BHS drama brings ‘Hadestown’ to Blaine

Opening night of Blaine High School Theater Arts Program’s production of “Hadestown: Teen Edition” is set for 7 p.m. Thursday, March 6 at the Performing Arts Center, kicking off two weeks of performances from Blaine’s talented young thespians.

“Hadestown” is a modern musical adaptation of two ancient Greek myths: Orpheus and Eurydice, and King Hades and Persephone. Written by Anaïs Mitchell, the production originally premiered off-Broadway in 2016 before making its Broadway debut in 2019, winning eight Tony Awards.

BHS drama teacher Olivia Theilemann said the script has been a big step up for her actors, and said she’s grateful to get the rights to such a modern play.

“The kids really rose to the occasion,” Theilemann said. “This show puts them on the same level of opportunity that larger schools in bigger areas get exposure to, so I think they’re excited about that.”

One of the biggest challenges has been the sheer amount of singing in this production.

“Music is woven through every moment,” Theilemann said.

Walker Hennig and Taryn Zaccheo play Orpheus and Eurydice, Autumn Scheib plays Hermes, and Davian James and Helena Macarthur play Hades and Persephone. The trio of AnnaLisa Marshall, Keira Wydur and Danika Morecombe play The Fates.

“Hadestown” will feature a live ensemble band featuring students and faculty, including recently retired Blaine High School band director Bob Gray on the trombone. Andy Marshall will direct the music, with assistance from Mike Dahl. Juliette Machado and Theilemann will direct choreography, with Mackenzie Cottnair as assistant student director.

Theilemann said the whole cast and crew are excited to once again fill the Performing Arts Center for the local community, and expose Blaine to the cutting edge of Broadway musicals.

“I thought that this was a great opportunity to do this really contemporary and challenging show that’s extremely popular on Broadway, but do it up in Blaine,” Thielemann said. “Get some new titles out there and see if we can have any unique experiences for our audience.”

“Hadestown: Teen Edition” will continue its 7 p.m. shows this weekend and next, March 6-8 and March 13-15, with 2 p.m. matinees on Sunday March 9 and 16. Tickets are on sale now at bit.ly/3Xv1Nk6 for $12 general admission or $10 for students, seniors and military.