‘Hadestown’ Ignites the Stage at PPAC
The strains of jazz, blues and folk make the trip down to 'Hadestown' unexpectedly joyful, even amid strife.
Rudy Foster portrays Hermes in ‘Hadestown,’ which runs through Nov. 9 at the Providence Performing Arts Center. Photo by Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade.
I have a confession. Even though I’ve been a fan of Hadestown since 2019, I hadn’t actually seen it until last night’s performance at the Providence Performing Arts Center. My closest encounters were through YouTube animations and the occasional low-quality “how-to-make-slime” videos.
Nothing, however, could have prepared me for the real thing.
Hadestown intertwines two mythological love stories you’ve probably heard before — of Orpheus and Eurydice, and Hades and Persephone. In case Greek mythology or Percy Jackson never made your TBR pile, here’s a quick recap: Orpheus is a poor musician with a gift to give. He falls in love with Eurydice, a hungry girl longing for Spring.
Meanwhile, Persephone, the goddess of Spring and iconic Queen of the Underworld, lives out half of her days in the mortal world (creating Spring and Summer) and the other half with her husband, Hades, god of the Underworld (also creating Fall and Winter). But it’s been a while since mortals have experienced Spring or Fall.
Anaïs Mitchell’s lyrical storytelling breathes new life into these ancient tales, transforming them into a modern masterpiece that comments on capitalism, climate change and oppression, all while making you want to dance out those depressive feelings.
‘Hadestown’ explores dark themes with a soundtrack shot through with jazz, blues and folk. It runs through Nov. 9 at the Providence Performing Arts Center. Photo by Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade.
Narrated by the charismatic Hermes, played by Rudy Foster, the story unfolds with humor, rhythm and jazz. Foster’s confident, magnetic energy keeps the audience hanging on to every word he tells of the tragic fate of gods and mortals alike. Hermes introduces the plot in his speakeasy-style bar, a vibrant setting that has you longing for a drink. But hold on tight — once Persephone steps off the train, she’s ready to mingle. We meet Orpheus (Jose Contreras) and Eurydice (Julia Schicks, understudy), and their chemistry is undeniable. Their performances had me laughing, crying and rooting for them until the bitter end (no spoilers!).
The second act brings us to the most dreaded place for Persephone — the Underworld. It is hot, bright and ruled by the commanding voice of Nickolaus Colón as Hades. His voice echoes across the theater, demanding a level of respect you could only give a god. Namisa Mdlalose Bizana shines as Persephone by bringing a kind, fun-spirited nature to the character. The Fates, portrayed by Miriam Navarrete, Alli Sutton and Jayna Wescoatt, weave their melodic harmonies throughout the play, delivering a perfect balance of beauty and dread.
While we may (or may not) know how the story ends, Hermes reminds us, time and time again, that it is one worth retelling. Even in tragedy, Hadestown holds space for you to laugh, dance and sing with the cast, no matter the outcome.
Hadestown performances take place Saturday, Nov. 8, and Sunday, Nov. 9, at the Providence Performing Arts Center. Visit ppacri.org for show times and ticket information.
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