Orpheus is a simple retelling of the tragic Greek myth that saw Eurydice trapped in the underworld following Orpheus’ quest. A story told countless times warning of love as Orpheus journeys to Hades’ domain to reclaim his love. This version of the story doesn’t shift the setting or recontextualise it in any way, relying on the music to justify this version.
This cast of young performers from Yorkshire CREATE perform the material with professionalism and enthusiasm. They commit to their roles and never disengaged in a scene which is so common in youth productions.
The performer playing Hades gives herself over to the role, characterising it with enough grit and subtle levity to avoid being a stereotype.
The music is a driving force in moving the narrative along. Much of the story is told through the lyrics, meaning, with no mics, words are often lost.
The songs from the Oracle and Cerberus are very fun. The ensemble number as Orpheus and Eurydice leave the underworld is a bold departure to what we’ve heard before. The score does a good job in separating itself from the obvious comparison of Hadestown.
Humorous lines are sometimes lost in the underscore. There are many but a few get laughs a beat too late without the time for it to sit with the audience.
The limited playing space is utilised through boxes being rearranged to create new spaces. The lighting lifts the space creating tension as Orpheus moves further towards Hades’ palace.
The most creative element is the depiction of Cerberus, the three-headed dog who guards the gates of the underworld. Its brought to life with a simple home-made puppet and three performers all clearly enjoying this part of the show most of all. The audience definitely engaged most with this scene.
Expanded material would allow the earliest moments to develop as there is little interaction between Orpheus and Eurydice. Exposition heavy dialogue tells us of their love and Orpheus’ musical prowess before we see it.
The power that music holds is a key theme of the production. It could develop by having the full production numbers relate to it. Having these young people perform with such a clear passion for musical theatre only cements the theme further.
Where to Watch Orpheus
Orpheus: A New Musical is running at 12.05 from 10-15 August at theSpace @ Symposium Hall with tickets available here.
Find Brig’s other coverage of this year’s Edinburgh Fringe here.
Featured Image Credit: Edinburgh Fringe/ Yorkshire CREATE