Hadestown musical debuts in Australia with inclusive casting

Award-winning Broadway musical Hadestown has made its debut in Australia, focusing on themes of love and the power of dreamers. The musical's creator, Anaïs Mitchell, found inspiration in Greek mythology while driving home in 2006. A melody and lyrics about Orpheus and Eurydice came to her mind. The story captivated her as it reflects the struggle between hope and reality. Mitchell identifies with Hermes, the storyteller who narrates the tale of love, hope, and sacrifice. Initially, Mitchell aimed to create a community theatre version of Hadestown while working on her album. With the help of collaborators, she developed the show, incorporating diverse musical influences. The production evolved from its early stages into a fully realized Broadway show, directed by Rachel Chavkin. Hadestown has won eight Tony Awards and a Grammy Award for Best Musical Theatre Album. Despite the hard work involved, Mitchell feels the story always existed and was waiting to be uncovered. The show has been adapted for different audiences, including a recent open audition process in Australia that embraced diversity. Newcomers and seasoned performers alike are part of the Australian cast, making the story more relatable to the local audience. The character of Hermes has also been reinterpreted for the Australian production, with Christine Anu playing the role and embracing a more inclusive representation. The shifting language reflects the changing world and the show's adaptability. Mitchell noted that the themes in Hadestown have become increasingly relevant over time. The story touches on issues of capitalism and collective organizing, with lyrics reminding her of modern political rhetoric. As the world changes, Hadestown aims to resonate with new audiences.