Hadestown
Portland

About Hadestown

Hadestown began as a Vermont community theater project created by singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell in 2006. It evolved into a concept album in 2010, then Mitchell partnered with director Rachel Chavkin to reimagine it for the stage. The theatrical production premiered at New York Theatre Workshop in 2016, followed by runs in Edmonton and London's National Theatre before opening on Broadway at the Walter Kerr Theatre on April 17, 2019.

At the 73rd Tony Awards, Hadestown received 14 nominations—the most of any show that year—and won eight awards, including Best Musical, Best Original Score, Best Direction of a Musical, and Best Orchestrations. The original Broadway cast recording also won the 2020 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album.

The Story

Set in a Depression-era industrial underworld, Hadestown reimagines the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice through a modern lens of economic hardship and climate anxiety. Orpheus, a young dreamer and musician, falls in love with the practical, hungry Eurydice. When hard times come and Eurydice follows the promise of security to Hadestown—King Hades' underground industrial empire—Orpheus must journey to the underworld to bring her back.

Paralleling their story is the fractured marriage of Hades and Persephone, goddess of spring. Their relationship reflects the seasons themselves: Persephone spends half the year above ground, bringing warmth and life, then descends to Hadestown where Hades has grown cold and controlling. Through music, the lovers find a way to mend what's broken—if they can trust each other enough to see it through.

The Creative Team

• Music, Lyrics & Book: Anaïs Mitchell
• Original Direction: Rachel Chavkin (Tony winner)
• Original Choreography: David Neumann (Tony nominee)
• Music Supervision & Vocal Arrangements: Liam Robinson
• Orchestrations & Arrangements: Michael Chorney & Todd Sickafoose (Tony winners)
• Scenic Design: Rachel Hauck (Tony winner)
• Costume Design: Michael Krass (Tony nominee)
• Lighting Design: Bradley King (Tony winner)
• Sound Design: Nevin Steinberg & Jessica Paz (Tony winners)

About Keller Auditorium

Keller Auditorium is Portland's premier performing arts venue, located at 222 SW Clay Street in downtown Portland. Originally opened in 1917 as the Portland Public Auditorium, the renovated 2,992-seat theater hosts Broadway touring productions through the Broadway In Portland series, as well as concerts, ballet, and special events.

How to Get Hadestown Portland Tickets

1. Browse the Schedule: Select from eight performances over six days.
2. Choose Your Seats: Keller Auditorium offers orchestra, mezzanine, and balcony seating.
3. See All-In Prices: Our listings show total costs with all fees included.
4. Buy with Confidence: All purchases backed by buyer protection.

As a trusted ticket resale marketplace with over 20 years in business and the highest ratings on Trustpilot, we connect theater fans with authentic tickets at competitive prices.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hadestown in Portland

When is Hadestown playing in Portland?

Hadestown plays Keller Auditorium in Portland from January 26-31, 2027, with eight performances: evening shows Tuesday through Saturday, plus Saturday and Sunday matinees and a Sunday evening performance.

How long is Hadestown?

Hadestown runs approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one intermission.

What is Hadestown about?

Hadestown reimagines the Greek myths of Orpheus and Eurydice and Hades and Persephone. It tells the story of a young musician who journeys to the underworld to rescue his love from King Hades' industrial empire, paralleled by the story of Hades and Persephone's troubled marriage.

Did Hadestown win Tony Awards?

Yes! Hadestown won eight Tony Awards in 2019, including Best Musical, Best Original Score, Best Direction of a Musical, and Best Orchestrations. It received 14 nominations—the most of any show that year.

Who wrote Hadestown?

Anaïs Mitchell wrote the music, lyrics, and book for Hadestown. She's a Vermont-based folk singer-songwriter who originally created the show as a community theater project in 2006. Director Rachel Chavkin collaborated with Mitchell to develop it for the professional stage.

What style of music is in Hadestown?

The score blends folk, jazz, blues, and New Orleans-style music with choral arrangements. Mitchell's songwriting has roots in American folk traditions, and the orchestrations evoke a smoky, timeless atmosphere.

Is Hadestown appropriate for children?

Hadestown is generally appropriate for ages 8 and up, though parental discretion is advised. The show deals with mature themes including death, loss, and complex relationships. The production includes atmospheric haze and occasional flashing lights.

Where is Keller Auditorium located?

Keller Auditorium is located at 222 SW Clay Street, Portland, OR 97201, in downtown Portland near the South Park Blocks. It's accessible by MAX Light Rail and Portland Streetcar.

Is Hadestown the same on tour as on Broadway?

The national tour features the same creative vision, score, and staging as the Broadway production. While cast members differ, the tour recreates the Tony Award-winning design and direction.

What are the most famous songs from Hadestown?

Standout songs include “Way Down Hadestown,” “Wait for Me,” “Flowers,” “Why We Build the Wall,” “All I've Ever Known,” and “Road to Hell.” The show's music has accumulated millions of streams on Spotify and other platforms.

Is there parking at Keller Auditorium?

Street parking and nearby parking garages are available in downtown Portland. The Smart Park garage at 730 SW 10th Avenue is a convenient option. Public transit via MAX or Portland Streetcar is also recommended.

Are there accessibility services available?

Keller Auditorium offers accessible seating, assistive listening devices, and other accommodations. ASL interpretation and open captioning are available on select dates. Contact the Portland'5 Box Office at 503-248-4335 for specific accessibility needs.