It’s a sad song. It’s a tragedy. But that doesn’t stop fans from flocking to see the award-winning musical, Hadestown. I have become so transfixed by this show that during its run at the Ahmanson Theater in downtown Los Angeles three years ago, I went back for a second performance. The story of an Ancient Greek myth set to modern American folk music mixed with New Orleans-inspired jazz makes Hadestown a stunning and unforgettable show. And now, the spirit of the stage play lives on in the live theater capture, Hadestown: The Musical.

A Journey to the Underworld and Back

This filmed performance features the original actors of the Broadway company, including Reeve Carney as Orpheus and Eva Noblezada as his love interest, Eurydice. Rounding out the cast is Amber Gray as Persephone, Patrick Page as Hades, and the phenomenal Andre De Shields as Hermes who, at eighty years young, is the anchor of the entire experience.

Filmed at London’s West End, Hadestown follows two intertwined love stories between Orpheus and Eurydice, and Hades and Persephone. Their affective songs about love and longing are both haunting and devastatingly beautiful. Despite my familiarity with the show and knowing the ancient mythology, I once again found myself taken aback by the riveting performances. Songs like “Wait for Me (Reprise)” and “Road to Hell” sent chills down my spine, as did seeing the actors up close for the first time. Using a multi-camera setup, we are able to witness the actors’ nuanced and emotive expressions, makeup, costumes, and more. This up close and personal vantage point allows the audience to fully appreciate these details, giving the cast the attention they deserve instead of getting lost on stage.

Takeaway

Like Hamilton‘s live capture before it, Hadestown proves that musical theater can successfully translate in a movie theater. See for yourself and catch Hadestown in theaters beginning Friday, July 24th for five nights only.