Let’s face it—Homer’s The Odyssey has been around forever, but how often do you hear someone excitedly talking about it? Enter Epic: The Musical, Jorge Rivera-Herrans’ innovative and heartfelt take on the ancient tale. It’s a musical that doesn’t just rehash the story of Odysseus—it transforms it into something vibrant, relatable, and downright unforgettable.
Rivera-Herrans has built something that’s equal parts homage and reinvention. Epic: The Musical sticks to the bones of The Odyssey; Odysseus is still the hero trying to find his way home after the Trojan War, battling monsters, gods, and his doubts along the way. But, what makes this version different is how deeply it dives into the characters’ emotions and personal struggles. It’s less about the literal journey and more about what it means to fight for love, identity, and home.
One of the musical’s standout features is how it uses musical motifs to define each character. Odysseus’s songs carry a mix of bravery and hesitation—he’s the fearless hero we expect, but there’s also this undercurrent of vulnerability that makes him feel so human. It isn’t just about his reputation as a legend; it’s about the pressure to live up to the expectations of everyone waiting for him back in Ithaca.
And, then there’s Penelope, the rock holding Ithaca together while Odysseus is off fighting gods and cyclopes. She’s not just “the wife waiting at home”—she’s a fully realized character with her emotional journey. Her motif is softer, almost melancholic, but it’s filled with the kind of strength that doesn’t need to be loud to be heard.
Even the gods have their unique sound. Athena’s music is regal and wise, like a guiding hand in the chaos. Poseidon? His theme is pure chaos—wild, stormy, and filled with anger. These motifs aren’t just clever—they make every character feel distinct and unforgettable, bringing new layers to a story you might think you already know.
The songs themselves are a blend of raw emotion and clever storytelling. Rivera-Herrans has a way with lyrics that make ancient themes feel like they could’ve been written yesterday. That’s what makes Epic work so well—it’s not just a retelling of Greek mythology; it’s a story about being human.
Another thing worth noting? The way Epic gives depth to its side characters. Telemachus, Odysseus’s son, gets a real arc here. He’s not just the kid waiting for his dad to come home; he’s figuring out who he is in a world where he barely remembers his father. His growth parallels Odysseus’s journey, making their eventual reunion all the more powerful.
But, let’s talk about how Epic came to life. Rivera-Herrans didn’t start on Broadway (surprisingly) —he started on TikTok. By releasing snippets of songs and behind-the-scenes content, he built a fanbase from the ground up. That kind of grassroots excitement is rare in musical theater, and it’s a testament to how deeply this story resonates with people.
Of course, none of this would work without the music itself. The songs are just as dynamic as the story, switching seamlessly between big, ensemble numbers and intimate, character-driven moments. Rivera-Herrans doesn’t just recreate The Odyssey; he gives it a heartbeat.
What’s even more impressive is how Epic manages to balance its respect for the source material with a fresh, modern edge. It doesn’t feel stuffy or overly academic: it feels alive. It’s a musical that makes you think about ancient Greece and your own life in the same breath.
In the end, Epic: The Musical isn’t just a retelling of an old story. It’s a reminder of why these stories stick around in the first place. They’re about humanity—our fears, our dreams, and the connections that make it all worthwhile. Rivera-Herrans has created something that’s not just entertaining but meaningful, and that’s what makes Epic a must-listen (and hopefully, one day, a must-see).
If you haven’t heard it yet, do yourself a favor and dive in (get in the water reference). Whether you’re a mythology buff or just someone who loves a good story, Epic has something for you. And honestly? It’s a masterpiece in the making. That’s it for me but look out for the reviews on all of the sagas for these musicals in the future!
