Hadestown – A Mesmerising Trip to the Underworld

Currently one of the hottest plays on the West End, Hadestown continues to captivate audiences with its powerful performances, stunning visuals, and unforgettable music. Directed by Rachel Chavkin, this bold and haunting reimagining of the Greek myths of Orpheus and Eurydice, and Hades and Persephone, has been invigorated by the introduction of a stellar new cast. 

While the narrative centers on the tragic love story of Orpheus and Eurydice, it is Hermes who ultimately steals the show.Cedric Neal, stepping into the role of Hermes, commands the stage from the very first moment. As the narrator and guide, Neal delivers with charisma, precision, and warmth. His presence is magnetic, his vocals rich and soulful, bringing both humor and heart to the story. There's no doubt—this is Hermes' show.

Chris Jarman is an exceptional choice for Hades. His stage presence is commanding and darkly alluring, perfectly capturing the brooding power of the god of the underworld. With a voice as deep and ominous as the tunnels of Hadestown itself, Jarman exudes authority, yet also taps into a moving sense of longing and regret in his relationship with Persephone.

Victoria Hamilton-Barritt shines as Persephone, lighting up the stage with wit, sass, and impeccable comic timing. Her portrayal of the goddess of spring is one of the production’s brightest sparks—both literally and figuratively. She struts between the worlds of light and darkness with dazzling charisma, and her vocals are just as powerful as her presence. Hamilton-Barritt's playful energy brings much-needed levity to the otherwise intense themes of the show, making her performance both hilarious and heartfelt.

At the heart of Hadestown are Orpheus and Eurydice, played by Dylan Wood and Desmonda Cathabel. Wood brings a dreamy, hopeful innocence to Orpheus, soaring beautifully in numbers like “Wait for Me.” He captures the character’s artistic spirit and unwavering optimism, even in the face of tragedy. Cathabel’s Eurydice is grounded and pragmatic, her portrayal of a young woman hardened by hardship both moving and believable. Her mesmerising voice in songs like "Flowers"  captures Eurydice’s sorrow and strength in equal measure, drawing the audience deep into her emotional journey with every note. Together, they share a tender chemistry, making the heartbreak of their story all the more poignant.

The stage design is nothing short of spectacular. The set feels alive, with a gritty, industrial aesthetic that transforms the theatre into a smoky, mysterious underworld. One of the most inventive elements is the rotating stage, which is not just visually impressive but deeply woven into the storytelling. It enhances the sense of movement and fate—especially during the tragic climax—and keeps the narrative in constant, symbolic motion.

Every member of the cast brings something unique to the performance. Each voice is distinct, showcasing a wide range of vocal styles and tones that make the ensemble numbers particularly rich. There’s a real sense of cohesion among the cast, but also individuality, which prevents the chorus from ever feeling like background.

And we can’t forget the live band—absolutely phenomenal from start to finish. The music, composed by Anaïs Mitchell, is a driving force of the show, blending New Orleans jazz, folk, blues, and gospel. A special shout-out must go to Daniel Higham on trombone, whose playing added flair, soul, and texture to the already extraordinary soundscape.

In short, Hadestown is a triumph. It balances mythology with modern storytelling, heartache with humor, and tragedy with triumph. With this fresh cast injecting new life into the production, and Cedric Neal’s unforgettable performance leading the way, this is a show not to be missed. Whether you’re a fan of Greek mythology, musical theatre, or simply a great night out, Hadestown delivers on every level.