This article first appeared in the St. Louis Beacon, Oct. 8, 2012 - Banned in 19th-century Germany, “Spring Awakening” is still edgy -- and relevant -- in 2012. The modern adaptation of Frank Wedekind’s coming-of-age play, with music by Duncan Sheik and lyrics and book by Steven Sater, is in capable hands under the direction of Stray Dog’s Justin Been.
The Gist:
Ignorance abounds and hormones fly in the teenage world of the 1890s. Young Wendla (Melissa Southmayd in the role debuted on Broadway by Lea Michele of “Glee”), begs her mother to tell her the facts of life but Mama can only bring herself to speak of love. Similarly naive, Wendla's peer Moritz (Ryan Foizey) believes his erotic dreams are spawned by insanity.
Moritz’s best friend Melchior (played by Zach Wachter, in a solid performance) tries to help but his assistance ultimately backfires. Moritz’s issues spiral way beyond wet dreams when he’s unfairly kicked out of school.
Adult problems ultimately consume the worlds of Wendla and Melchior following an initially confusing sexual encounter. And the grownups around them, mostly dark, imposing figures all well played by Jan Niehoff and Keith Thompson, offer more condemnation than counsel.
Yet, these children are at the mercy of their teachers, mothers and fathers -- one fact of life they do understand: “How will know what to do if our parents don’t tell us?” implores Thea (Sabra Sellers).
Only Melchior thinks for himself. After Wendla resists his advances, admonishing him with, “We’re not supposed to,” he replies: “Not supposed to -- what? Love?”
A Sample:
The play gives several non-leads a turn in the spotlight, creating many of this staging’s most satisfyingly intense moments. One features Wendla’s friend Martha (Meadow Nguy) and a former childhood friend Ilse (Anna Skidis).
Nguy and Skidis shine in a haunting performance of a song about sexual abuse. In “The Dark I Know Well,” the pair recalls the vile, twisted words their fathers whispered when approaching them in the night.
God, it’s good – the lovin’ – ain’t it good tonight?
You ain’t seen nothing yet – gonna treat you right.
It’s just you and me
Child you’re a beauty
There’s a part I can’t tell
About the dark I know well
A Warning:
Parents should know that “Spring Awakening includes nudity, and adult language and situations.
