‘Spring Awakening’ Takes A Provocative Look At The Transition Between Adolescence To Adulthood
“Spring Awakening” is currently on view at OnStage Atlanta until Aug. 24.
Courtesy of On Stage Atlanta
The current production at OnStage Atlanta is the Tony Award-winning musical “Spring Awakening.” It explores the raw angst of adolescence and how navigating adulthood can been tricky without the proper guidance.
The story is based on a controversial work by German playwright, Franz Wedekind, written in 1891. It has been given a modern twist with a twenty-first century score by Duncan Sheik. Sheik is mostly known for his 90s hit single, “Barely Breathing,” but he made the switch to composing a musical in the early 2000s. The musical had its Broadway debut in 2006 and immediately had national success. Lois Reitzes spoke with director Charlie Miller and actor Emily Winchell, who plays Wendla, about the musical.
Wendla’s character is a curious young teen, who wants to know about the world around her and her changing body. Wendla’s curiosity and lack of knowledge leads her into some compromising situations. The musical is for mature audiences, but Winchell believes that the show’s relevancy is a must.
“I think the most important thing is regardless of your age, are you willing to listen to the story we’re trying to tell? If you’re ready and willing to listen, then I’m happy to tell it,” said Winchell.
After 40 years of being “homeless,” OnStage Atlanta has moved into a permanent space on North Decatur Road. “Spring Awakening” will be the first musical held at the new space.
“When you come to see the show with such an immediate expression of theater and it’s so emotional, you sort of get wrapped up in the intimacy of the space,” said Miller.
The musical is currently on stage now through Aug. 24.
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