Hermes in Epic Vs. Hadestown: Dissecting Two Iconic Musical Portrayals
By Maya Lin-Takahashi
Q1: Who plays Hermes in EPIC: The Musical?
Jorge Rivera-Herrans, the creator and primary composer of EPIC: The Musical, voices and sings the role of Hermes on the official studio concept recordings, most prominently in The Circe Saga track "Wouldn't You Like."
Q2: How does the role of Hermes in Hadestown differ from EPIC?
In Hadestown, Hermes is the show's master of ceremonies, an omniscient, older narrator who guides both Orpheus and the audience through a tragic folk-jazz parable. In EPIC, Hermes is an active participant in Homer’s story, appearing as a playful, hyperactive trickster god who provides Odysseus with the magical moly herb to defeat the enchantress Circe.
Q3: What musical genres define Hermes in each production?
Hermes in EPIC is defined by high-tempo synthpop, orchestral percussion, and dynamic electronic arrangements influenced by anime scores and video-game soundtracks. Hermes in Hadestown is anchored in acoustic New Orleans jazz, blues, and traditional American roots music.
Q4: Is EPIC: The Musical currently a staged Broadway production?
As of 2026, EPIC: The Musical exists primarily as a series of commercially successful digital concept musical albums, accompanied by widespread internet animatics, social media releases, and specialized concert presentations, though discussions regarding physical theatrical adaptations continue.
Maya is a hardware enthusiast who tests and reviews smart home devices, smartphones, wearables, and audio gear. She focuses on practical consumer value and build quality.
