Hadestown Review: Epic Broadway Musical Recommended for Ages 10+
Original Broadway Cast of Hadestown on stage
This isn't your typical Broadway musical. Hadestown reimagines the ancient Greek myths of Orpheus and Eurydice and Hades and Persephone through a folk-opera lens that's both timeless and achingly relevant. With its hypnotic score, stunning staging, and powerful performances, this Tony Award-winning show proves why some stories need to be told again and again.
What Makes Hadestown Special:
Incredible music that blends folk, jazz, and New Orleans-inspired sounds
Dynamic staging with a rotating set that draws you into the underworld
Powerful performances from the entire ensemble
Themes about love, hope, and why we keep telling stories
Layered storytelling that resonates differently each time you see it
Our reviewers found this production deeply moving. "Absolutely beautiful piece of theater. Very impressed by the singing and the acting, the lighting, the cast."
The highlight? The way the show evolves with each viewing. "This was my second time to see the show. I've seen it a number of times. It resonated with me a little bit more today. Seeing it again with my daughter, it just was a really moving experience."
The musical deals with universal themes that feel especially powerful right now. "It's a show that deals with love. When something bad happens or just something happens in history, you have to just keep teaching or telling the story."
Your Family Guide to Hadestown
Theatre for Family Audiences (TFA) Rating: Family Guided
Recommended Age: 10+
Conversation Starter: After
Marvelous Family Pick: ⭐ Yes
What Parents Need to Know
This is an unexpected love story with incredible music and staging. "It may not be what you think it is. It is an unexpected love story. The music is incredible. The staging is so dynamic."
Content to be aware of:
Complex themes about death, loss, and the underworld
Some darker moments befitting a journey to Hades
Layered storytelling that requires attention and emotional maturity
References to mythology that younger children may not follow
What Makes This Special for Families
"Every time there's a new cast change or somebody's added or a different time in our history, the lines hit differently. And so if you haven't seen it in a long time, I encourage you to come back and see it."
Great for kids who:
Are interested in mythology and storytelling
Can handle more mature themes presented thoughtfully
Appreciate music-driven narratives
Are ready for shows with emotional depth
The Bottom Line
"I would recommend taking anybody ages 10 and up. Bring your family so they could come and enjoy it."
Even parents who typically prefer lighter fare found themselves moved. "Even my husband, who's more of a PG audience member than I am, 15 minutes into the show, turned around and said, 'This is really good.'"
Hadestown is a show that stays with you. "We'll stick with you, stay with you, and help you to grow. Everything was just superb. You need to check it out."
