New York’s revered Walter Kerr Theatre continues to shine with the intoxicating allure of the Tony and Grammy Award®-winning Best Musical, “Hadestown.” With its seductive blend of modern American folk music and vibrant New Orleans-inspired jazz, the enchanting production seamlessly interweaves the poignant tales of two love stories, transporting audience members to mystical realms where passion, music, and storytelling collide with mesmerizing effect.
Among the recently unveiled gems of Hadestown’s constantly evolving tapestry is the addition of the spectacular Betty Who, stepping into the divine role of Persephone with an effervescence that lights up the stage. Possessing a magnetic presence, Betty Who brings a new, yet beautifully faithful, interpretation of the character, managing to encapsulate the essence of Persephone perfectly. Each note delivered by the gifted performer seems to hang in the air, casting a spell over the entranced audience as she navigates through the enthralling narrative.
Sharing the stage with Betty Who is the formidable Phillip Boykin, who dons the mantle of Hades, embodying the god of the underworld with an arresting combination of depth and gravitas. Boykin’s powerful voice reverberates through the theatre, instilling the atmosphere with a sense of awe and reverence, truly doing justice to the complex character he represents.
Yet, the magic of Hadestown is a symphony of individual brilliance harmonized into a compelling whole. Reeve Carney, Grammy Award winner, continues to hold court as Orpheus, delivering a performance that is at once tender and powerful. With a voice that seems to weave through the melodies like golden thread, Carney encapsulates the boundless hope and heartbreaking vulnerability of the legendary musician with nuanced grace, captivating all who bear witness to his exceptional talent.
Supporting this constellation of stars is a cadre of equally dazzling performers, including Tony Award winner Lillias White as Hermes and Solea Pfeiffer as Eurydice, all contributing to the resplendent tableau of talent that brings Hadestown to pulsating life each night. With a chorus and ensemble that mirrors the vibrancy and dynamism of the leading cast, every performance is a unique, unmissable event.
From its humble beginnings as Anaïs Mitchell’s indie theater project touring Vermont, through its metamorphosis into an acclaimed album, Hadestown has continually reinvented itself without losing sight of the magical essence that first captivated audiences. The artistic alliance forged between Mitchell and Rachel Chavkin has birthed a genre-defying musical masterpiece, balancing the delicate dance between innovation and tradition, between the contemporary and the timeless.
Indeed, Hadestown stands as a testament to the transformative power of theatre, providing a haven where the whisperings of ancient tales meld with the throbbing heartbeat of modern life, offering solace, entertainment, and, above all, an unforgettable journey for all who step into its enchanting realm. Whether you are a seasoned theatre enthusiast or a curious first-timer, Hadestown, with its brilliant cast and eternal story, beckons with the promise of a night filled with music, love, and magic. Secure your tickets at www.seatgeek.com/hadestown-tickets or visit the Walter Kerr Theatre box office at 219 West 48th Street for an adventure like no other.
(Photo Credit: Matthew Murphy)
