Entertainment

Hadestown Ruled the Broadway in 2019

Published

4 years ago

January 5, 2020

Hadestown is the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, told in this day and age. It dominated the Broadway 8 times a week. There is a reason why it became so loved and watched by the audience. Anaïs Mitchell, the composer of this production has taken her tale of Hadestown — an idea that came to her from DIY upstart to concept album to full-fledged theatrical production. It stands out because of its contemporary touch, and it deals with problems which are relatable to the audience.

The production deals with present-day concerns like anti-immigration rhetoric and the #MeToo movement with songs like “Why We Build the Wall” and “Hey, Little Songbird.” There are also themes of wealth disparity and climate change in the Broadway production. Mitchell mentioned that all these occurrences were not deliberate. And one of the interesting facts is that the show evolved over the part 13 years, and it is what it is through the growth.

The great thing about Hadestown is how it inculcated the music into itself. Mitchell mentioned how at the earlier stage of production there were times that the show had gaps in the between. After each scene the production felt haphazard and was all over the place. But with relevant songs, now it feels like there is a linear progress.

Unlike other directors, Mitchell works on guitar when she feels inspired, rather than working on piano. Her music is mostly influenced by folk songs and traditional music, particularly from the British Isles. That’s why her music has a folksy feel even when it is based on an ancient myth.

She talks about Orpheus and how he is a character that is parallel to today’s youth. He starts up by striving for a world he believes could exist. But by the end of the journey he has lost his innocence. And he is saved when he realizes everyone has the same journey. That’s why audience love the show, and that is why Hadestown tickets become sold so easily, because they feel connected to the character somehow.

Entertainment

“The Firing Squad”: I Cried Buckets of Tears

Published

19 hours ago

April 25, 2024

Jonathan Grilli

Sitting in the dimly lit theater, I had no idea what to expect as the opening credits of “The Firing Squad” began to roll. Little did I know that I was about to embark on an emotional journey that would leave me reaching for tissues and struggling to catch my breath.

The film follows the true story of three Christians facing execution by firing squad in a third world country. Directed by Timothy A. Chey, it features a stellar cast including James Barrington, Kevin Sorbo, and Cuba Gooding Jr. Each actor brings their character to life with such authenticity and depth that it’s impossible not to be fully immersed in their struggles and triumphs.

As the plot unfolded, I found myself drawn into a world of despair and desperation, but also one of unwavering faith and hope. The characters’ journey from darkness to light, from despair to redemption, resonated with me on a deeply personal level. I couldn’t help but be moved by their courage and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.

But it was the performances that truly stole the show. James Barrington’s portrayal of the protagonist’s internal turmoil was nothing short of mesmerizing, while Kevin Sorbo and Cuba Gooding Jr. delivered powerhouse performances that left me in awe.

And then there was the message of the film—that no matter how bleak the circumstances may seem, there is always hope. That even in our darkest moments, faith has the power to transform lives and bring about redemption. It was a message that hit me like a ton of bricks, leaving me with tears streaming down my face and a renewed sense of purpose.

As the credits rolled and the lights came up, I found myself struggling to put into words the impact that “The Firing Squad” had on me. All I could manage was, “I cried buckets of tears.” And I wasn’t alone. As I looked around the theater, I saw others wiping their eyes and exchanging emotional glances.

In the end, “The Firing Squad” wasn’t just a movie—it was an experience. An experience that left me feeling inspired, uplifted, and profoundly grateful for the power of cinema to touch the soul. And for that, I will be forever grateful.

The movie is set to premiere in the theatres worldwide on August 2, 2024. And this is definitely a must watch movie, reminding people of the strength of faith.