The curtain rises this Thursday for Hadestown, an electrifying musical that intertwines the timeless Greek myths of Orpheus and Eurydice with Hades and Persephone— all set in a hauntingly vivid post-apocalyptic landscape.

With performance rights released in spring 2024, this production marks a new venture for Director Bill Jacob as he steps out of his comfort zone.

“I tend to prefer comedies, so it’s unusual for me to be doing something that is a tragedy,” Jacob said. ”But it’s nice to have that change of pace.”

The show, which cast members are raving about as one of the most spectacular performances in recent memory, is also expected to be visually striking, bolstered by the return of the highly acclaimed lighting designer Laura Hildebrand.

“This particular ensemble has truly embraced the challenges presented over the last three shows,” Jacob said. “They’ve matured tremendously, honing their focus and enhancing their collective performance. It’s exhilarating to see their evolution—from Something Rotten to Big Fish. This latest production sets a new standard, diverging completely from the rest.”

Co-Director Caitlin Johnson agrees with Jacob.

“The show really strays from the traditional musical theater style that we typically do here,” Johnson said. “I’ve loved the different aesthetic of the show.”

Huck Jennings ’25, who plays Hermes, is excited to play a supporting character, which allows him to interact with much of the cast.

“I love his high-energy, and I feel that this is the character that best reflects me,” Jennings said. “He’s high-energy, humorous, and a good guy.”

Jennings also feels that in all of his years on the School stage, this is the most “musically talented group” he has performed with on stage.

“You don’t want to miss this one,” Jennings said.

Playing the lead role of Orpheus, Binyam Tsegai ’26 echoes Jennings’ sentiments.

“I think that this is going to be one of the best shows here at Brimmer,” Tsegai said. “This is not just me being biased, honestly. Ask others involved in the show and they will say the same. Coming into all of the rehearsals, people have always been showing their passion for this show, including learning the music and choreography.”

This show also marks Tsegai’s first starring role, which he decided to try out for after falling in love with the music and story over the summer. As a Creative Arts Diploma Program student concentrating in vocal performance, he knew he had to give it his best shot.

“I love singing,” Tsegai said. “Having a lead role means that I have more songs with just me singing, which allows me to express my love of singing. But to also do that on stage with my fellow cast members means the world to me.”

Meera Gandhi ’26, who co-stars as Eurydice, is thrilled about her first leading role at the school—and sharing the spotlight with Tsegai.

“We’ve put a lot of work in, and it’s going to be really good,” Gandhi said. “Binyam is really great to work with and nothing is ever awkward, even as there are intimate scenes we have to act out.”

Charlotte Wolfstich ’26, who plays Persephone, is also looking forward to the premier.

“I think that everybody is talented, especially the ensemble,” Wolfstich said. “It’s a show where the ensemble matters so much because they are always singing in the background of songs. I’m just really excited to see how it actually goes on to the stage once we get into costumes and the set is completely done. It’s just really exciting to see everything come together.”

Noam Andelman ’28, a ensemble member, is excited about his first musical production here.

“We have a very big part in bringing the story to life,” Andelman said. “We do a lot of the background singing, and we also lift up Orpheus’ songs.”

Johnson hopes that attendees of all ages will find something meaningful in the show.

“The show is appealing to audiences because it takes classic Greek myths that I think a lot of people know, and puts a more modern twist on their stories,” Johnson said.

Editors’ note: Performances occur Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7:00 p.m. Visit ticketstage to order tickets in advance, $5 per seat.