The musical phenomenon follows Greek mythological characters, Orpheus; Eurydice; Hades; and Persephone on their personal journeys of love and to the dreaded Hadestown, which is all narrated by Hermes.
Eurydice is a poor girl looking for a ticket to a better life, and she’s convinced to go to Hadestown by Hades himself. Her love interest, Orpheus, would do anything to keep her safe, so he decides to travel to Hadestown and bring her back to the living world. Orpheus has a song in his heart that, when sung, can free people from Hades’ lair and bring Hades’ soul kindness as well. The problem is, Orpheus just can’t seem to finish it.
Meanwhile, Persephone, Hades’ wife, is itching for her designated six months in the living world, where she provides spring and summer for everyone to enjoy. Hades has been selfish by making her leave for the living world too late and then bringing her back too early. Despite once being madly in love, it’s clear their marriage is in disarray.
When Orpheus makes it to Hadestown to save Eurydice, it’s clear it’s up to Orpheus to save the people of Hadestown and brighten Hades heart, which would bring life back to Hades and Persephone’s marriage. But he’s unsure if he’s the man for the job.
Hadestown is a thrilling, genius and unexpected gem of a musical. The show features prominent personal themes of self-confidence and putting emphasis and effort into romantic relationships, but it also has timely political themes which, even though written back in 2010, are more relevant than ever.
The show touches on the struggles of poverty and the disadvantages from being in a lower working class, which quite literally results in Eurydice’s main conflict. The show also highlights the idea of political dictatorship with Hades’ rule, and it shows great relevance to today’s climate with the song “Why We Build the Wall,” where Hades is implanting the idea into his workers minds that building the wall is the key to their freedom and it must be done — when in reality it’s the job of building the wall that keeps them trapped and takes away their freedom.