Cardboard Playhouse's Hadestown Teen Edition Proves Theater Defies Age
When it comes to youth-led performances, there’s often an underestimation of their ability to grasp and execute complex material fully. Many of us flash back to high school drama productions that, while charming, usually lacked polish or emotional depth. However, Cardboard Playhouse Theater Company’s Hadestown: Teen Edition at North 4th Art Center defies every stereotype, delivering a professional, moving, and powerful rendition of the Tony Award-winning musical.
Hadestown, written by singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell, first began as a folk opera concept album in 2010. It evolved into a full-fledged stage musical, making its Off-Broadway debut in 2016 before opening on Broadway in 2019. The show was a hit, earning widespread critical acclaim and winning eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical.
Set in a hauntingly imaginative underworld, Hadestown retells the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, blending timeless themes of love, sacrifice, and power with modern social commentary on wealth disparity and labor struggles. The musical’s unique blend of folk, jazz, and blues music and Rachel Chavkin’s visionary direction created an atmospheric and emotionally charged experience that resonated with audiences worldwide.
Given the show’s weighty themes and intricate musical arrangements, staging a teen edition of Hadestown is an ambitious undertaking. But Cardboard Playhouse Theater Company proves that even the most daunting productions can shine with the right cast and creative team.
From the moment you step into the theater, the mood is perfectly set. The staging captures the industrial rich yet working-class vibe central to the world of Hadestown. The combination of raw, minimalistic set pieces and evocative lighting transports the audience into the underworld and back, blending the grittiness of manual labor with the grandeur of myth. This careful attention to detail immerses the audience into the show’s world before the first note is sung.
The cast is nothing short of remarkable, with every performer bringing a unique energy and talent to their role.
An initial standout is Marley Crump as Eurydice. At just 16 years old, Marley possesses a vocal power that is both stunning and stirring. Her first note grabs the audience and doesn’t let go. Comparisons to Broadway powerhouse Renée Elise Goldsberry are not unwarranted. Marley has the potential to make waves far beyond the local theater scene.
Olivia DeLoach, who impressed audiences in Cardboard Playhouse’s Xanadu, delivers another stellar performance as Hermes. As the narrator of the production, she guides the audience through the twists and turns of Orpheus and Eurydice’s tragic love story with wit, charm, and authority. Olivia makes the most of her time on stage, commanding attention with every line and lyric.
Joseph Martinez brings heartfelt emotion to Orpheus, sincerely capturing the character’s vulnerability and hope. Early moments revealed a touch of nervousness, but his performance crescendos into brilliance during “Epic III,” where his tender yet powerful voice captivates the audience and delivers one of the show’s most memorable moments.
Luke Anaya delivers an unforgettable performance as Hades. His deep, resonant voice is unexpected but entirely captivating, drawing comparisons to Leonard Cohen. Luke’s commanding presence and rich bass tones perfectly embody the dark, brooding character, leaving the audience hanging on every word and note.
Nadia Ryan as Persephone adds a lively and dynamic energy to the production. Her standout moment comes during “Our Lady of the Underground,” where her vocal prowess and charisma truly shine. Nadia brings levity and emotional weight to her role, adding layers to the story.
The trio of Fates (Jules Markwell, Mabel Zehnder, and Genesis Mitchell) is another highlight, weaving intricate harmonies that elevate every scene they’re in. Their voices blend seamlessly, creating a haunting and ethereal sound that lingers in the mind long after the show ends.
No production is complete without a strong ensemble, and this group is exceptional. Each cast member brings their individual flair while working cohesively to create a rich, textured world. The ensemble’s energy and dedication enhance every scene, whether singing, dancing, or setting the stage’s mood.
At its core, Hadestown is a story about hope, resilience, and the human spirit. Its themes of love and sacrifice resonate universally, while its exploration of poverty and wealth speaks to contemporary struggles. These themes are particularly poignant when performed by young actors, who bring a raw, unfiltered energy to the story. The cast proves that youth can grasp these concepts and bring fresh perspectives to them.
Their ability to capture the nuances of this complex musical is a testament to their talent and the creative team's dedication to the production. From the haunting melodies of “Wait for Me” to the heartbreaking finale, every moment of the performance is filled with passion and authenticity.
Hadestown: Teen Edition is a triumph. It’s a testament to the talent and hard work of its young cast and creative team, proving that age is no barrier to delivering a profoundly moving and professional production. From the stellar lead performances to the harmonizing Fates and the powerful ensemble, every element of the show comes together to create an unforgettable experience.
If this production is any indication, the future of theater is in skillful hands. Don’t underestimate these young performers—they are artists in their own right, ready to take the stage by storm. Cardboard Playhouse’s Hadestown - Teen Edition is a must-see for theater enthusiasts and a shining example of the power of youth in the arts.
Cardboard Playhouse’s Hadestown - Teen Edition runs from January 24th to February 9th at the North 4th Art Center. Tickets are available at cardboardplayhouse.org/hadestown
Such a fantastic review for such a deserving fantastic show!
thoughtfully written!
Beautifully said!!!!