Colwood students to bring Greek myth-inspired musical to the main stage
Published 5:45 am Tuesday, April 14, 2026
A Colwood high school is set to bring a Tony Award-winning musical to the stage next month.
Royal Bay Secondary students. from Grades 9 to 12. will present Hadestown, a production that weaves together the Greek myths of Orpheus and Eurydice and Hades and Persephone.
The story follows Orpheus as he journeys to the underworld to rescue Eurydice, confronting Hades and a system built on relentless labour along the way. The musical explores themes of love, sacrifice and the power of collective action, highlighting how one voice can inspire change.
Theatre director Melissa Young explained that the play, which debuted on Broadway in 2019, offers a unique opportunity, as a teen version of the musical was recently released.
“It’s pretty cool because we’re doing a show that is still on Broadway, which is not normal,” she said. “Last year, I jumped on the opportunity to be one of the first schools to produce the show.”
Having directed more than 20 productions during her time at Royal Bay, Young said the musical holds a special place in her heart.
“The music is absolutely beautiful, and the story is epic,” she said. “It’s based on Greek myths, but the way it’s told, how the music is used, and the issues that are discussed… it has been an absolute joy to work on.”
Taking seven months to put together with the efforts of more than 70 students, both on stage and behind the scenes, Young said the show ultimately belongs to them.
“The students will be running the show themselves,” she said. “I’ll be there, but they’ll be calling the shots, running the lights and managing quick changes. It will be their show.”
With strong ticket demand, Young is encouraging those interested to book early.
“It is an epic show, and it’s incredibly challenging,” she said. “I’m really proud of how far the students have come and how excited people are to come and see the show. I would really encourage people to get their tickets sooner rather than later.”
Performances will take place at the Teechamitsa Theatre at Royal Bay Secondary (3500 Ryder Hesjedal Way) from May 6 to 9. Evening shows are scheduled for 7 p.m. from Wednesday to Friday, with a 2 p.m. performance on Saturday.
Tickets are $18 for adults, $15 for seniors and $10 for students, and are available online at ticketowl.io/blackwingtheatre.
