Spring Awakening - review

[Jane Zussman]

Spring Awakening is a powerful multi-media experience on the Pasant stage at Wharton Center. MSU theatre students fully embody teen angst, desire, confusion, frustration, rebellion and more. 

As Wikipedia tells us, this musical “... is based on the 1891 German play Spring Awakening by Frank Wedekind. Set in late 19th-century Germany, the musical tells the story of teenagers discovering the inner and outer tumult of adolescent sexuality.” While some of the parent/teacher/clergy power dynamics have evolved over the years, some universal conflicts still exist in our time. Check out director Brad Willcuts’ enlightening program note at https://theatre.msu.edu/awakening/

We were seated in the very last row which gave a lofty overview of the stage picture and artistic lighting effects (Lilian Meyers). But the transformative feature of this production (even for those seated closer) were the three large video screens that brought us an intimate view, showing real-time close-ups of the actors from multiple cameras, some being shot by operators walking onstage. 

These gave us facial expressions and up-close details (such as “wicked” written on a bandage on the right hand of some actors.) The camera work was intricate and varied, following the action, focusing attention. Check the online program for the names of the large number of people involved in the video work, coordinated by Lisa Whiting Dobson with video engineer Brian Kusch.

Credit also goes to intimacy coordinators Katherine Clemons and Alexis Black (who was also fight choreographer.) Audiences should be aware that sexual activities are simulated in this production in dramatic good taste but could be upsetting to some. This is at least PG-13 including sexuality, child-abuse, abortion and suicide.

The entire cast was excellent, particularly leads Olivia Bath as Wendla, Matt Atalek as Melchior and Andrew Brown as Moritz. The great 8-piece band was under the direction of Dave Wendelberger. I was not able to understand all the lyrics to the songs, but found this website helpful if you want to check lyrics out before or after attending the show. https://www.allmusicals.com/s/springawakening.htm

Spring Awakening continues through April 14. Tickets at https://www.whartoncenter.com/events/category/dept-of-theatre

Jane Zussman

G.L.U.T. List

(Greater Lansing Ubiquitous Theatre)

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