Finally saw this last night with my daughter. I'm normally a TDF guy, but I sprang for full price tickets when the buzz started and that option disappeared. Best decision, as the show was a thrilling night of theater and my seat price already rose $100 after my purchase. I am not a skilled reviewer like most on this board, but wanted to contribute with my random thoughts.
I was hooked from the moment Andre glided across the stage and began the story and introductions. Among the male performers, his performance for me was the most memorable.
Amber Grey - WOW! she is Persephone. I can not recall any female supporting performance as amazing as this. I had a huge smile on my face any time she was on stage. She literally embodies the character with her acting, singing and dancing. It almost felt like she was a lead.
The lighting and scenic design was so immersive I truly was transported to somewhere else. I normally don't notice those elements, but they added so much to the overall experience they were hard to ignore. The two songs at the end of Act 1 Wait for Me and Build the Wall were truly magical for me and will be at the top of the list of best moments in my theater memories.
I found the length and pacing perfect and was never bored. I thought Act 1 flew by.
The score was breathtaking and poignant. The band, especially the trombone player, were all top notch and added to the overall atmosphere of the show. I hate unexpected tears, but the Orpheus song to Hades literally crawled inside my head and heart. I am also team Carney, but my daughter who does not stalk the board like I do did comment that his performance felt "out of place and kinda bland" and questioned if it was a directing choice. While she liked the score she was not as overwhelmed as I was.
This show will stick with me and is easily in the Top 5 shows of my theater experiences.
With all that said, my daughter and I had an interesting discussion comparing Hadestown to Tootsie which we also enjoyed. We agreed apples to oranges and it should be interesting to see how Best Musical pans out.