Hadestown

Warning: Flashing lights in second act

This is a Broadway film at its finest. If you know the Greek story of Orpheus and Eurydice, then you know it’s a tragic story. However, the way Hadestown is able to integrate us into the world was incredible and the fact that we were able to see the original cast return to there roles was awesome and a once in a lifetime opportunity to see on a big screen. Though, I am jealous but happy for those who got to see them perform it live in London.

The acting outdoes itself. Unlike past broadway shows I’ve seen, we were able to see the actors react to what they were experiencing. There eyes were able to connect with not only each other but the audience as well. When Hades was looking at Eurydice, I could see the fear that Penelope had. The way her face tensed and her eyes gazing back and forth between the two characters. I could feel Persephone’s pain and plea without having to say anything during the Chant number. Amber Gray was able to showcase that beautifully. Persephone and Eurydice, for me were the stars in this show. While Persephone was able to balance her character between the bitterness of her alcohol use and the shame/regret, but Noblezada showcased her desperation. Despite the circumstances she is faced with, she also shows regret with her choice. Her eyes showcase everything from the decision of choosing to go with Hades to her anger when it comes to her new life. I could feel her anger and cries in the Flower number, which is both beautiful and devastating to see. I got chills from her performance when I saw it and as a broadway performer, she is grossly underrated.

Patrick Page, on the other hand did a phenomenal with his performance as Hades. The way his voice is commanding is powerful. Every scene he is in, he commanded that attention and was able to work around an injury that he acquired. Despite the initial show not having Hades with a cane, it worked in this case because it showed the power yet tiredness that the character displays. He uses his voice to manipulate those who stay with Hadestown and lures over the term “freedom” in a way that is poignant today. His one weakness, Persephone and the song that Orpheus sings (Word to the wise). He truly does love Persephone but he is so overcome with power that he doesn’t know what to do with it and the love slowly turns bitter, unlike Orpheus and Eurydice.

I love this show and how the themes of freedom, identity, and love take place. There’s a good balance of staying faithful to tragic love story while also having an underlying political tone to it. None of it felt in my face and was portrayed in a dignified way. Rather than focus on what’s wrong with the world, they were able to have hope on how the world could be. Orpheus, despite having to live through the endless cycle of having to meet/lose his love over and over again, never loses his heart/hope, even when he is in Hadestown. His devotion and loyalty feel authentic and never over the top. The chemistry both Carney and Gray had was beautiful and could feel their love through the screen. Throughout the show, themes of freedom and “a wall” hauntingly correlate with the real world and how much people sacrifice when it comes to being safe and fed. Sure, the workers are safe but overtime they starts to question there way of life and ultimately leave with Orpheus and Eurydice for a chance at having a life and some sense of individuality. It’s tragic but it happens and the show makes us realize that yes, the world is in turmoil, but it doesn’t need to be that way. Orpheus’ hope in completing his song to have the weather change and save humanity. It shows power in optimism, which is what the characters praise him for.

While we see the optimism that Orpheus shares, we see his demons, along with everyone’s doubts and fears portrayed through the fates. As much as we are led to believe that Hades is the villain, the fates are. They showcase the doubts that we all have and how ultimately those doubts/fears can end up hurting us in the end. Eurydice, desperate for security and food chooses to follow Hades with temptation from the Fates. Orpheus, on the other hand is tempted by the Fates to turn around when he goes to Hadestown and back. They play into the worst parts of ourselves and their voices, they are smooth yet haunting to hear and the fates are the true villains in Hadestown.

Another aspect to look out for is the camera work. We are able to clearly see the actors’ expressions in the show, but also at some parts step into the world of the characters. The way when we go to Hadestown, we see it through Persephone’s eyes. It was a clever way to showcase the upward angle without it feeling dizzying was excellent.

Finally, De Shields nails Hermes. The way he moves, he, along with Fray and Page is able to command an audience just with his presence. He was able to move with the feel of the music that was in character for him and his looks when Orpheus overstepped was funny.

Overall, this was an amazing once in a lifetime movie theater experience. I recommend for anyone who loves Greek mythology/Broadway and it’s even better when it’s on the big screen.