Reeve Carney Sets Final Performance in Broadway’s Hadestown

In a bittersweet announcement that has left fans both heartbroken and excited, Reeve Carney, the actor who brought the character of Orpheus to life in Broadway’s Tony-winning production of “Hadestown,” will be bidding farewell to the iconic role on November 19 at the Walter Kerr Theatre. The departure of Carney, who has been with the show since its inception in 2017, marks the end of an era for this beloved musical. As we prepare to say goodbye to a remarkable Orpheus, the theatre world eagerly awaits the revelation of his successor.

An Unforgettable Journey

Reeve Carney’s journey as Orpheus began at Edmonton’s Citadel Theatre in 2017, where he first breathed life into this mythical character. His portrayal of the young musician who embarks on a perilous journey to rescue his beloved Eurydice was nothing short of mesmerizing. Carney’s Orpheus made its way to London’s West End in 2018 and finally graced the Broadway stage in 2019. Along this incredible journey, he left an indelible mark on the character and the show itself.

A Tribute from the Creators

Composer Anaïs Mitchell, the genius behind the music and lyrics of “Hadestown,” shared her heartfelt thoughts on Carney’s departure: “It feels so deep and tough to say goodbye to Reeve, who has been with the show since Edmonton in 2017. His Orpheus underwent a massive reimagining en route to Broadway, and Reeve, in his graceful way, taught us so much about who that character wanted to become. There’s no one the phrase ‘earth angel’ describes more exactly. Sending mad love and gratitude as he flies off to his next earth mission.”

Director Rachel Chavkin, who played a pivotal role in bringing “Hadestown” to life, also paid tribute: “Reeve helped define both stories at the center of this show—the cosmic love story of a young man who changes the laws of the space-time continuum to save his lover, and the political story of a ‘poor boy’ who gets angry enough to question ‘the king.’ His extraordinary musicianship as a guitarist and singer was an endless source of inspiration to both Anaïs and me in the creation of the show, and his elegant leadership as an actor and company member, both onstage and off, will be deeply missed.”

Reeve Carney’s Gratitude

Reeve Carney himself expressed his deep gratitude: “My gratitude goes out to Anaïs Mitchell and all who have touched this show with their divine intention. To my fellow castmates, who have been with me in the trenches, giving of themselves freely and unceasingly, on and off the stage. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. And to our incredible audiences here at The Walter Kerr Theatre… It has been an honor bringing this story to life for you all night after night over these many years.”

The Current Stellar Cast

As Reeve Carney takes his final bow, the current cast of “Hadestown” continues to shine. The production stars Tony winner Lillias White as Hermes, Solea Pfeiffer as Eurydice, Betty Who as Persephone, and Phillip Boykin as Hades. Joining them are Amelia Cormack, Lindsey Hailes, and Brit West as the Fates. The chorus of Workers is portrayed by Emily Afton, Malcolm Armwood, Chibueze Ihumoa, Alex Puette, and Grace Yoo. The cast also includes swings Sojourner Brown, Brandon Cameron, Tara Jackson, Max Kumangai, Alex Lugo, and Tanner Ray Wilson.

A Musical Journey of Myth and Mortals

“Hadestown,” a musical by singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell, seamlessly weaves the timeless myths of Orpheus and Eurydice with that of Hades and Persephone. The story explores the intertwining actions and consequences of gods and mortals, creating a rich and captivating narrative that has resonated deeply with audiences.

The Creative Dream Team

Behind the scenes, the creative team has been instrumental in shaping the magic of “Hadestown.” With Tony-winning set designer Rachel Hauck, Tony-nominated costume designer Michael Krass, Tony-winning lighting designer Bradley King, Tony-winning sound designers Nevin Steinberg and Jessica Paz, choreographer David Neumann, and dramaturg Ken Cerniglia, the production boasts a stellar lineup of talent. Musical supervision and vocal arrangements are by Liam Robinson, with arrangements and orchestrations by Tony winners Michael Chorney and Todd Sickafoose.

Conclusion

As Reeve Carney’s final performance in “Hadestown” draws near, the theatre community celebrates the incredible journey he has undertaken with this beloved production. His departure leaves big shoes to fill, but the legacy of his Orpheus will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.

Get ready to witness the final act of Reeve Carney’s remarkable portrayal of Orpheus before he takes his leave. The world of Broadway will surely be watching and waiting to see who will step into the spotlight next.

FAQs

1. Who will replace Reeve Carney as Orpheus in “Hadestown”?

• The replacement for Reeve Carney in the role of Orpheus has not been announced yet.

2. When did Reeve Carney begin playing Orpheus in “Hadestown”?

• Reeve Carney started playing Orpheus in 2017 at Edmonton’s Citadel Theatre.

3. What is the premise of “Hadestown”?

• “Hadestown” is a musical that interweaves the myths of Orpheus and Eurydice with that of Hades and Persephone, exploring the consequences of the actions of gods and mortals.

4. Who are some of the current cast members of “Hadestown”?

• The current cast includes Lillias White, Solea Pfeiffer, Betty Who, Phillip Boykin, and others in various roles.

5. Who is the creative team behind “Hadestown”?

• The creative team includes set designer Rachel Hauck, costume designer Michael Krass, lighting designer Bradley King, sound designers Nevin Steinberg and Jessica Paz, choreographer David Neumann, and dramaturg Ken Cerniglia, among others.