West Cook News

Under the direction of Michelle Bayer, Oak Park and River Forest High School’s fall musical, Hadestown Teen Edition, will be performed in the Little Theater. The production features 37 songs and required an early start to rehearsals.

“This show is nonstop music, with 37 songs woven throughout,” Bayer said. “We knew we had to start early.” Auditions began at the beginning of the school year with 85 students competing for 23 roles. Cast members have attended daily rehearsals since October.

Hadestown Teen Edition adapts Greek mythology and New Orleans jazz to tell the story of Orpheus and Eurydice. The theater has been set up as a jazz club, including live pre-show music. Bayer commented on the musicians: “These musicians are phenomenal. Some of them even recruited the rest of the pit band themselves. They’re not just talented, they’re deeply committed to the artform.”

Bayer also spoke about how students connect with the material: “It’s a sad story, but it’s one they connect to deeply. They’re reflecting on community, sacrifice, and love, and bringing that depth to every scene.”

The choreography includes modern dance elements by Connor Cornelius along with staging by Bayer. Set and lighting design is led by Kyle Hurt with technical director Chris Scholtens and student builders. Senior Ethan Cooper serves as student technical director and lead carpenter. Bayer noted his contribution: “His dedication is incredible. It’s students like him who make this program what it is.”

Bayer described the inclusivity of the program: “Even if a student isn’t cast on stage, we find them a role backstage, in costuming, or working with props. All are welcome in our spaces.”

Performances are scheduled for November 14, 15, 21, and 22 at 7 p.m., each night seating up to 350 people in the Little Theater. According to Bayer: “We expect to sell out. People in the community know how special this program is.” Tickets are available online.

Oak Park and River Forest High School serves grades nine through twelve in Oak Park and Cook County https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/. In the 2019-2020 school year there were 3,393 enrolled students https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/, with grade ten having the highest percentage at 26.2 percent https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/. The student body was made up of approximately 56.9 percent white students, 18.2 percent black students, 12.6 percent Hispanic students, and 3.8 percent Asian students during that period https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/.