Hadestown Chicago
The Tony Award-winning acclaimed Broadway musical Hadestown will be performed at the CIBC Theatre in Chicago, IL, from May 6 to May 18, 2025.
A Complete Hadestown Plot Overview & Summary Explained
Hadestown is a musical blending the Greek myths of Orpheus & Eurydice and Hades & Persephone, set in a modern industrial underworld. Written by Anaïs Mitchell, the story examines love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of power.
Act 1: The Descent
Orpheus, a talented musician, falls for Eurydice, but she turns to the underworld to escape poverty. Once there, she’s trapped by Hades, ruler of the underworld, while his strained relationship with Persephone mirrors the eternal seasons.
Act 2: The Rescue
Orpheus enters the underworld to rescue Eurydice. Hades offers a deal: if Orpheus doesn’t look back at Eurydice, she’ll be freed. He fails, and Eurydice is lost forever.
Critical Reception
Hadestown has been described by critics as a “haunting and hopeful theatrical experience.” The New York Times called it a “gut-punching” musical with a richly layered score blending jazz, folk, and New Orleans-inspired sounds. It continues to be celebrated for its compelling storytelling and groundbreaking approach to reimagining Greek mythology.
Hadestown Reviews: What Are Critics Saying?
Hadestown has received rave reviews from both critics and audiences. The musical is celebrated for its innovative storytelling, memorable score, and exceptional cast performances. Many have described it as a must-see show for any theater lover.
Get Your Hadestown Tickets
CIBC Theatre History
Originally opened in 1906 as the Majestic Theatre, it was one of the first venues in Chicago designed specifically for vaudeville performances. Over the decades, the theater underwent several transformations:
- 1932: The Majestic Theatre closed during the Great Depression.
- 1945: Reopened as the Shubert Theatre, becoming a premier venue for Broadway tours.
- 2005: Renamed the Bank of America Theatre after extensive renovations.
- 2015: Renamed the CIBC Theatre, reflecting a new partnership.
The CIBC Theatre is now a central part of Chicago’s theatrical legacy, featuring state-of-the-art facilities while preserving its historic charm. This venue is especially significant for Chicago’s theatergoers, as it will soon host the highly anticipated production of Hadestown, an award-winning musical that brings a fresh, captivating take on ancient Greek mythology.
Architectural Highlights
The theater showcases the Beaux-Arts architectural style, characterized by ornate details, elegant staircases, and opulent chandeliers. It has a seating capacity of approximately 1,800, providing an intimate yet grand setting for world-class performances. With the arrival of Hadestown, the space will be transformed into a fitting backdrop for this epic, emotionally charged musical.
Notable Productions
The CIBC Theatre has hosted a variety of iconic productions over the years, including:
- Hamilton
- The Phantom of the Opera
- Les Misérables
- Upcoming: Hadestown (May 6–18, 2025)
By hosting Hadestown, the CIBC Theatre continues its tradition of bringing Broadway’s most celebrated productions to Chicago. This marks an exciting new chapter for both the theater and the city’s cultural scene.
Hadestown Seating Guide at CIBC Theatre
Seating Layout
The CIBC Theatre in Chicago offers a seating capacity of approximately 2,500 across four levels: the Orchestra, Dress Circle, Balcony, and Mezzanine. The stage, prominently located at the front of the Orchestra level, ensures that audiences seated in these central sections enjoy fantastic sightlines, allowing for an immersive experience during Hadestown. Whether you’re up close in the Orchestra Center or enjoying a broader view from the Dress Circle, every seat is designed to offer a unique perspective of this breathtaking show.
The interactive seating chart for Hadestown allows ticket buyers to see the view from each seat and select their desired locations based on price and availability, ensuring the best possible experience for the show.
Best Seats to Enjoy Hadestown
- Orchestra Center (Rows D–M): These seats offer the best views of the stage, providing a close and immersive experience. Perfect for seeing the actors’ every expression and feeling the energy of the performance.
- Dress Circle Front Rows: Ideal for a slightly elevated perspective, these seats balance proximity with a panoramic view of the performance, making them an excellent choice for enjoying the intricate staging of Hadestown.
- Budget-friendly Options: Balcony seats are perfect for those seeking affordability while still enjoying the grandeur of the show. Although farther from the stage, these seats provide a fantastic view of the entire production.
Hadestown Cast Members and Their Roles
The following information is for the 2025 national tour of Hadestown at the CIBC Theatre.
- Jordan Fisher as Orpheus: A passionate and hopeful musician on a quest to bring back his love.
- Maia Reficco as Eurydice: A resilient young woman navigating love and survival.
- Phillip Boykin as Hades: The powerful and intimidating ruler of the underworld.
- Allison Russell as Persephone: The goddess torn between two worlds, bringing warmth to a cold underworld.
- Lillias White as Hermes: The charming and witty narrator guiding the audience through the story.
- Shea Renee, Jessie Shelton, and Brit West as The Fates: A trio of voices representing destiny and fate.
- The Workers Chorus includes Emily Afton, Malcolm Armwood, Timothy H. Lee, Alex Puette, and Grace Yoo.
CIBC Theatre Address
The CIBC Theatre is located at 18 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603, in the heart of Chicago’s Theatre District.
How to Get to CIBC Theatre for Hadestown in Chicago
By Public Transport
To get to the CIBC Theatre in Chicago for the Hadestown performance, take the CTA Red or Blue Line to Monroe Station, which is a short walk to the theater. Alternatively, you can take the Brown, Orange, Pink, or Purple Lines to Adams/Wabash Station, which is also within walking distance. These transit options are ideal for those heading to the theater from various parts of Chicago.
For those traveling by bus, multiple CTA routes stop near the theater, including 20 Madison, 56 Milwaukee, and 151 Sheridan, offering convenient access for those attending Hadestown in Chicago.
Driving Directions
If you’re driving to the CIBC Theatre to see Hadestown, it’s easily accessible from major highways like I-90/94 and Lake Shore Drive. Follow the signs to Monroe Street to enter Chicago’s Theatre District. Be aware that traffic around the theater can be busy, especially on performance nights, so be sure to leave extra time to find parking or navigate through the city.
Parking Options
- Monroe Parking Garage: Located at 17 E Monroe St, this is one of the closest parking garages to the CIBC Theatre, providing convenient parking for those attending Hadestown.
- Additional parking garages and lots are available within walking distance from the CIBC Theatre, making it easy to park and enjoy your night out at Hadestown.
Video Hadestown
FAQ
1. What is Hadestown About?
Hadestown is a modern retelling of the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, set in a world where the boundaries between life and death are blurred. The musical intertwines two mythological stories—one of love, and one of power—set in a hauntingly atmospheric world that blends folk, jazz, and blues music.
2. When will Hadestown be performed at CIBC Theatre?
The show is currently scheduled for multiple dates at the CIBC Theatre in Chicago, with performances happening throughout the season.
3. How long is Hadestown?
Hadestown has a runtime of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one intermission.
4. What are the best seats in CIBC Theatre for Hadestown?
The best seats depend on your preferences. For a full view of the stage and immersive experience, seats in the Orchestra section are ideal. However, if you want to feel closer to the action, seats in the Front Mezzanine are also recommended. Avoid seats that are too far to the sides, as they may limit your view of certain scenes.
5. Are there any age restrictions for attending Hadestown?
Hadestown is recommended for audiences aged 8 and older. Children under 5 are not permitted in the theater.
6. How to get tickets for Hadestown Chicago?
You can purchase tickets for Hadestown by following the links provided in the table above. Simply click on your preferred date and time to secure your seat for this exciting performance.
7. What are the parking options at CIBC Theatre?
There are several parking garages near CIBC Theatre, including the Monroe Parking Garage located at 17 E Monroe St. You can also find additional parking lots within walking distance.
8. How can I get to the CIBC Theatre using public transportation?
The CIBC Theatre is easily accessible by public transport. The closest CTA stations are Monroe Station (Red and Blue Lines) and Adams/Wabash Station (Brown, Purple, Pink, and Orange Lines). Several bus routes, including 20 Madison and 56 Milwaukee, also pass near the theatre.
9. Can I bring food or drinks?
Outside food and drinks are not allowed in CIBC Theatre. However, concessions are available for purchase inside, including snacks and beverages.
10. Is there a dress code for attending musical Hadestown?
While there is no formal dress code, it is recommended to dress comfortably but smartly. Many patrons wear casual or business casual attire.