Hadestown: The Musical review

I wasn't very familiar with Hadestown going in, but I came away impressed. This is one of those rare opportunities to see a professional Broadway production on the big screen without actually making it to Broadway, and I wish we got more releases like this. I understand why we don't—putting these productions into theaters cuts into the exclusivity of the stage experience—but every time it happens, I'm reminded how much I enjoy them.

The musical blends the stories of Hades and Persephone with Orpheus and Eurydice into a single narrative, using jazz, folk, blues, and New Orleans influences to create a score that feels unlike most Broadway productions I've seen. Rather than feeling like two disconnected myths, the stories complement one another, each reflecting a different side of love, sacrifice, longing, and devotion.

The biggest standout for me was André De Shields as Hermes. He doesn't just narrate the story—he guides the audience through it with incredible charm and charisma. He has the kind of stage presence that immediately commands your attention without ever feeling forced. He's effortlessly funny, warm, and engaging, and every time he stepped forward to address the audience I found myself drawn right back into the production. He's the glue holding the entire thing together.

Patrick Page is equally impressive as Hades. His deep, booming voice absolutely dominates the stage whenever he speaks or sings. I couldn't take my eyes off him. What made it even more impressive was noticing that he appeared to be performing while wearing a large medical boot. Watching someone at his age continue dancing, singing, and commanding the stage despite an obvious injury only made the performance more remarkable. Every appearance felt larger than life, and I honestly can't imagine better casting for Hades.

The score was consistently enjoyable. There really wasn't a point where I found myself waiting for the next good number. The songs carry the story naturally, and because the production was filmed so well, it never felt like I was watching a distant recording of a stage play. It still retained the energy of live theater while taking advantage of the intimacy that cameras can provide.

This also reminded me why I enjoy professionally filmed stage productions so much. I had the same feeling watching Hamilton and Newsies. They're not replacements for seeing these shows live, but they preserve performances that most audiences would never otherwise experience. Being able to see the original casts perform these roles is something I hope becomes more common, even if I understand why Broadway has to be selective about making these productions widely available.

I'd absolutely see this again, especially with friends. It's charming, beautifully performed, wonderfully staged, and one of the better theatrical experiences I've had this year, even though it technically isn't a movie at all. It serves as a reminder that great storytelling doesn't depend on elaborate sets or cinematic spectacle. Sometimes a stage, a phenomenal cast, and an outstanding score are more than enough.