Go 'way down to Hadestown' at Popejoy -- it's worth the ticket

One could never imagine finding themselves on the “road to hell.”

Yet, the phenomenal “Hadestown” cast took the audience on a journey of discovery and reflection, as the Tony Award-winning musical kicked off its seven-performance stand at Popejoy Hall on Wednesday night.

The stage was the focal point for more than 120 minutes as the entire cast and musicians gave performances that flowed with precision.

“Hadestown” follows two intertwining love stories — that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife Persephone.

It invites audiences on a hell raising journey to the underworld and back

The musical picked up eight Tony Awards in 2019, a Grammy Award in 2020, as well as winning four Drama Desk Awards, six Outer Critics Circle Awards, including Outstanding New Broadway Musical, and the Drama League Award for Outstanding Production of a Musical.

The North American touring production of “Hadestown” stars Amaya Braganza as Eurydice, Lana Gordon as Persephone, Will Mann as Hermes, Matthew Patrick Quinn as Hades, and J. Antonio Rodriguez as Orpheus.

Beyond the Underworld: Tony Award-winning 'Hadestown' brings national tour to Popejoy Hall for seven performances

The Fates are played by Marla Louissaint, Lizzie Markson, and Hannah Schreer. The Workers Chorus features Sevon Askew, Jamal Lee Harris, Courtney Lauster, Daniel Tracht, and Racquel Williams.

Swings for the tour include Ian Coulter-Buford, KC Dela Cruz, Colin LeMoine, and Cecilia Trippiedi.

All of the above mentioned cast members worked together to create an unforgettable night.

Starting with Mann, who brought sass and class to the role of Hermes. As the narrator, Mann rarely leaves the stage and immediately gives a glimpse into the soulful sounds of “Hadestown.”

Mann’s confidence is superb.

He says the production allows room for every performer to bring themselves to the roles.

“When a show wins Grammys and Tonys, they want to replicate it on the road,” Mann says. “‘Hadestown’ didn’t do that. They told me that they trust the material and the words and music. It’s the marriage of those with the performer that makes the magic. At the core, the production is genius and we bring what we can. Magic will happen once you let it and the whole team trusts us all.”

Gordon as Persephone was able to transport the audience to the Golden Age of rhythm and blues.

Act II opens with “Our Lady of the Underground.” As soon as she begins with “Step into my office,” the audience hears exactly who she is.

“How long's it been?/ A little moonshine ain't no sin/ Tell my husband to take his time/ What the boss don't know, the boss won't mind.”

Gordon made sure each person knew who Persephone is – she’s a boss with a lot to say.

Of course, we mustn't forget the longing lovers of Eurydice and Orpheus, played by Braganza and Rodriguez, respectfully.

The pair fit seamlessly as each brought a little bit of themselves to the roles.

Braganza’s voice is pure power, meanwhile Rodriguez gets to show the soft side of his voice during the first act.

Their story is anything but typical. They come from different places and a deal is made, throwing into a level of chaos.

Separately, each performer took their stage time to the next level. Together, it was difficult not to root for them.

The Fates, played by Louissaint, Markson and Schreer, had harmonies that rival the 1960s girl groups. Hearing them transported me to another dimension – which, maybe, was the point.

The Workers Chorus seemed to be the most well-rounded, easily adapting to the quickly changing stage.

While the lyrics and music are profound, the lighting and stage design add to the intensity, while having a simplistic feel.

One couldn’t miss the debonair Quinn, who brings Hades to life on stage. Quinn’s voice is powerful which adds to the intensity of what one would think the King of the Underworld is all about.

Yet, there are moments, as he’s dealing with his relationship with Persephone, where he shows a softer side – these moments that humanize him.

There’s a reason why this musical has received accolades during its journey. The answer is simple – it’s just THAT good.

It’s a recipe for success – amazing music, great stage design and an ensemble cast that’s top notch.

Shows run through Sunday, Dec. 10, at Popejoy Hall.

On Wednesday night, the audience went “Way Down to Hadestown” – and it was definitely worth the ticket.