ‘Hadestown’ was the set. As a self-proclaimed theatre geek, I have gushed extensively over so many set designs (some of my favourites being Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812 and Hamilton) but ‘Hadestown might just be in my top 3. Despite not having as large an ensemble and stage as other productions, ‘Hadestown’ was staged amazingly, with every set or stage arrangement corresponding beautifully with the lyrics and scene and creating the most amazing atmosphere.

All in all, seeing ‘Hadestown’ was a wonderful experience and I would highly recommend it to fans of musicals, Greek mythology or anyone who wants to fill the next 2 hours of their day. I promise you will not regret it!