Welcome!
Anais Mitchell first began working on “Hadestown” way back in 2006. After thirteen years of development, the show finally arrived on Broadway in 2019. I bought a very last minute ticket to the first preview on Broadway. I had no expectations as I walked into the theater but - six years later - I’m still thinking about the show that I saw that night.
This story is not new: it draws on an intersection of Greek myths that have captivated humans for centuries. While that story might not be new, we were able to find something new every time we rehearsed this show. We discovered something about characters, about culture, about humanity.
There’s something specifically poignant about working on this show with high school students.
Orpheus is truly an inspiring character. He believes that if he could write a melody beautiful enough, he could change the way that the world is for the better. That’s what we all want for the students we work with.
We have the largest group of graduating seniors in the theater program that we’ve had in quite some time - a feat considering that our theaters were closed just a few short years ago.
What’s even more inspiring is that our seniors have become true leaders. In addition to some truly incredible performances that are about to take the stage, the magnificent set in front of you has been designed, built, and painted by senior Audrey Dick and her team. She’s off to Purchase College in the fall to major in Theater Design. Senior Ellie Leon has designed every costume that you’re about to see. She is off to DePaul University next year to major in Costume Design. They have collaborated with their student crews, with the directing team, and with theater professionals throughout this entire process. I’m in awe at their work.
These seniors have been on quite a journey with us. They’ve gone from the land of Oz, to the streets of NYC with “Annie,” to the Isle of the Lost in “Descendants,” a quick stop at a spelling bee, and now to the Underworld. While their time on our stage is coming to end, may they remember these stories and the importance of believing in each other, even when we think we are alone.
Thank you for supporting high school theater.
Will Karvouniaris
Director
