Okay, not really. It’s raining, gray, and freaking freezing outside. Spring is actually still months away. BUT! Starting this Friday, you can pretend it’s Spring by heading to the Erickson Theater Off Broadway for Balagan Theater’s production of Spring Awakening.
Image courtesy of Balagan Theater
Okay, maybe that was a stretch. But it’s still a damn fine musical. Set in 1890 Germany, Spring Awakening is the quintessential coming of age story. This rock musical (music by Duncan Sheik of 90s Duncan Sheik fame) is adapted from the controversial play of the same name, written in 1892 by Frank Wedekind. Spring Awakening follows a group of teenagers as they explore relationships, sexuality, and growing up.
This is an amazing musical, guys. The winner of eight Tony awards (including Best Musical 2007), Spring Awakening pushes boundaries and breaks your heart. I don’t want to give too much away because you really ought to see it for yourself, but I will tell you there’s a bit of a Romeo and Juliet/Rocky Horror/Hair/Rock of Ages thing going on here. Okay, maybe I’m actually just listing other things I like. You’ll have to see it for yourself to find out.
Balagan Theater’s production of Spring Awakening is directed by Eric Ankrim (musical direction by Kimberly Dare) and stars Brian Earp, Jerick Hoffer, and Diana Huey. It opens Friday, January 6th and runs through January 15th at the Erickson Theater Off Broadway. Tickets run from $20-$29. Treat yourself to a fancy night out. Perhaps you made a resolution to partake of Seattle’s theater scene more? Start here. GO TO THIS. I’m sorry to get all shout-y but I promise you won’t be disappointed.
(Note: due to the graphic nature of the songs/subject matter, all audience members must be at least 14.)
Diana Huey is a great performer and director Eric Ankrim (will be starring in The 5th Avenue’s Oklahoma soon) is fantastic! I know the show is in good hands with him!