The Resurgence of Mythology in Contemporary Musical Theatre

In recent years, the West End stage has witnessed a remarkable resurgence of ancient mythology in contemporary musical theatre, with productions such as Disney's "Hercules," Anaïs Mitchell's "Hadestown," and "The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical" capturing the imaginations of audiences. This trend reflects not only a nostalgic appreciation for classical narratives but also a modern reinterpretation that resonates with contemporary themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of love.

Historically, ancient Greek dramas have laid the foundation for theatrical storytelling, intertwining music, dance, and narrative in ways that have evolved yet remained fundamentally impactful. According to Cedric Neal, who portrays Hermes in "Hadestown," the transition of Greek theatre to the musical format is a natural progression. "Greek theatre has influenced every facet of our lives, from athletics to religion," states Neal. "What better than for it to be translated to the stage with music, choreography, and dance?"

"Hadestown," which intertwines the tales of Persephone, Hades, and Orpheus and Eurydice, demonstrates this blend of ancient storytelling with modern musicality. The show utilizes gospel, jazz, folk, bluegrass, and soul to convey its narrative, effectively reaching audiences on emotional and intellectual levels. Neal emphasizes the importance of music in storytelling, remarking, "Music is the purest form of telling a story, as it touches heart and soul."

Similarly, "The Lightning Thief," based on Rick Riordan's bestselling book series, tackles themes of adolescence and identity through the lens of Greek mythology. Director Lizzi Gee believes that modern adaptations of ancient myths allow for deeper connections with contemporary audiences, particularly youth who may feel marginalized. "Teenagers who are maybe struggling with isolation or thinking about who they are and feeling different from other people are so grateful for something they can connect with and connect to," she explains, highlighting the importance of relatable characters and narratives in fostering a sense of belonging.

Disney's "Hercules," which opens at Theatre Royal Drury Lane, continues this trend by adapting the 1997 animated film into a live musical. The co-writers of the book, Robert Horn and Kwame Kwei-Armah, aim to maintain the essence of the original story while making it relevant to modern audiences. Kwei-Armah points to the central themes of self-discovery and acceptance, emphasizing, "It is a coming-of-age story, for me, but also a story about understanding where you fit in the world and what your strength is."

The enduring appeal of these mythic tales lies in their ability to reflect universal human experiences. Kwei-Armah notes, "Myths offer eternally relevant stories, their underlying meanings delivered in metaphorical form. We love a metaphor, and there’s nothing better than a singing metaphor."

As these productions resonate with diverse audiences, they also prompt a reconsideration of the roles of myth and storytelling in contemporary society. The narratives of gods and heroes serve as conduits for exploring modern existential questions, ultimately bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and contemporary challenges.

The implications of this trend extend beyond entertainment; they invite audiences to engage with their own identities and cultural heritages. As the lines between ancient myth and modern musical blur, the future of theatre may continue to evolve in ways that honor the past while innovating for the future. With productions like "Hercules," "Hadestown," and "The Lightning Thief" paving the way, it is clear that the gods of mythology are not only alive but thriving in the realm of musical theatre, encouraging audiences to reflect on their journeys and the universality of their stories.