HadesTown Teen Edition

In this confident and atmospheric production of Hadestown Teen Edition, the young cast take on Anaïs Mitchell’s modern myth with a level of emotional intelligence and musicality that belies their age. What emerges is a show that feels both urgent and heartfelt — a story of love, labour, and trust told with striking clarity. This level of quality is very much the trademark of Stoke Youth who deliver excellence production after production.

Everything from the set to costume to lighting was spot on and congratulations must go to the director, MD, choreographer and the rest of the production team and crew for the quality of what they delivered. The perfect atmosphere was created with a touch of a steampunk vibe as the story of despair and hope played out.

As always at Stoke Youth, the quality of the acting leaves us all excited to see where these talented young people will progress to. The central pairing anchor the production beautifully. Orpheus (Xavier Harrison) brings a gentle sincerity to the role, his vocals bright and controlled, particularly in the more exposed melodic lines. Eurydice (Ella Black) offers a grounded, quietly powerful counterpoint; her descent into Hadestown is played with a maturity that gives the tragedy real weight. Together, they create a believable and affecting partnership.

Hades (Ollie Acres) commands the stage with a low, resonant authority, shaping the Underworld with a presence that is both intimidating and compelling. This isn’t the first time I have looked at an SY performer with slight disbelief that they are part of a youth society! Opposite him, Persephone (Maia Holmes) bursts onto the scene with vibrant energy and sharp comic timing. Their scenes together are among the production’s strongest, balancing tension with flashes of warmth.

Hermes (Zac Wardle) guides the audience with ease, offering clear narration and a confident sense of rhythm. The Fates (Gracie Galpin, Laila Norcup & Anna Pye), meanwhile, deliver tight harmonies and unified movement, weaving in and out of scenes with precision. Their vocal blend worked very well across the production.

The Workers Chorus provide the show’s industrial heartbeat. Their physicality is committed, their transitions clean, and their collective presence gives Hadestown its oppressive, mechanical atmosphere. The ensemble numbers feel cohesive and well‑rehearsed, with strong attention to detail.

It is great to see returning performers in a production to see their range and development alongside newer faces that you can look forward to seeing again

This staging of Hadestown Teen Edition succeeds because it marries youthful enthusiasm with careful direction and strong ensemble work. The cast handle the show’s emotional and musical demands with confidence, and the result is a production that resonates long after the final note. Another Stoke Youth hit!

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