Hadestown

Hadestown, is rocking the Lyric Theatre and guess who's the new Queen of the Underworld? None other than BRIT Award-winner Nicola Roberts from Girls Aloud! We caught the show to see how the pop princess fares in this cool, bluesy musical.

This show started life as a concept album before taking the theatre world by storm, winning a stack of Tonys on Broadway. Now it’s here, keeping its totally unique style a mix of jazz, folk, and gospel that sets it apart from every other West End show.

The stage itself looks like a dusty old American saloon with a band playing live right there on the set! The whole stage spins around, taking you from the world above down to the factory-like Underworld. Director Rachel Chavkin keeps things moving fast, with the cast pulling off some seriously sharp dance moves choreographed by David Neumann.

Nicola joins a strong cast including Cedric Neal as the smooth-talking guide, Hermes, and Chris Jarman as the big boss, Hades. Desmonda Cathabel and Dylan Wood play the tragic young lovers, Eurydice and Orpheus.

Nicola is strong on vocals, especially on the party track “Livin’ It Up On Top,” where she shows off her rhythmic skill. She brings a lovely sultry, bluesy tone that fits the score.

Nicola plays Persephone with a bit of a cool reserve. She’s elegant, but sometimes she holds back a little, especially in the angry scenes with Hades. Jarman’s Hades is super menacing, so the clash between them is all about power. Nicola’s interpretation focuses on her inner turmoil, showing the Queen’s quiet sadness over being trapped. While some of her smaller movements get lost when the music gets loud (and it gets LOUD!), her voice makes her a credible and exciting new addition to this mythic hit.

Hadestown is set to stay. Desmonda Cathabel is a smart, grounded Eurydice, and Cedric Neal’s voice is pure gold. Yes, the music can sometimes drown out the dialogue, but the show’s energy and amazing singing keep this journey to the underworld feeling fresh and fabulous. Go see the Pop Queen make her mark!