Dynamic Ensemble Steps into Mythic Roles (Image Credits: Cdn01.justjared.com)
New York City – Broadway’s enduring hit Hadestown opened a dynamic new phase at the Walter Kerr Theatre on March 3 with the debut of its latest principal performers, showcased through evocative cast portraits.[1][2]
Dynamic Ensemble Steps into Mythic Roles
The production introduced a fresh lineup of talent to its core characters that evening. Joshua Colley assumed the role of the hopeful Orpheus, while Jordan Tyson brought Eurydice to life. Gary Dourdan marked his Broadway debut as the commanding Hades, J. Harrison Ghee portrayed the narrator Hermes, and Gaby Moreno embodied Persephone.[1][3]
These actors succeeded a distinguished group that concluded performances on March 1. Jack Wolfe had played Orpheus, Morgan Dudley served as Eurydice, Kurt Elling as Hermes, Paulo Szot as Hades, and Allison Russell as Persephone. The transition refreshed the show’s seventh year on Broadway.[4]
Joshua Colley’s Emotional Homecoming
Joshua Colley returned to Broadway after more than a decade away, last appearing as Gavroche in Les Misérables alongside a young Gaten Matarazzo. His prior credits include Disney Channel projects and the film Descendants: The Rise of Red, where he shared the screen with outgoing Eurydice performer Morgan Dudley.[1]
Ahead of opening night, Colley expressed profound gratitude on social media. “Orpheus 🌹 It starts TONIGHT!!! I don’t have the words to describe how grateful I am to be playing this dream of a role with this dream of a company. Last time I was on Broadway I was 12 years old so this is very full circle,” he wrote.[1]
Award-Winning Performers Bolster the Gods
J. Harrison Ghee, a Tony and Grammy Award winner, took on Hermes, the storyteller guiding audiences through the tale. Gaby Moreno, holder of a Grammy and two Latin Grammys, made her Broadway debut as Persephone in this folk-jazz infused production. Gary Dourdan, familiar from television and film, stepped into Hades for the first time on the Great White Way.[4][5]
Jordan Tyson, recognized as a Broadway breakout, infused Eurydice with her rising star power. The ensemble also features Jessie Shelton, Kay Trinidad, and Brit West as the Fates, alongside a chorus of Workers and swings to support the mythic narrative.[3]
| New Cast | Role | Previous |
|---|---|---|
| Joshua Colley | Orpheus | Jack Wolfe |
| Jordan Tyson | Eurydice | Morgan Dudley |
| Gary Dourdan | Hades | Paulo Szot |
| J. Harrison Ghee | Hermes | Kurt Elling |
| Gaby Moreno | Persephone | Allison Russell |
Hadestown’s Timeless Appeal Endures
Anaïs Mitchell’s book, music, and lyrics, directed by Rachel Chavkin, weave two love stories: the youthful dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice alongside the ruling Hades and Persephone. The musical earned eight Tony Awards in 2019, including Best Musical, and a Grammy.[3]
Global reach expanded with a three-year North American tour ending in 2024, runs in the West End, and productions in Sydney, Melbourne, Amsterdam, and upcoming in Brazil. Photographs by Matthew Murphy captured the new cast in rehearsal and portrait sessions, heightening anticipation for their run.[2]
- Seventh year at Walter Kerr Theatre
- Blends folk and New Orleans jazz
- Pits industry against nature, fear against love
- Tickets available through spring
Key Takeaways
- A powerhouse mix of Broadway veterans, award-winners, and debuts revitalizes Hadestown’s principal roles.
- Joshua Colley’s return after 12 years adds personal resonance to Orpheus.
- The show’s mythic storytelling continues to captivate worldwide audiences.
Hadestown proves its staying power with this infusion of new energy, inviting theatergoers to journey to the underworld once more. What draws you to this modern retelling of ancient myths? Share your thoughts in the comments.
