Hadestown implores audiences to question choice over fate
As the players take the stage in the Tony Award-winning Hadestown, the audience understands that the Greek characters tell a well-known tale. Even though the song has been sung time and again, the story that these characters tell is a lesson that still needs to be learned. Although the wind may blow in many ways, fate may not always be predetermined.
Original story musicals are often few and far between. While it took over 15 years for Hadestown to make its White Way debut, the nuanced production is an emotional journey that has a relatability that audiences understand. It is more than just complicated love stories that may or may not have a happily ever after. It is a person’s willingness to stand confident in a belief regardless of people following them.
After a postponement of its National Tour, Hadestown opened at Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando to an enthusiastic audience. After a pre-performance specialty Persephone’s Punch awaken the senses to this Greek tale, the first notes hushed the crowd before the energetic rhythm took hold. With Hermes (Nathan Lee Graham) guiding the tale, the audience may not be in control of the character’s decisions, but they can heed their warnings.
Even though Hamilton has made historical stories entertaining, the Greek gods and their tales are more than just folklore. It is a time to contemplate the hows and why people act. The choice might seem pre-determined but each path has its consequences.
While Orpheus (Chibueze Ihuoma) sings the melody that can mend a darkened heart, the character has both naivety and wisdom. In this performance, Ihuoma captures that dichotomy well. At times supported by the promise of an endearing love yet broken by the shards of doubt, his haunting voice draws the audience to sit at the edge of their seats. Even though Hermes (Graham) might be the scene stealer, it is Orpheus (Ihuoma) that offers the emotional heart of the show. Everyone longs for the happily ever after but relate to the doubts that creep into their consciousness.
Although the love between Orpheus and Eurydice might be a fairy tale, it is the relationship between Hades (Matthew Patrick Quinn) and Persephone (Lindsey Hailes) that is the marriage that many people appreciate. Whether it is being taken for granted or losing the passion that once fueled the connection, this relationship shows life is not as simple as everyone may want it to be.
Looking at the performances, Hailes brings vivaciousness to the role of Persephone. Even though she might only live above ground for part of the year, she brings life to the darkened world. She epitomizes hope. While the rhythmic beats invite everyone to the dance, it is more than just a party. It is a promise that good can come after a moment of darkness.
In contrast, Hades might want his controlling world to thrive but there is something inherently broken about the underworld. The rote action and blinders are not a life well lived. Quinn captures that persona of appearing to be in control without letting anyone see that vulnerability that could break through at any moment. The rich tones of his voice are soothing yet sinister. It is the villain that you cannot help but want to know.
While the two couples capture the emotional turmoil of this story, it is Hermes that is the one who breaks the tension when the tide turns. Even though Graham might be the sparkling gem in this cast, those spotlight moments pale in comparison to his nurturing moments. He might strut across the stage but that bravado is only part of the story.
Overall, the emotional tale tugs at the audience’s heartstrings. Whether people can see how the Greek tale can relate to real life or not, may not matter, the hope is that the lyrics leave a lasting impression long after the stage lights rise.
Similar to how Hamilton weaved a well-known persona into a musical tale beyond the story, Hadestown is a production that should tour for years to come. It might not have huge production numbers or dramatic staging, but it is the lyrics and quiet moments that have audiences thinking back to the sentiment. For now, no one has to wait for their moment or wonder how they will react when the chips are down. If the doubt comes in, a simple reminder to know who stands behind you when the chips come down, solidified the understanding that fate comes with a decision, not a pre-determination.
Hadestown played Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando through Sunday, December 18. Additional cities and tour dates can be found on the musical’s website.