Podcast Summary: MickeyJoTheatre Episode - "Who's going to be in HADESTOWN? | The show's current and upcoming West End casting news explained"

Release Date: February 3, 2025

In this engaging episode of "MickeyJoTheatre," host Mickey-Jo delves deep into the latest casting developments surrounding the acclaimed musical Hadestown in the West End. Offering a comprehensive analysis, Mickey-Jo not only covers the current cast but also explores upcoming changes and their implications for both the London production and future global performances.

1. Introduction to Hadestown’s West End Return

Mickey-Jo kicks off the episode by expressing his enthusiasm for Hadestown, a modern retelling of the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. He highlights the musical's unique blend of contemporary issues—such as climate change and political struggles—with a rich Americana folk and Louisiana jazz score, all under the masterful direction of Rachel Chavkin.

"Hadestown encourages performers to perform the show using their own native accents... It feels timeless and it feels beyond geography." (00:02)

2. Current West End Cast Overview

The current casting lineup at London's Lyric Theatre is meticulously detailed. Mickey-Jo introduces prominent cast members, emphasizing the diverse backgrounds they bring to their roles:

• Orpheus and Eurydice: Dylan Wood and Madeline Charlemagne currently embody these lead roles. Dylan, a Scottish performer, adds a unique flavor to Orpheus by incorporating his native accent, deviating from the traditionally expected pronunciations.

  "Every time Orpheus says yes or yeah in the show, Dylan instead says I." (00:05)

• Hermes: Melanie LaBarrie continues in this role, leveraging her Trinidadian accent to deliver a powerful performance. Mickey-Jo commends her for pioneering the use of diverse accents in West End productions.

  "Melanie LaBarrie as Hermes in her own Trinidadian accent is so powerful to me." (00:16)

• Hades and Persephone: Trevor Dionne Nicholas and Rachel Tucker portray these complex characters. Mickey-Jo notes Trevor's extensive Broadway experience and Rachel's dynamic presence, anticipating fresh interpretations in their performances.

• Fates and Ensemble Members: Allies Daniel, Bella Brown, Francesca Daniella Baker, and others contribute to the rich tapestry of the production, with Mickey-Jo praising the ensemble's versatility and talent.

3. Upcoming Broadway Principals’ West End Engagement

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the exciting news that Hadestown's original Broadway leads—Reeve Carney (Orpheus), Eva Noblezada (Eurydice), Amber Gray (Persephone), Patrick Page (Hades), and Andre de Shields (Hermes)—will be joining the West End cast for a special four-week period from February 11 to March 9. This stint aims to film a professional recording of the production, dubbed the "pro-shot."

"From February until March, the original Broadway principals... are going to be coming to London to recreate their performances in order for the show to be filmed." (00:13)

Mickey-Jo expresses personal excitement, mentioning his own plans to attend performances during this period, and anticipates that this collaboration will blend the seasoned Broadway interpretations with the established West End ensemble.

4. Announcement of New Cast Members Post-March

Post the Broadway principals' engagement, a new set of cast members will take over the principal roles. Mickey-Jo introduces:

• Desmond Decathabel as Eurydice: Bringing a background from Mamma Mia. I Have a Dream and roles in From Here to Eternity and Miss Saigon, Desmond is poised to add depth and vulnerability to Eurydice.

  "Desmonda Catabel opposite him is just as exciting. That is thrilling casting." (00:25)

• Victoria Hamilton Barrett as Persephone: Known for roles in Cinderella and Chorus Line, Victoria is expected to deliver a powerful and heartfelt performance, especially in pivotal scenes depicting the strained relationship between Persephone and Hades.

• Chris Jarman as Hades: With experience in The Book of Mormon and Wicked, Chris is anticipated to bring a compelling intensity to the role of Hades.

• Cedric Neal as Hermes: An Olivier Award-nominated performer, Cedric's portrayal of Hermes is highly anticipated, promising a blend of vocal brilliance and charismatic presence.

• Desmond Decathabel as Eurydice and Cedric Neal as Hermes will join existing ensemble members, ensuring continuity and harmony within the production.

5. Emphasis on Casting Diversity and Authentic Accents

A recurring theme throughout the episode is Hadestown's commitment to diversity and authenticity in casting. Mickey-Jo celebrates the use of native accents and the representation of various gender identities within the cast, enhancing the production's universal and timeless appeal.

"You have all of these different voices, all of these different vocal ranges represented in the musical theatre world... making it feel like a story that could be happening anywhere." (00:10)

He also commends the deliberate avoidance of "stunt casting," noting that Hadestown maintains its integrity by primarily featuring theater stars rather than crossing over into other entertainment sectors.

6. Speculations on Future Productions and Casting Trends

Looking ahead, Mickey-Jo speculates on the implications of the West End's casting choices for future global productions, such as the imminent Amsterdam run. He ponders whether the diversity and talent pool from London will influence casting in other regions, expressing hope for representation of local Dutch talent despite the English-language performances.

"I am really hoping that there is representation of brilliant Dutch musical theatre stars in the Netherlands production of Hadestown." (00:30)

He also touches upon the recent trend of integrating musicians and singers into theatrical roles, questioning whether Hadestown might adopt similar strategies in its London lineup in the future.

7. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Mickey-Jo wraps up the episode by reiterating his excitement for the evolving cast of Hadestown and the opportunities it presents for diverse and dynamic performances. He encourages listeners to engage with the show, highlighting the anticipated professional recording and the enriched experience brought by the rotating casts.

"There is a world of brilliant options. There is so much for us to look forward to." (00:35)

He invites both seasoned fans and newcomers to share their thoughts and experiences, fostering a community around the musical's vibrant productions.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• "Hadestown encourages performers to perform the show using their own native accents... It feels timeless and it feels beyond geography." — Mickey Jo (00:02)

• "Every time Orpheus says yes or yeah in the show, Dylan instead says I." — Mickey Jo (00:05)

• "Melanie LaBarrie as Hermes in her own Trinidadian accent is so powerful to me." — Mickey Jo (00:16)

• "From February until March, the original Broadway principals... are going to be coming to London to recreate their performances in order for the show to be filmed." — Mickey Jo (00:13)

• "You have all of these different voices, all of these different vocal ranges represented in the musical theatre world... making it feel like a story that could be happening anywhere." — Mickey Jo (00:10)

• "Desmonda Catabel opposite him is just as exciting. That is thrilling casting." — Mickey Jo (00:25)

• "I am really hoping that there is representation of brilliant Dutch musical theatre stars in the Netherlands production of Hadestown." — Mickey Jo (00:30)

• "There is a world of brilliant options. There is so much for us to look forward to." — Mickey Jo (00:35)

Final Remarks

MickeyJoTheatre's episode offers a thorough and enthusiastic exploration of Hadestown's dynamic casting landscape in the West End. By highlighting both current and incoming talent, along with the production's dedication to diversity and authenticity, Mickey-Jo paints a vibrant picture of why Hadestown continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. Whether you're a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, this episode provides valuable insights and sparks excitement for the musical's ongoing journey.