Hadestown: Teen Edition is the full-length adaptation of the modern classic musical by Anaïs Mitchell Hadestown, which continues to run successfully in the West End and Broadway. The story follows the tragic tale of Orpheus and Eurydice, alongside King Hades and Persephone. As we follow these lovers, we start to see the world through a different perspective. Alongside this, Hadestown has elegantly written music, which is challenging to sing. The Thetford Players is a amateur drama company who put on multiple productions in Thetford. October is the perfect time for this production and the Thetford Players Youth delivered a strong, professional performance.
The directional and creative team consists of Rowan-Charlotte Jeffries, Nadia Graversen and Lynne Jeffries, with additional support from the youth crew. The group understands Hadestown and has created an atmospheric and enjoyable production. The set is well utilised with different elements, such as the door to hell, being used at different times. Similarly, lighting was used effectively to build environment and intensify emotions well.
The production has a sizeable ensemble who consistently put in effort to make the numbers and story more engaging. In addition, their enjoyment on stage is reflected well into the audience: making for an exciting performance. The Fates are an integral part of Hadestown, being played in this production by Emily, Lexi and Ebony. The trio are able to harmonise the material well together, making for brilliant vocal performances. A highlight is ‘When The Chips Are Down’ where their characters and vocals really shine through. Hermes, the messager of the gods and storyteller is played by Imogen. Hermes is a challenging role as she is often on stage. Imogen is able to effectively communicate the story and join in with the different musical moments, making for a great narrator.
The Queen of the Underworld, Persephone is played by Summer. Summer’s vocals during ‘Livin’ it Up on Top’ and ‘We Raise Our Cups’ showcased her brilliant vocal talent. She also embodied the energetic and joyful energy of Persephone very well. The King of the Underworld, Hades is played by Solomon. His vocals were deep which worked well for Hades, especially in ‘Why We Build The Wall’. As well as this, Solomon is able to portray the firm side of Hades really well through his acting, which was very strong.
Eurydice, the confident and sharp-tongued woman who falls in love with Orpheus is played by Aubrey. Aubrey embodies Eurydice’s struggle, portraying her emotions effectively. Her vocals are also very strong, especially in ‘Any Way the Wind Blows’ and ‘Wait For Me (Reprise)’. Orpheus, the musical dreamer who falls for Eurydice is played by Lydia. Lydia is able to capture Orpheus’ optimism and kindness in her performance. Her vocals are also excellent, especially in ‘Wait For Me’. Both Lydia and Aubrey work well together and make for engaging leads.
Hadestown: Teen Edition runs until Saturday 3rd October. Book your tickets here! You can also pay at the door!
Tickets for this production were provided complimentary. Many thanks to the Thetford Players for organising and we wish you all the best with the remaining shows.
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