It’s rare to find a musical that can truly make the old feel
new. So many productions feel like a simple spin on something that’s been done
before. Hadestown, on stage now with Broadway Across America (BAA), is one of
those uncommon gems. Perhaps that’s why it takes a minute to adjust to the
show's distinct blend of jazz and ballads. From a train station above to the
industrial prison below, the dramatic story is a retelling of a Greek myth
familiar to many.
The set has a New Orleans vibe with a balcony and a live band
on the stage. The musicians give a club feel to the show like you’ve stumbled
into a hidden spot in the French Quarter. The set doesn’t constantly change
like some BAA shows but it’s beautifully done with some dramatic lighting moments,
and it makes great use of the turntable on the stage.
Our narrator and guide through the tale is Hermes (Will Mann). He has a beautiful voice and a playful sense of humor. The three Fates are dressed like 1920s flappers and come in hot with their harmonies and cruel realities. The trio is a beautiful foil to Orpheus’ naïve plans. The chorus of five actors that are often in the background offer a reflection of the main characters’ struggles without ever feeling like they are providing empty choreography. Matthew Patrick Quinn is our Hades. He has a towering presence and a deep bass voice to match. He’s perfectly terrifying and convincing as an abuser and a dictator.
Some of the songs are layered together in a way that doesn’t
make sense on the surface, but it blends the different tones of the underworld
with normal life. Persephone (Lana Gordon) brings color and life to the show in
so many ways. Her vibrant green dress is just the first glimpse into her
vitality. She has a glorious moment to shine as the second act opens. She
starts like a campy emcee and gets the crowd going, but it’s in her quiet
moments that she rocks the house with her pain and loneliness.
Amaya Braganza is incredible as Eurydice. Her amazing voice
resonates with such depth. Orpheus, played by John Krause, is a classic example
of opposites attract. He’s all optimism to Eurydice’s sharp edges. There are
shades of Roger from RENT in Orpheus with his “One Song Glory” plot. He’s an
interesting character and can hit the high notes like you wouldn’t believe, but
he’s less convincing as a lover with his falsetto promises. I wish the story
gave us more time to see his connection with Eurydice develop and make their
passion believable.
This ancient tale is always presented as being about two
young lovers but at its heart, it’s also about an old couple unexpectedly
finding each other again despite their differences and the years, they have
ground away at their connection.
Don't Miss the Show
The show runs until Sunday, April 7th at Clowes Memorial Hall so hurry to get tickets. They can be purchased at Clowes Memorial Hall, The Murat Theatre, by calling (800)-982-2787 or online at indianapolis.broadway.com. Shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, 8 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday and 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Sunday. The show duration is 2 hrs and 30 mins with an intermission. One extra tip, the Butler University parking garage next to Clowes becomes incredibly congested before the show. Get there early to avoid the rush.
Photos courtesy of Broadway Across America
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