The Tony and Grammy Award–winning musical Hadestown opened its latest engagement at the historic Hollywood Pantages Theatre in Los Angeles. This West Coast run, scheduled to continue through November 2, brings the celebrated Broadway production to a new audience, extending its reach far beyond its New York roots and offering Southern California theatergoers a chance to experience one of the most acclaimed musicals of the past decade.
Hadestown reimagines the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice through a distinctly modern and atmospheric lens. Set in a stylized, post-apocalyptic world inspired by New Orleans jazz, depression-era aesthetics, and industrial underworld imagery, the musical uses soulful, blues-inflected music and poetic storytelling to explore themes of love, sacrifice, climate instability, and economic hardship. The book, music, and lyrics are by Anaïs Mitchell, who first conceived the show as a folk opera before its evolution into a full-scale theatrical production. Under the visionary direction of Rachel Chavkin, Hadestown has been praised for its innovative stagecraft, layered character work, and emotionally resonant score.
Since its Broadway debut in 2019, Hadestown has garnered widespread acclaim, winning eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Direction, and earning a devoted fanbase. Its unique blend of ancient myth and contemporary resonance has allowed it to thrive across multiple platforms, including an international tour and now this highly anticipated Los Angeles run. For many in the L.A. arts community, the Pantages engagement represents a rare opportunity to witness the production in a space that complements its grandeur. The Pantages Theatre, with its ornate Art Deco design and storied past, serves as an ideal setting for the show’s immersive, transportive atmosphere.
Early reviews from Los Angeles audiences and critics have been overwhelmingly positive. Attendees have praised the production’s powerful vocal performances, particularly the portrayals of Orpheus and Persephone, as well as the show’s signature choreography and striking use of lighting and set mechanics. The staging at the Pantages takes full advantage of the venue’s large proscenium arch and deep stage to create a vivid underworld landscape that feels both intimate and mythic.
In addition to its artistic acclaim, the Los Angeles run of Hadestown has made a point of emphasizing accessibility and community outreach. A series of weekday student matinees has been organized in partnership with local schools, allowing hundreds of young people to experience live theater at no cost. The production team has also coordinated with community organizations to offer discounted or complimentary tickets to underserved groups, reinforcing the show’s commitment to social inclusion and cultural engagement.
This strategy not only broadens the musical’s impact but also aligns with a growing trend among national touring productions to deepen local engagement. In an era where access to the arts is increasingly unequal, initiatives like these help ensure that world-class performances are not limited to affluent ticket-holders. For many first-time theatergoers, especially students, Hadestown offers a memorable introduction to the possibilities of musical storytelling.
The return of Hadestown to Los Angeles also reflects the city’s role as a growing hub for national stage productions. While known primarily for film and television, L.A. has in recent years cultivated a thriving theater scene, with venues like the Pantages, Ahmanson, and Geffen Playhouse drawing top-tier productions and talent. The presence of a show like Hadestown adds to that momentum, offering further evidence that live performance remains a vital part of the city’s cultural identity.
As the musical continues its limited engagement through early November, demand for tickets remains high. Fans who have followed the show since its early development, as well as newcomers drawn by its critical reputation, have flocked to the Pantages for what many describe as a transformative night at the theater. With its haunting melodies, lyrical depth, and timely themes, Hadestown continues to captivate and move audiences, proving that myth, when told well, never goes out of style.
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