Review: Spring Awakening

Spring Awakening is a rock musical adaptation of the controversial 1891 German play of the same title by Frank Wedekind. It features music by Duncan Sheik and a book and lyrics by Steven Sater. Set in late-nineteenth century Germany, it concerns teenagers who are discovering the inner and outer tumult of sexuality. The original play was banned in Germany, for about a century, due to its portrayal of masturbation, abortion, homosexuality, rape, bondage, child abuse and suicide. In the musical, alternative rock is employed as part of the folk-infused rock score.

This show, brought to this years fringe by One Academy Productions, has sparks flying everywhere with every piece of energy from the cast giving performances as though their lifes depended on it.

As I was propelled back to my innocence and exploration of sexual tension in my teenage years the performances, as a whole, were committed and focused bringing depth and intelligence to the plot.

Carly Holt (Wendla) sings with precision and beauty throughout, almost as thought she was born to play the part. Stephen Arden (Melchoir) fills the stage with teenage angst and passion taking the audience with him on his journey. From the moment the first ensemble number was in full swing Kristopher Bosch (Hanshen) and Andrew Thomas (Ernst) had captured me with their devoted character choices and class characterisations. They approach each other delicately enthralling the audience.
Direction and Choreography (Andrew Panton) were together effective, unique and lovely to watch as was the musical direction. This electrical piece of theatre is an explosion of excellence in every department..

If you see anything at this years fringe make sure it is One Academy's Production of Spring Awakening even if you have to beg borrow or steal your way in!

19/08/2010