Last weekend, Center Stage Performing Arts in Beach, North Dakota, captivated audiences with its production of “Hadestown.” Running from November 20 to 22, 2023, this musical retells the classic Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, highlighting the enduring themes of love and sacrifice. The show, written by Anaïs Mitchell, first debuted on Broadway in April 2019 and won an impressive seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical.
Tiffany Stonehocker, the Executive Director of Center Stage, expressed her enthusiasm for the production in her director’s welcome, stating, “I chose this show over a year ago as I sat in New York City and dreamt of bringing this Broadway show to our little town.” She emphasized the music, story, and emotional depth that drew her to recreate this theatrical experience for the local audience.
The performance opened with a vibrant jazz number, setting the stage for the unfolding drama. Sawyer Noll portrayed Hermes, the narrator, guiding the audience through the story with charisma. Hermes introduces the key characters, including Persephone, played by Oakley Stonehocker, and Hades, portrayed by Josh Davidson. The narrative centers on Orpheus, a passionate musician depicted by Oliver Lovell, and his love for Eurydice, played by Kailee Tescher.
Noll’s dynamic portrayal of Hermes captivates the viewers, particularly during his opening lines, “It’s a sad song, but we sing it anyway.” His energetic presence distracts from the foreboding tragedy that looms over the tale. As the story unfolds, the audience witnesses the poignant love story between Eurydice and Orpheus.
Eurydice is characterized as “a runaway from everywhere she’d ever been,” while Orpheus is depicted as “a poor boy working on a song.” Their romance blossoms quickly, culminating in marriage early in Act I. However, the tone shifts when Persephone must return to the underworld to be with Hades, heralding the arrival of winter and leaving Eurydice feeling vulnerable and abandoned.
Tescher’s performance as Eurydice is particularly striking. She embodies a strong yet conflicted character, torn between her love for Orpheus and her instinct for self-preservation. Her vocal delivery is precise, reflecting Eurydice’s calculated decisions as she navigates her circumstances. The pivotal moment comes when she chooses to accept Hades’ offer to escape the harsh winter, leading her to Hadestown.
Act II focuses on Orpheus’s relentless quest to reunite with Eurydice. Lovell’s portrayal emphasizes Orpheus’s determination and unwavering optimism, which contrasts sharply with Eurydice’s growing cynicism. The audience can feel the tension as Orpheus sings, hoping his music will restore the springtime joy they once shared.
As the narrative draws to a close, Hermes’s earlier warning comes to fruition. While the production of “Hadestown” is indeed a tragedy, the performances delivered at Center Stage were infused with emotion and artistry. The cast’s dedication to their roles transformed a “sad song” into a beautifully executed theatrical experience, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
