Center Stage Performing Arts in Beach, North Dakota, showcased the acclaimed musical “Hadestown” from November 20 to 22, 2023. The production, directed by Tiffany Stonehocker, captivated audiences with its retelling of the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. The show, written by Anaïs Mitchell, first debuted on Broadway in April 2019, winning seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical.
As the cast took the stage, the audience was greeted by Sawyer Noll, who portrayed Hermes, the guide and narrator of the story. Noll set the tone with a powerful performance, singing, “It’s a sad song, but we sing it anyway,” inviting the audience to join him in a tale that blends tragedy with the magic of music.
The Story Unfolds
The opening number introduced key characters, including Persephone, played by Oakley Stonehocker, and Hades, portrayed by Josh Davidson. As Hermes narrated the story, he described Orpheus, played by Oliver Lovell, as “a poor boy working on a song” destined to win the heart of Eurydice, played by Kailee Tescher. The chemistry between Lovell and Tescher was palpable as their love story began to unfold amidst the backdrop of a jazz-infused score.
Early on in Act I, Orpheus and Eurydice marry, but their joy is short-lived. As the seasons change, Persephone must return to the underworld, marking the onset of a cold winter. Eurydice, feeling the weight of loneliness and uncertainty, is tempted by Hades, who offers her a ticket to Hadestown. This pivotal moment showcases her internal conflict and foreshadows the tragic events that follow.
Powerful Performances
Kailee Tescher delivered a striking portrayal of Eurydice, capturing the character’s vulnerability and strength. Her performance resonated with the audience as she navigated the challenges of love and survival. Tescher’s vocal precision and emotional depth brought Eurydice’s struggles to life, making her decisions feel both relatable and poignant.
As Act II progressed, Orpheus’s determination to rescue Eurydice became the central focus. Lovell’s portrayal of Orpheus highlighted a balance of optimism and desperation, contrasting sharply with Eurydice’s growing cynicism. The unfolding drama emphasized the themes of love, sacrifice, and the human condition, culminating in a conclusion that adhered to the warnings of Hermes.
The production of “Hadestown” at Center Stage Performing Arts was not just a performance; it was a heartfelt interpretation of a timeless story. As the cast delivered their final notes, the audience was left reflecting on the beauty of love, even in its most tragic forms. This rendition of a classic tale proved that stories can transcend time and place, resonating deeply with those who hear them.
Through the collaboration of a talented cast and the vision of director Tiffany Stonehocker, Beach’s Center Stage brought a slice of Broadway to their community, reminding all that even in sorrow, there is beauty in the song.
