Last night was the opening show of Hadestown at the Music Hall at Fair Park. The company put on quite an impressive performance that drove the full capacity audience to an instant standing ovation. The whole cast and crew really brought to life the Greek myths of Orpheus and Eurydice and Hades and Persephone. A great show for all ages, knowledge of Greek mythology not required.
The stage setting established the atmosphere of the harsh world and industrial hell. The company creatively used a moving backdrop and lighting effects to portray the hardships faced by the characters. The orchestra was on stage for the entire show, almost becoming characters themselves. Their participation contributed to the excitement and allure of the music. The trombonist Haik Demirchian stood out with his energetic solos.
Despite being known as a great love story between Orpheus and Eurydice, this retelling of the tragedy actually portrays much more. With this production you could feel the emphasis on the power of collective action and holding out hope. The story was originally written in 2006, but its messages about politics and climate change are still relevant and more relatable than ever.
Jaylon C. Crump stole the show for the first half as the god Hermes. Clad in a sharp silver suit, they drew the audience in with their storytelling and soulful voice. Hermes opens the show, and Crump brought the needed energy. They are the first non-binary actor to play Hermes full time on the national tour. They led the audience through the tale and ended the musical with a note of hope.
Ricky Cardebas stepped into the role of Orpheus full-time with this show, and left his heart on stage. It takes a lot of talent and control to sing Orpheus’ high melody well, and Cardebas’ falsetto was consistent throughout the show. His performance was so emotional and sympathetic that as an audience member you hoped that this time Orpheus’ tale would end differently, and he wouldn’t look back.
Eurydice, played by Megan Colton, really shined in her solos in the second act. Colton has a very unique vocal quality and impressive range. Through Colton’s performance you could understand what drove Eurydice to go to Hadestown and leave her lover.
Nickolaus Colon played a powerful and seductive Hades that also explored his softer side in his love for Persephone. His physical presence was balanced by his wide-ranging vocals, moving between smooth and booming.
Namisa Mdlalose Bizana brought liveliness, beauty, and style to Persephone. Her numbers included well executed dance moves and believable drunk acting.
The three Fates, played by Katelyn Crall, Miriam Navarrete, and Alli Sutton, moved together to bring a haunting presence to the story. The chorus provided solid support with their dance moves and vocals.
This production of Hadestown is one you won’t want to miss, so get your tickets now before the show closes on March 2.
To purchase tickets, go to https://broadwaydallas.org/shows/hadestown/
-Melissa Whitler