Does "Hercules" go the distance ?

So, I really loved the 1997 Disney film as a child, ergo I had high hopes. 

In order for adaptation to work on stage it had to undergo a few cosmetic procedures of course, some of those really went quite close to the bone though.

This version obviously had a bigger focus on themes that would resonate with a 2025 audience, which can be commendable in general, but feels like pandering when it is done to check certain boxes. The changes to make Meg an “independent woman who doesn’t need a man” lacked nuance, the new focus on motherhood (birth or adoptive) was an enriching addition, but here too it seemed set up without proper payoff. Chekhov’s gun still lies unfired on stage when the final number “A Star is Born” ends with a huge confetti explosion.

What holds this production together, is the thespian prowess of Hades - played by LEGEND Stephen Carlile (pictured above), and whom I had the chance to meet at stagedoor - as well as the powerhouses found in the 5 muses, played by Candace Furbert (Thalia), Sharlene Hector (Clio), Brianna Ogunbawo (Melpomene), Malinda Parris (Calliope), and Robyn Rose-Li (Terpsichore), with Kamilla Fernandes as Standby Muse. Also a HUGE DELIGHT at stagedoor. They truly were my favourite part of the show. The ensemble also has to be highlighted here because the work they achieve in those two hours is nothing short of Olympian (sorry not sorry).

The story would have benefited from some tightening of loose ends/strings here and there wink wink, which didn’t happen during the production's first stretch in Hamburg, and is a real shame. It’s not only story-wise that things need polishing but especially the added songs (especially Hercules’) do not evoke the same vibrancy that the core material did, and are not very memorable.

The show stands out with its staging choices, props and the use of screens to enhance the landscape (and it is really fun!), which really tugs at the nostalgia of those who recognize landscapes, taken it seems, strictly from the movie.

All in all, I think this is a great show to introduce people to musical theater because it has enough pizzazz and humour to lure people into the theater, and is a great time for families and occasional theater-goers! Who knows maybe there will be some further changes made in the next production, the movie is so well loved it definitely deserves it! It's also a shame because I believe we see a diversity in cast and ensemble like this quite seldom these days (despite everything!).

I'll end this with two other of the heavenly muses I got to meet. You're welcome.