The one and only Stephanie Mills is back on Broadway! Mills is appearing as Hermes in “Hadestown,” playing at the Walter Kerr Theatre (W. 48th Street). The eight-time Tony Award-winning musical with music, lyrics ,and book by Anaise Mitchell, developed with and directed by Rachel Chavkin, is still going strong.
“She walks in beauty and grace like the night” are the words that came to my mind as Mills slowly moved across the stage, audience cheering. This is a lady with a very recognizable and lovely voice, and thanks be that she is back doing what she does best: singing and acting with a bit of dancing as well. Mills has — always has had — IT! She sings with a spirit and energy that inspires.
As Hermes, Mills interacts with the cast like a loving, gentle, wise mother. She definitely has a motherly connection and takes on the role of a caring guide for Orpheus, the lead character, treating him with tenderness and compassion. She sounded amazing as she led the cast in the “Road to Hell.” Mills has an energy that is contagious.
Watching her onstage is heartwarming and inspiring. At the performance I attended, Chibueze Ihuoma played Orpheus, a role normally played by Jordan Fisher (who I have definitely enjoyed in the role). Ihuoma has a magnificent voice and delivered a stellar performance as Orpheus, displaying an innocence and wonder that befit his character.
The character of Persephone is now played by multiple Grammy-nominated singer Yola, who definitely brings the joy, the spirit, and the energy. Her voice is stupendous, and she clearly has so much fun with the role. There is definitely a wonderful chemistry that she shares with Hades, played by the phenomenal Phillip Boykin.
This man has a voice that makes you melt and the smooth dance moves that make you smile. Yola and Boykin are absolutely adorable together and you can feel the passion they share on that stage, especially when they renew their characters’ love. Mills is also joined on stage by Maia Reficco, who plays Eurydice and shines in the role.
I have often listened to Mills on YouTube singing “Home” from “The Wiz,” and now she’s back and she’s brilliant in the role of Hermes. She will only be there for a limited time, so make plans to go and see Mills in her new Broadway role after 40 years away from the Great White Way.
For more info and tickets, visit www.hadestown.com.