Are you already thinking of what shows to look out for in 2024? One of the most highly anticipated productions of 2024 is the arrival of HADESTOWN to the West End in February.
Hadestown logo
HADESTOWN’s writer Anaïs Mitchell released a concept album in 2010 after it was performed for the first time in the US cities of Barre and Vergennes. After finding a director, Mitchell went on to bring the production Off-Broadway in 2016 before further productions in Canada in 2017 at London's National Theatre in 2018.
The production opened on Broadway in 2019 where it continues to play at the Walter Kerr Theatre. Now HADESTOWN's West End transfer is planned at the Lyric Theatre where it opens on 10 February 2024. In the run up to what is highly anticipated to be one of the most popular West End musicals to see in the New Year, we're sharing the reasons why HADESTOWN is a must-see.
1. Tony Award-Winning Epic
Winner of multiple Tony Awards, is a theatrical masterpiece that has gained critical acclaim for its innovative storytelling, music, and overall production. At the 73rd Tony Awards in 2019, HADESTOWN was nominated for an astounding 14 awards (the most for that evening) and won eight of them! Their awards included Best Musical and Best Original Score.
2. Mythology Reimagined
Dive into the mesmerising world of Greek mythology with a modern and enchanting twist. HADESTOWN breathes new and exciting life into the timeless tales of Orpheus and Eurydice, taking audiences on an unforgettable journey through the underworld. This story is told through a sung-through musical.
3. Soul-stirring Music
Composed by Anaïs Mitchell, experience the soulful and genre-defying music in this production. HADESTOWN was a concept album before it became a musical which makes for an interesting journey and even won a Grammy Award in 2020 for Best Musical Theatre Album. The musical score itself combines bluesy tunes to folk-inspired melodies, it's a rich tapestry that weaves seamlessly together with the narrative.
Eva Noblezada, André De Shields, and Reeve Carney in Broadway production of Hadestown. Credit: Matthew Murphy
4. Visually Stunning Stage Design
Marvel at the visually stunning set design within the Lyric Theatre will transport you from the bustling streets of HADESTOWN to the depths of the underworld. Although we’re not sure what we can expect from the West End set design just yet, we know it's in the safe hands of Scenic Designer Rachel Hauck who worked on the National Theatre production in London in 2018.
5. Emotional Resonance
HADESTOWN isn’t just a musical, for audiences it will be an emotional rollercoaster. Explore the themes of love, resilience, and the human condition in a way that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you contemplating the profound moments long after the final curtain falls.
6. Exceptional Cast
The one thing that has most definitely got everyone talking is the recent announcement of the HADESTOWN West End cast. An exceptional cast is expected including Dónal Finn, Grace Hodgett Young, Zachary James, Melaine La Barrie, Gloria Onitiri, Bella Brown, Madeline Charlemagne, and Allie Daniel. It’s a group of people that everyone in London is excited to see in this production (and we can’t wait either!)
So when performances begin on 10 February 2024, embark on a theatrical odyssey unlike any other, where myth and music come together in perfect harmony. HADESTOWN promises an unforgettable experience and is one of the must-see musicals to see in London in 2024 so make sure you book your tickets!
