A double cast of 86 young performers to take audiences on an unforgettable journey to the Underworld.
The timeless tales of Greek mythology are captivating audiences around the world once again, and this summer Belfast School of Performing Arts (BSPA) is bringing one of the most celebrated modern retellings to Northern Ireland as 86 talented young performers take to the stage in Hadestown: Teen Edition at The MAC.
Performed by two complete casts of aspiring performers aged between 14 and 19, the ambitious Summer Youth Project production showcases the incredible talent emerging from Northern Ireland while introducing audiences to the Tony Award-winning musical that has become a global theatrical phenomenon.
Inspired by the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, Hadestown combines a haunting folk and jazz-inspired score with a powerful story of love, hope and sacrifice. With interest in Greek mythology soaring once again following the release of the blockbuster film The Odyssey, the production offers audiences the chance to experience one of the most acclaimed contemporary musicals ever written.
Peter Corry, Director says of the project,
“Hadestown is unlike any other musical we’ve produced. It asks a huge amount of our performers, not just vocally but emotionally, and they have embraced every challenge. These young people are pulling together this entire show with a rehearsal time of only three weeks, something any seasoned professional would struggle with! The standard they have achieved already has been extraordinary, and audiences will be amazed at the professionalism, passion and maturity these young people bring to the stage.”
Adding an extra layer of authenticity to the production is Assistant Director Adam Gillian, who previously performed as the understudy for Orpheus during Hadestown‘s celebrated run at London’s National Theatre. Now, he is passing on that professional experience to the cast and of course the two young performers taking on the iconic role of Orpheus in BSPA’s Summer Youth Production.
Peter goes on to say;
“At BSPA, we’re passionate about giving young performers opportunities to tackle productions that challenge and inspire them. Having someone like Adam, who has first-hand experience of performing in Hadestown at the highest level, mentor our cast has been an incredible opportunity and a real source of inspiration.”
Assistant Director Adam Gillian added:
“Having been part of Hadestown professionally, it’s very special to revisit the show from a completely different perspective. Watching these young performers discover the story, the music and the characters has reminded me why this musical is so powerful. Their commitment and talent has been remarkable, and it’s been a privilege to help guide them as they make these roles their own.”
Renowned for nurturing some of Northern Ireland’s brightest young performers, BSPA’s annual Summer Youth Project has become an annual event for participants, not only offering them the opportunity to work alongside experienced creatives while performing productions of the highest calibre, but also bringing them the opportunity to make lifelong friendships, have fun and create wonderful memories. Many of these young performers return year after year for the special experience the summer youth project brings them.
One such student is Oliver Stevenson, 19, who joins the line up as Hades, he’s excited about taking part in what will likely be his last summer youth project.
“I’ve been with BSPA for 12 years and these projects have been the highlight of my summers, the friends I have made and the laughs we have shared have made a real impact on my teenage years, I’ve worked with some of the best in the business and I’m grateful for all the experiences being a part of BSPA has afforded me. At 19, this will be my last youth project but hopefully not the last senior project. I would urge anyone considering it to give it a go, you might just find your true purpose or at the very least, make some incredible memories that will last a lifetime.”
With its unforgettable music, stunning storytelling and timely themes of hope, resilience and humanity, Hadestown: Teen Edition promises to be one of the highlights of Northern Ireland’s summer theatre calendar.
Hadestown: Teen Edition
Venue: The MAC, Belfast
Dates: 20th – 22nd August
Performances: Two casts performing two performances each.
Book now www.themaclive.com. Tickets priced @ £24 including booking fee.
Image: Peter and Adam with some of the cast of Hadestown
(Back row l-r) Katie Jenkins, Hermes, Peter Corry, Director, Oliver stevenson, Hades, Abbie McCann, Eurydice, and Sophie Wilson, Nicola Craigan and Alice Mackle as The Fates.
Front row L-R – Adam Gillian, Assistant Director, Cadhla Cheevers, Persephone and Jude Forsythe as Orpheus.
