Hadestown

Hadestown is playing the Benedum Center for the Performing Arts this weekend, October 30 through November 1, as part of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust's PNC Broadway in Pittsburgh Series. It's a sung-through musical written by singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell, with original direction by Rachel Chavkin, who also did Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812. The story weaves together two Greek myths: the one about Orpheus and Eurydice and the one about Hades and Persephone.

It took a long road to get to Broadway, but once it arrived, it picked up eight Tony Awards in 2019 out of thirteen nominations, including Best Musical. The cast recording went on to win the 2020 Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album, and a filmed version of the production became the highest-grossing pro shot of a stage musical. On stage, it's carried by a vibrant ensemble of actors, dancers, and singers who handle the music and the movement together.

There are a few things to keep in mind before you go. The production uses theatrical haze and strobe-like effects, and there's some adult language and adult themes throughout, so it's recommended for ages 8 and up. If you're bringing younger kids, that's a good place to start.

There are five performances over the three days: Friday, October 30 at 7:30 PM; Saturday, October 31 at 2 PM and 7:30 PM; and Sunday, November 1 at 1 PM and 6:30 PM. You'll find it at the Benedum Center, 237 7th Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222.