THE TONY AND GRAMMY AWARD-WINNING MUSICAL PLAYING AT ROYAL THEATRE CARRÉ – MUST END 6 SEPTEMBER
The internationally acclaimed Tony and Grammy Award-winning musical by singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and director Rachel Chavkin is currently playing in the Netherlands until 6 September – don’t miss it!
This Broadway original is produced in the Netherlands in its original language (English), with a UK and Dutch mixed cast, and with direct involvement from the original creative team.
Hadestown premiered in June 2025 at Royal Theatre Carré for a strictly limited season. This unique production is initiated and led by Royal Theatre Carré under the banner of Broadway in Carré, which brings the highest quality West End and Broadway productions to the Netherlands.
Meet the cast of Hadestown
The role of Hermes, the charismatic and quick-witted narrator who guides the audience through the highs and lows of this mythic journey, is shared by Claudia de Breij and Maarten Heijmans. Claudia is a comedian, author, radio host, singer, and theatre creator and makes her musical debut in Hadestown. Maarten is an acclaimed actor and singer, best known for his portrayal of Ramses Shaffy in the television series Ramses, among other notable roles and work as a singer and musician.
Jeangu Macrooy (Jesus Christ Superstar, Eurovision 2021) brings his rich vocals and emotional depth to Orpheus, an idealistic musician whose belief in the power of song drives him to defy fate. Sara Afiba (De Hospita) plays Eurydice, a fiercely independent young woman struggling to survive in a world that offers her little mercy.
Edwin Jonker (Goede Tijden Slechte Tijden, Jesus Christ Superstar) as Hades embodies the powerful yet conflicted King of the Underworld, ruling over a world of industry and order. Joy Wielkens, a Dutch actress, singer and theatermaker brings fire and longing to the role of the goddess Persephone, who is torn between two worlds—only she can make spring come again.
They are joined by a stellar company of some of the greatest artists from across the Netherlands and London’s West End, featuring a strong mix of Dutch and UK talent. The mysterious Fates, played by Jony Ayton-Kent, April Darby, and Aïcha Gill, weave destiny with haunting harmonies, foreshadowing the story’s twists. The roles of the workers and swings include Tiago Dhondt Bamberger, Winny Herbert, Maxime Karsten, Willemijn Maandag, Simon Oskarsson, Melissa Otten, Lucas Schilperoort, Christopher Short, and Micky Vermeer.
A unique, international casting process
Casting for Hadestown was an intensive, months-long process, with auditions running simultaneously in London and Amsterdam. The casting team, including directors, musical supervisors, and producers, deliberately looked beyond the traditional musical theatre world.
Madeleine van der Zwaan, director at Royal Theatre Carré:
“In Hadestown, it’s all about authenticity and individuality—being who you are and staying true to yourself. Each character has a clear identity, but every actor brings their own intent and personal essence to the role. This was a key focus in the audition process, beyond just vocal and acting ability.”
Rather than following expected industry routes, the selection process focused on authenticity and individual artistry. The result is a strong ensemble, with a mix of established musical stars, actors, musicians, and vocal talents, forming a dynamic and diverse company. The final cast reflects the remarkable depth of talent in the Netherlands, with a majority of Dutch artists—an outcome that was not predetermined but emerged naturally through the audition process. They are joined on stage by several original UK cast members that starred in Hadestown’s West End premiere.
The sound of Hadestown
The sound of Hadestown blends modern folk with New Orleans-inspired jazz, creating a musical experience unlike any other. The Original Broadway Cast Recording remains one of the most streamed cast albums ever, with over 350 million streams to date.
Beyond its captivating sound, Hadestown stands out for its socially relevant themes, particularly through its lyrics. Songs like “Why We Build the Wall” explore issues of economic disparity, fear-driven politics, and social division. Anaïs Mitchell’s lyrics throughout the musical tackle themes of hope, resilience, and systemic injustice, making Hadestown not just an artistic masterpiece but also a powerful commentary on contemporary society.
A Broadway phenomenon
Hadestown intertwines two love stories: the journey of Orpheus and Eurydice, and the complex relationship between Hades and Persephone. Through the voice of Hermes, the audience is taken on an emotional ride to the underworld and back, exploring themes of faith, doubt, love, and fear.
The New York production of Hadestown is the longest-running show in the 100-year history of the Walter Kerr Theater and continues to be one of Broadway’s top-grossing musicals. The London production opened in February 2024 to huge critical acclaim at the Lyric Theatre, following a sold-out run at the Royal National Theatre. This Dutch premiere marks a rare moment in musical theatre—a Broadway original produced in the Netherlands.
Tickets and additional information are available via Hadestown.nl.
Royal Theatre Carré Amsterdam
Royal Theatre Carré is the most iconic theatre in the Netherlands. Renowned for its exclusive programming of national and international theatre productions of the highest caliber, Carré offers an unparalleled theatrical experience across all genres—from circus and cabaret to pop concerts and opera. For over 137 years, more than 400,000 visitors annually have flocked to the famous theatre on the Amstel River to experience the magic of Carré.
Scenphotography/Images: Danny Kaan
Tickets and additional information are available via Hadestown.nl.