HADESTOWN Returns to Des Moines: Press Highlights

The wait is almost over—Hadestown returns to Des Moines on Friday, and the buzz has been nothing short of electric. This Tony Award-winning Broadway phenomenon returns to the Civic Center on April 11, and local media has been lighting up with praise, insight, and behind-the-scenes stories that capture why this mythic musical is once again striking a chord with Iowa audiences.

A Star’s Journey to the Stage
As Axios Des Moines reports, Hadestown marks Namisa Mdlalose Bizana’s first performance in Iowa—and her journey to the Civic Center stage is anything but ordinary. Growing up in South Africa with limited access to extracurriculars, she pursued theater with determination, eventually earning her degree in theatre-making. Her path led her from historical interpreter at the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum to landing the role of Persephone in Hadestown.

Read the full Axios article here:
Axios: Hadestown Opening in Des Moines

Behind the Scenes with the Cast and Crew
Iowa native and production stage manager Molly Goodwin gave multiple outlets a behind-the-scenes look at what makes Hadestown such a technically impressive production. From managing the flow of scenery to syncing complex cues, Goodwin offers insight into the meticulous work behind the curtain.

Listen – The Culture Buzz with John Busbee
Read – Iowa Public Radio
Read – DSM Magazine
Read - Cityview

Representation Onstage: One Actor’s Mission
Nickolaus Colón, who plays Hades, spoke with Hola Iowa about his powerful experience performing in a show that reflects both current events and deep personal identity. Colón, who is Puerto Rican, said he rarely saw fellow Latino performers growing up in regional theater, and hopes Hadestown will inspire young Latinx audiences to pursue the arts.

Read the full article:
Hola America News: Star of Hadestown Hopes More Latinos Find Confidence Through the Arts

The Persephone Behind the Curtain
We Are Iowa and Hello Iowa also featured Namisa Mdlalose Bizana, highlighting the depth and emotional resonance she brings to the role of Persephone. In a candid interview, she reflected on the character’s resilience and complexity, and what it means to bring such a powerful role to new audiences.

Watch the clips:
We Are Iowa – Hadestown at the Civic Center
Watch – Hello Iowa (WHO13)

Meet the Messenger: Jaylon C. Crump on Playing Hermes
KCCI sat down with Jaylon C. Crump, who brings warmth, wit, and rhythm to the role of Hermes. In his interview, Crump discussed the significance of being the show’s narrator, the emotional pulse of Hadestown, and how the storytelling speaks to both ancient mythology and modern truths. 

Watch the full interview – KCCI

Don't Miss Out
Hadestown runs through April 13 at the Des Moines Civic Center. Tickets are still available, but they’re going fast. Don't wait!

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