Opera soprano Danielle De Niese has taken on the role of Persephone in the acclaimed musical Hadestown, a contemporary retelling of the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. The production, written and composed by Anaïs Mitchell, is currently staged at the Lyric Theatre. De Niese, an Australian-American artist with over two decades of experience on the global opera scene, resides at the Glyndebourne estate in Sussex, where she lives with her husband, Gus Christie, and their two children.
Known primarily for her operatic roles, De Niese expressed enthusiasm for her involvement in musical theatre, citing a lifelong appreciation for both art forms. She highlighted how her experience in opera and musicals complements one another, allowing her to bring a unique perspective to her performances. De Niese praised the creative environment of Hadestown’s production team, describing it as supportive of individuality and personal expression within the framework of the characters.
Regarding the appeal of Hadestown, De Niese noted that Mitchell’s work remains faithful to the original Greek mythology while presenting it through a modern lens. The themes of the musical, particularly Orpheus’s yearning to understand the world and his place within it, resonate deeply with audiences. De Niese also pointed out Mitchell’s foresight in addressing social issues such as borders and freedom years before these topics gained prominence in contemporary political discourse.
The soprano commented on the ongoing discussions surrounding artificial intelligence and its potential impact on the arts. She emphasized that the irreplaceable nature of live performance lies in its human emotional and physical presence, which technology cannot replicate. De Niese expressed hope that the arts would continue to inspire and provide opportunities for young people to engage creatively without fear.
When asked about personal preferences, De Niese mentioned enjoying cocktails such as Negronis and White Russians but acknowledged a busy schedule limits her downtime. She recounted a humorous discovery of a bottled gin gifted to her at the Olivier Awards, which she later learned was produced by actor Brad Pitt.
In reflecting on Hadestown’s broader message of restoring balance, De Niese spoke about the current social and political polarization worldwide. She advocated for kindness, education, and attentive listening as means to bridge divisions. The artist sees art and music as vital sources of hope and community, particularly in times of crisis.
Hadestown continues its run at the Lyric Theatre, inviting audiences to experience this blend of myth, music, and contemporary relevance.