Anaïs Mitchell has created something magical. I felt like giving a standing ovation after every song. Just pure theatrical joy delivered by a cast who know how to squeeze every drop of emotion from an audience. Perhaps it was sitting right at the front of the stalls, but the opening of Hadestown feels like dinner theatre; almost cosy in its intimacy. The first act is so busy - there are a hundred-and-one things happening on stage that it occasionally becomes overwhelming. The second act is slightly more intimate, but no less dazzling. Having the musicians on stage lends to the feel of being in a nightclub. The stereo separation makes it easier to pick out the various musical threads and brings a lovely texture to the songs. Also, who knew a trombone could steal a show? Lots of the cast sing in their natural accents. A roaring northern Hades versus a Mancunian Orpheus makes for quite the thrilling combination. Having subsequently listened to the Broadway cast recording, it is amazing…
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