The show that just beat Hamilton at the box office was built by giving away control

The record-breaking box office success of the filmed Broadway musical "Hadestown" defies conventional wisdom in the entertainment industry. Unlike previous high-profile releases like Elton John's "Tammy Faye" and the Avett Brothers' "Swept Away," which closed within weeks of their opening, "Hadestown" has thrived, drawing audiences from all corners of the globe.

The story of "Hadestown" begins in Barre, Vermont, where singer and songwriter Anaïs Mitchell first performed the musical in 2006 at the Old Labor Hall. Initially financed by a small state arts grant and performed by friends from Vermont bands, Mitchell played the lead role of Eurydice herself. After the album's release in 2010, the musical evolved into an off-Broadway production in 2016, followed by performances in Edmonton and London's National Theatre, culminating in its Broadway debut in 2019.

Along the way, Mitchell adopted a unique approach by gradually delegating creative control to more experienced professionals, including director Rachel Chavkin, orchestrator Michael Chorney, and producer Mara Isaacs. This strategy allowed her to maintain a stable and adaptable organization, rather than relying on a single founder's vision.

The Hadestown film, shot in London with several original Broadway principals, opened in July 2025, taking in $10.2 million on its opening weekend, surpassing the record previously held by "Hamilton." This success is attributed to Mitchell's ability to adapt and build a robust, adaptable structure for her work, underpinned by patience and a willingness to relinquish control over time.

Founders who prioritize rapid launch over long-term adaptability often fail to create enduring revenue streams, as evidenced by the short-lived runs of "Tammy Faye" and "Swept Away." In contrast, Mitchell's approach has positioned "Hadestown" for sustained success, potentially setting a new standard for how creative ventures can thrive in the highly competitive entertainment industry.