A Night in the Underworld: Hosting Your Own Hadestown-Themed Event

Attention, gods, mortals, and everyone in between! Broadway Utica is bringing Hadestown to The Stanley next Tuesday and Wednesday, and if you’re as obsessed with this Tony-winning musical as we are, why not keep the party going with a Hadestown-themed event? Whether you’re throwing a pre-show bash, a watch party, or just want to set the mood for a night of myth and music, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to transform your space into your very own underworld speakeasy. Let’s dive in!

Dress the Part: From Jazz Club Chic to Mythological Majesty

First things first—costumes! Hadestown blends the glitz of a jazz club with the grit of an industrial underworld, so the options are endless. Want to channel Persephone’s free-spirited vibe? Go for vintage glam: flowy dresses, bold accessories, and a glass of wine in hand at all times (we’ll get to that soon). Feeling a little more Hades? Dark, tailored suits or sleek black outfits will make you look like you’re ready to run the underworld—just make sure you don’t look too intimidating, we don’t need anyone ruling over the party.

And if Orpheus and Eurydice are more your style, go for a simple, bohemian look. Think linen shirts, suspenders, and flower crowns—whether you’re the hopeful romantic or the world-weary wanderer. Extra points if you carry a guitar (even if it’s just for show).

Speakeasy Vibes: DIY Décor for the Underworld

To truly set the mood, transform your space into the underground world of Hadestown. Start by dimming the lights and adding warm, low lighting—think string lights, vintage lamps, or even candles if you want to get really moody. For an industrial touch, use exposed brick walls or pipe décor, and mix in some dark, lush greenery to give the space an earthy, underground feel.

Create an entrance that feels like guests are descending into the underworld (but, you know, in a fun way). Use black curtains, drape fabrics, or even some fake vines to give it that “just beyond the mortal world” vibe. And for a little extra drama, hang a sign that reads “Welcome to Hadestown—Leave Your Hope at the Door.” (Kidding! Mostly.)

Persephone’s Signature Drink: Wine with a Twist

You can’t have a Hadestown party without paying tribute to the queen of the underworld herself, Persephone. And what’s Persephone’s drink of choice? Wine, of course! But let’s add a twist to make it more Hadestown-inspired.

For a signature drink, try a pomegranate sangria. It’s bold, it’s rich, and it’s got that mythical vibe that will have everyone feeling like they’re on a summer trip to the underworld. You can mix red wine with pomegranate juice, add slices of orange, apple, and some fresh pomegranate seeds. Toss in a cinnamon stick for a little extra kick, and there you go—Persephone’s official cocktail.

Not a fan of wine? No problem! How about a “Hades Old Fashioned”? Strong, dark, and just a little bitter—much like the man himself. Think whiskey, a splash of orange bitters, and a cherry on top for a drink that packs a punch.

The Soundtrack to Your Underworld

No party is complete without music, and with Hadestown, you’ve got a killer playlist built right into the show. Create a mix that includes the Hadestown cast album (obviously), but also add in some New Orleans-inspired jazz to keep the energy up. You can throw in some moody folk tunes to honor Orpheus’ singer-songwriter heart, and maybe even a little blues for Hades’ darker side.

For a fun twist, mix in modern artists like Hozier, Florence + The Machine, and Lana Del Rey—singers who capture that dark, romantic, mythological energy. Soon enough, you’ll have everyone feeling like they’re lost in the music, just like the characters themselves.

Food Fit for the Gods (and Mortals)

Let’s not forget about the food. Keep things simple but atmospheric—hearty, rustic dishes that feel like they could be served in a back-alley speakeasy or a mythological feast. Think breads, cheeses, olives, and grapes to start. For the main course, go for something like lamb skewers, roasted vegetables, or even a charcuterie board with a variety of meats and spreads.

For dessert? You can’t go wrong with something pomegranate-based (keeping that Persephone theme going), or a decadent dark chocolate cake to satisfy your inner Hades.

Final Touch: The Underworld Photo Booth

Last but not least—make sure to set up a little photo booth so your guests can capture their night in the underworld! Create a backdrop using those dim lights and vines we talked about earlier, and add some fun props—think flower crowns, fake guitars, and a few devilish accessories for those who want to get into the Hades spirit.

And don’t forget to encourage everyone to strike their best “tragic love story” pose. After all, it wouldn’t be a Hadestown event without a little drama.

With your space transformed, your guests decked out, and a signature drink in hand, you’ll be ready to throw a Hadestown night worthy of Persephone and Hades themselves. So, whether you’re headed to The Stanley to see the show in person or just want to celebrate the story from home, this party guide will make sure your night in the underworld is unforgettable.

Just remeber—keep your wits about you and whatever you do, don’t look back.

HADESTOWN, October 8-9 at The Stanley Theatre

For Tickets Click Here

or Call The Stanley Theatre at 315-724-4000 or directly at The Stanley’s Box Office