By Adsen Tarr
Hadestown and Gypsy Hit Local Stages for a Special Double Feature of a Weekend
Looking to fill your weekend with some musical fun? Look no further than these two powerhouse shows — Hadestown and Gypsy blessing our stages! In Champaign-Urbana we are so lucky to have such an extensive theater scene, so much so that sometimes you’ve got to make it a double feature. Whether you’re interested in delving into a tragic greek love story, or the world of vaudeville and showbiz, there is certainly something for you this weekend.
Champaign Park District’s Hadestown (Youth Edition): Young Voices, Ancient Myths, Entertainment for All Ages
Plan Your Visit
Location: The Virginia Theatre
Showtimes: July 18-19 at 7 p.m.; July 19 at 1 p.m.
Tickets: Purchase here
Age Recommendations: Appropriate for all ages; note that young kids could get confused so it might be best to give them some knowledge of the story beforehand or leave them at home this time. It also has a run time of over two hours, something to keep in mind for those that are antsy.
The Story
Hadestown is a beautiful retelling of the story of Orpheus and Eurydice set to a stunning jazz score. It includes themes of love, fate and sacrifice with a haunting beauty that follows the young actors throughout the show. It’s incredibly poetic and thought-provoking so whether you’re a fan of jazz, mythology or just someone who enjoys watching teens shine, this production is for you.
Show Highlights
- An incredibly strong ensemble of young actors
It was lovely to see all the young actors so excited to be onstage! Just from watching the show it is clear to see they work very well together to put on such a wonderful show. Aside from the wonderfully talented leads, the ensemble really holds the story together with their lively dance numbers like “Livin It Up On Top” and beautiful vocal moments such as “Wait For Me Reprise.” It is truly a fantastic ensemble and certainly worth a trip to The Virginia Theatre.
- The use of set and lighting is nothing short of transformative
The set, made by David Fazio and Steve Troyer, transports the audience to a smoky jazz club with hints of the underworld. The set covers the whole stage, with a large bridge from wing to wing and a spot for the band to play onstage, also in costume — adding to the audience’s experience. This, combined with the fantastic lighting design by Avery Adomaitis, creates an unforgettable atmosphere that immerses views into the mythical world.
- The music!
What makes this show absolutely incredible is the score. The combination of many styles includes folk, blues and jazz, and the band pulls this off impressively. And the young actors hold their own with this music as well. So many talented kids to mention but some standouts include Eurydice, played by Makynna Rice, who belts out her songs beautifully; Hermes, played by Mary Ella Blakeman, whose storytelling throughout the show is unmatched; and Annie singing the role of Persephone is absolutely angelic.
Champaign Urbana Drama Makers’ Gypsy: Let Them Entertain You
Plan Your Visit
Location: Harold and Jean Miner Theatre at Parkland College
Showtimes: July 18-19 at 7 p.m. and July 20 at 2 p.m.
Tickets: Purchase here
Age Recommendations: PG-13, best for families with older kids. While the show does feature some young actors, there are multiple references to burlesque and stripping, particularly in the second act. This show may be best for kids ages 12+.
The Story
Gypsy is the definition of Broadway and Vaudeville — dazzling, dramatic and heartfelt. It follows stage mom Momma Rose and her two daughters, June and Louise, from when they are young to adulthood. It’s all about family dynamics and their journey in show business.
Show Highlights
- Outstanding performances
The most obvious highlight of all is the fabulous cast. Jacki Lowenstein is an incredible Mamma Rose, nailing her overbearing mother/manager character. Kimmy Schofield’s Louise is the perfect complement to this with her sweet and honest portrayal. In addition to the fabulous leads, there are also many smaller parts that really shine such as Ameriah Lockett as Tessie Tura with a powerhouse voice and hilarious line delivery; she steals the show!
- Supporting a budding director
The director of this show, Jordan Rinkenberger, is a senior in high school but already making moves in the C-U theater scene. He is a young entrepreneur with a bright future and is a very talented director. Gypsy is a wonderful representation of the incredible things Jordan does, and there is no way you’d be able to guess that this was directed by a high school student!
- The fun!
Seeing Gypsy this weekend is a good way to relax into your weekend with some good old fashioned Broadway fun. From the dancing cow, to the flashy dance numbers, Gypsy is the essence of classic Broadway that will make you laugh, cry and everything in between. Don’t miss this wonderful show!