Hadestown: The Musical (2026)

Hadestown: The Musical is a filmed stage production that takes the audience through the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice with a distinctly modern theatrical style. The first act is considerably weaker than the second, taking longer to find its rhythm and emotional footing. Fortunately, the production improves significantly as it progresses, with several performances becoming more effective the longer they are on stage. While the production has plenty of talent behind it, it never reaches the level of theatrical excellence found in Hamilton or Beetlejuice, leaving me feeling that I've seen stronger musicals.

Amber Gray grows considerably into the role of Persephone. Her performance takes some time to click during the first act, but by the second act she becomes one of the production's most compelling performers. Eva Noblezada is excellent from beginning to end as Eurydice, providing the consistency and emotional weight that the production needs. She gives the character a strong presence and remains one of the highlights throughout. She can sing, dance, act, and she's nice to look at.

Andre De Shields takes on the role of Hermes and, much like Gray, grows on you as the production progresses. His performance becomes increasingly engaging, particularly as the story moves toward its conclusion. Patrick Page makes an immediate impression as Hades, starting with tremendous authority before gradually revealing a more vulnerable side. By the end, his performance carries genuine emotional weight, making his final scenes particularly effective.

The biggest weakness for me is Orpheus. While he is clearly talented as a dancer, his physical presence and singing don't fit the interpretation of the character for me. The same issue appears with the Fates, although Bella Brown stands out considerably above the other two. Unfortunately, her stronger performance makes the weaknesses of her fellow Fates more noticeable. Overall, Hadestown: The Musical has some excellent individual performances and becomes considerably stronger in its second act, but it doesn't come close to matching Hamilton. Result: B

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