What happens when love, hope and music collide with the gods of the underworld? Hadestown takes us on a journey between two worlds. The world above, where young lovers Orpheus and Eurydice struggle against poverty and an unforgiving winter, and Hadestown itself, the industrial underworld ruled by Hades.
Alongside them are Persephone, Hades’ complicated wife, and Hermes, who guides us through this modern retelling of the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. It is a story about love, sacrifice, temptation and, ultimately, the power of hope.
What makes BSPA’s production of this hugely popular musical particularly impressive is that every performer on that stage is between just 14 and 19 years old.
There are two casts sharing the production, with both rehearsing side by side tirelessly for the month of August. I’ve been lucky enough to see both casts perform but tonight I’ve been asked to review Team Atlantis – and what a night!
Hades was played powerfully and confidently by one of BSPA’s regular leading men, Oliver Stevenson. Oliver is always a joy to watch and commands the audiences attention as well as any professional leading man I’ve watched.
Katie Jenkins who played Hermes, narrated the story beautifully with a captivating vocal range.
Jude Forsyth played the role of Orpheus. I was told after the show that this young man was only 14 years old. What a talent! Vocally, Jude was exceptional, but it was his acting that really stood out. He brought a wonderful vulnerability and sincerity to the character, making Orpheus feel every bit the hopeful young dreamer the role demands.
His young love interest was equally exceptional. Eurydice was played perfectly by Abbie McCann. Charming innocence and dreamy vocals this girl is one to watch.
Persephone was simply outstanding. Cadhla Cheevers delivered vocals of a standard that genuinely would not be out of place on a West End stage. There was power, warmth and emotion in every number, coupled with her comedic drunk dancing the interpretation of this character was wonderful.
And then there are the Three Fates. Sophie Wilson, Alice Mackle & Nicole Craigan. Three talented girls that had serious leading lady talent and energy. Nothing changes was sung acapella and it was note perfect. Individually they were brilliant and even better together. Their chemistry, comic timing and facial expressions and vocals were a joy.
What is remarkable though, is the sheer size of this cast. With so many young performers taking to the stage at once, you might expect standards to slip. Not here. Every single performer contributed to what felt like a genuinely polished, confident and professional production.
The performance also included some spectacular, high energy dance numbers from an impressive young dance crew.
The ensemble work was particularly impressive, with the large cast creating the atmosphere and scale that Hadestown needs. Amazingly the band is live on stage as well. These seriously impressive musicians elevate the show from start to finish.
The entire team at BSPA should be incredibly proud. To see young performers delivering a production of this scale, complexity and emotional depth is remarkable.
I do think I say this every year, but honestly, this was one of the best shows I’ve seen from BSPA and in fact from any amateur cast. BSPA’s young talent is something special.
It has to be said that the sound and lighting in this production of Hadestown was also amazing. Atmospheric and truly professional as usual.
I have a feeling we will be hearing some of these young performers’ names again in the future, and if this production is anything to go by, the future of musical theatre in Northern Ireland is in very safe hands.
Saturday matinee is SOLD OUT and there are a handful of tickets available for tomorrow night. Tickets available HERE
Ferrymen – Sophie McEwan-Lyon, Ooneen Doran
The Furies: Andrew McCarroll, Catherine Walsh, Robyn Turner
Hades: Oliver Stephenson
Orpheus. Jude Forsythe
Hermes Katie Jenkins
Eurydice. Abbie McCann
Persephone. Cadhla Cheevers
Fates Alice Mackle
Nicole Craigan
Sophie Wilson
Hermes Angels. Aine O’Neill
Christian Schilling
Max Reid
Demon / Dance Captain – Katherine Todd
Dancers: Alex Carson
Catherine Allison
Daisy Mitford
Lola Campbell
Poppy Marshall
Workers: Abigail Matchett
Amber Graham
Aoife Price
Caoimhe McGoveran
Catherine Walsh
Ciara Dixon
Clara Oliver
Erin Hanley
Lexie Smith
Lily Davidson
Ooneen Doran
Rachel McIlhagger
Robyn Turner
Sofia Lamberton
Sophie McEwan-Lyon
Andrew McCarroll
Conor Kelly
Finn Taggart
Joe Smith
Noah Lilburn
Zain Azab
Interval Performers
The Muses: Joe Smith
The Siren: Lexie Smith
Ooneen Doran
Rachel McIlhagger
Underground Band. Guitar: Abigail Matchett
Piano: Corey McReynolds
Saxophone: Joe McGarry
Drums: Tyler McReynolds
