It's an old song. It's a sad song. But we sing it anyway. Such is the song of
Hadestown, the 2019 Tony winning best musical that's returning to Minneapolis this week. Three years since
the last time I saw* it and it's even more meaningful and powerful in light of the state of the world right now. This brilliant musical written 15+ years ago speaks to the struggles of the working class and the dangers of a despotic ruler in a way that strongly resonates in 2025. These themes are explored through the story of
Hades and Persephone, whose relationship is responsible for the changing of the seasons (according to Greek mythology), as well as
Eurydice and Orpheus' tragic love story. Singer/songwriter Anaïs Mitchell turned this sad old song into a song cycle, a folk opera which she first recorded with some of her folk singer friends in 2010 (which I heard her perform at the loveliest little folk festival in Minnesota,
Storyhill Fest). It took almost a decade to turn that song cycle into a Broadway musical, with help from visionary director Rachel Chavkin. The result is this stunning piece of music-theater that's wholly unique and original. I was
lucky enough to see it on Broadway (where it's still playing), and now twice on tour. Because even though we know how this song ends, as long as they keep singing it I'll keep listening with rapt attention. Experience the song of
Hadestown at the Orpheum Theatre in downtown Minneapolis through Sunday only (
click here for info and tickets, including student/educator rush).
