Hadestown: Teen Edition

Stand performing arts ministry, July 2026

Roles: Director, Intimacy Coordinator, Fight Choreographer, Scenic Designer

PHOTOGRAPHS BY Ellen Kay Photography

Bringing the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice to life, Hadestown: Teen Edition explores the enduring power of love, the danger of fear, and the courage it takes to hold onto hope in a world that often seems determined to extinguish it. Our production drew visual inspiration from America’s Second Industrial Revolution, using industrial imagery, a minimalist scenic design, and a central turntable to create a world caught between progress and tradition, freedom and security. Contrasting the warmth and changing seasons of the Overworld with the fiery intensity of the Underworld, we explored the interconnectedness of these two worlds and the systems that shape the lives of the people within them.

Beyond the production itself, Hadestown was an opportunity to create an immersive educational experience for our students. Over the course of a three-week intensive, two full casts rehearsed seven hours a day, diving deeply into the complexities of their characters, the relationships that drive the story, and the ensemble work that makes this musical so distinctive. Through workshops and collaboration with industry professionals, students explored character development, storytelling, movement, and the art of building a cohesive theatrical ensemble. The goal was not simply to put on a show, but to give each student the tools to approach their work with curiosity, intention, and a deeper understanding of the craft.

At its heart, this production reflects a belief that educational theatre is about more than the final performance. It is about creating an environment where young artists can take creative risks, learn from experienced professionals, discover new dimensions of their abilities, and develop the confidence to tell meaningful stories together. Just as Hadestown reminds us that stories are worth telling again and again, this intensive celebrated the power of theatre to bring people together, challenge our perspectives, and remind us why we keep creating.