Hadestown

Where a Song Can Change Your Fate

The winner of 8 Tony Awards® 
including Best Musical!

Hadestown STUDY GUIDE

PRINT FRIENDLY PDF
HADESTOWN LESSON PLANS

NYC DOE APPROVED

Greek Mythology Meets New Orleans Jazz

Hadestown is a retelling of the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, set against a more familiar background inspired by the New Orleans jazz bar scene around 1920s-30s.

Hadestown intertwines two mythic tales — that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife Persephone — as it invites you on a hell-raising journey to the underworld and back.

A Love Story for Today

Orpheus is determined to save his beloved Eurydice from Hadestown and sets off on a journey to the underworld to find her. Along the way, he must face challenges sent by the gods as well as those found from within himself.

A Young Fresh Creative Team

From the creative minds of celebrated singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell – and innovative director Rachel Chavkin (Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812.)

Mitchell’s beguiling melodies and Chavkin’s poetic imagination pit industry against nature, doubt against faith, and fear against love. Performed by a vibrant ensemble of actors, dancers and singers, Hadestown is a haunting and hopeful theatrical experience that grabs you and never lets go.

Teacher Reviews

A Modern Vision of Musical Theatre

Overall:
Rated 5 out of 5
Appropriate for Ages and Grades
Elementary School, Middle School, High School, University and Adult
Impressions:
Uplifting Spirit and Positive Message
Curricular tie-ins:
Art, Music, Literature and Social Emotional
Artistic excellence in the following areas:
Music, Dance, Acting, Writing, Stage Design and Special Effects
Could you see yourself doing this show at your school or local theatre?
yes
Tell us in 50 words or less what your take on the show is from an educators perspective:

A fresh take on storytelling while maintaining the roots of musical theatre tradition. The show is filled with passion and immaculate talent! Very innovative, exciting and moving. A modern vision of musical theatre in the best way possible!

Tell us in 50 words or less what your students’ take on the show was:

Astonished by the incredible cast! Very inspired by the diferent types of voices and characters represented on stage. Loved the music – still listening to the cast recording on repeat.

Emilija

A Study Guide at a whole new Level

Overall:
Rated 5 out of 5
Appropriate for Ages and Grades
Elementary School, Middle School and High School
Impressions:
Uplifting Spirit and Positive Message
Curricular tie-ins:
Music, Literature and Social Emotional
Artistic excellence in the following areas:
Music, Dance, Acting, Writing, Stage Design and Special Effects
Could you see yourself doing this show at your school or local theatre?
yes
Tell us in 50 words or less what your take on the show is from an educators perspective:

This show is so perfect to bring Greek mythology and stories to life. The music and storyline are so rich and encourages my students to see what their reading in a whole new light.

Tell us in 50 words or less what your students’ take on the show was:

My students loved the show. I don’t think they had any idea how emotional a Broadway show could be or Greek mythology. It ties in directly with our school curriculum.

Audrey Kaplan

Write a Review