Grammy Award-Winner Allison Russell to Join Hadestown as Persephone |
GRAMMY AWARD WINNER
ALLISON RUSSELL
AS ‘PERSEPHONE’
IN THE TONY AWARD®-WINNING BEST MUSICAL
“HADESTOWN”
Producers Mara Isaacs, Dale Franzen, Hunter Arnold, and Tom Kirdahy are thrilled to announce that Grammy Award-winning artist Allison Russell will be stepping into the role of Persephone in the Tony® and Grammy Award-winning Best Musical, Hadestown. Russell, known for her critically acclaimed albums Outside Child and The Returner, will make her Broadway debut on Tuesday, November 12, at the Walter Kerr Theatre (219 W 48th Street).
Reflecting on her deep connection with Hadestown, Russell shared a poignant story:
“I first heard Anaïs Mitchell sing ‘Why We Build The Wall’ in 2008 at the Lobero Theatre in Santa Barbara, CA. She was opening for my partner’s band JT & The Clouds. I was transfixed. When Anaïs told me later that night that she was working on a ‘folk opera’ based on the myth of Orpheus & Eurydice, all my hairs stood on end — I had a premonition that it would become a work that would outlive us all."
Russell's journey with Hadestown spans over a decade, from its 2010 album release to its Broadway success. Now, stepping into the role of Persephone—a character she has explored in both poetry and song—marks a full-circle moment:
“It’s impossible to convey how deeply meaningful, resonant, and full circle it is to make my Broadway debut as Persephone. I am honored to join the extraordinary ensemble and become part of this living, growing legacy.”
Russell will take over the role from Yola, who will perform her final show on Sunday, October 20. Hadestown alum Lana Gordon will return to the role from Tuesday, October 22, through Sunday, November 10, before passing the torch to Russell.
For headshots and additional media, click here.
Hadestown's Global Impact
Entering its 5th year on Broadway at the Walter Kerr Theatre, Hadestown continues to captivate audiences with its modern take on the ancient myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. The current cast includes Jordan Fisher as Orpheus, Stephanie Mills as Hermes, Phillip Boykin as Hades, Maia Reficco as Eurydice, and Yola as Persephone. The ensemble features an exceptional chorus of actors, dancers, and singers, making each performance a vibrant, unforgettable experience.
Tickets are available at the Walter Kerr box office and online at SeatGeek.
A World of Hadestown Expands
Hadestown originated as Anaïs Mitchell’s indie theater project, which toured Vermont before being adapted into an acclaimed album. With the visionary collaboration of director Rachel Chavkin, Hadestown has become a genre-defying musical, blending modern American folk music with New Orleans-inspired jazz. The show intertwines the love stories of Orpheus and Eurydice with that of King Hades and his wife Persephone, crafting a powerful narrative that pits industry against nature and fear against love.
Hadestown's success extends beyond Broadway, with the musical recently completing a three-year North American tour. The show has also returned to the West End at the Lyric Theatre in London and is set to open new productions in Sydney, Melbourne, and Amsterdam in Spring 2025.
Allison Russell is a Grammy Award-winning artist renowned for weaving stories of resilience and liberation through her music. From her powerful debut solo album Outside Child to the joyous, soulful The Returner, Russell has consistently redefined what artistry means in the 21st century. Her accolades include a Grammy win for Best American Roots Performance for "Eve Was Black," multiple Juno Awards, and numerous honors from the Americana Music Association and the International Folk Music Awards.
Russell is committed to using her platform to elevate historically marginalized voices. Along with the Rainbow Coalition Band, a collective of Black and POC, queer, and marginalized musicians, she continues to spread her message of the "Beloved Community" through music.
The production also welcomes the return of Lana Gordon, who will reprise her role as Persephone starting October 22. Gordon’s Broadway credits include Chicago: The Musical, The Lion King, and Jesus Christ Superstar. Known for her electrifying performances, she brings a fresh and powerful energy to every role she inhabits. Gordon’s return to Hadestown is a must-see for theatergoers.
As Hadestown continues to evolve, the addition of Allison Russell to the cast marks an exciting new chapter. With her unmistakable talent and unique connection to the role of Persephone, Russell is set to bring a new dimension to the musical's spellbinding story.
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