The rock musical "Spring Awakening" -- written by Steven Sater and Duncan Sheik and based on the 19th-century German play by Frank Wedekind -- received eight Tony Awards in 2007. Now, the Rev. Shawn Clerkin brings this tale of teenage desperation to Gannon University's Schuster Theatre.
On a sparse black stage broken up only by a hayloft and occasional chairs, the youths spring into vibrant life undimmed by the drab clothing their elders force upon them. Some scenes dramatically display the difference between their outer discipline and inner angst as they struggle to concentrate on lessons that seem unimportant in the midst of their roiling hormones.
Chief among these teens is Melchior, whose philosophical melancholy is embodied by Luis Pontillo. He bears the name of a Wise Man of the Nativity tradition, but as he shares his keen understanding of the world with his two most naive peers, he lacks the wisdom to equip them to deal with the consequences of this new insight. Pontillo's intense portrayal shows us a cocky young prophet whose later anguish is a crucible that could lead to real change.
Golden-voiced Ryann Beaumont exudes innocence as Wendla, a sweet-natured, sheltered girl desperate to comprehend both the joy and pain others experience. With her empathy and curiosity about information adults hide from her, she embodies the show's heart. So does Jared Lossie's croaky-voiced Moritz, a jittery student whose burgeoning sexuality frightens him and distracts him from his already poor schoolwork. Initially coming across as comical, he ultimately offers a powerful demonstration of how deeply the authoritarian system fails its most vulnerable youths.
This musical's rock-infused songs, expertly played by Andrew Rainbow's eight-piece orchestra, reflect the excitement and frustration of a generation coming of age. The remaining eight actors who play teens in this unyielding world convey the yearning for fulfillment and meaning.
Allison Kessler and Natalie Pertz are particularly heartbreaking as Martha and Ilse, who harbor dark family secrets. Patrick Chounet and Brittnie Knight take on all of the adult roles, a subtle way of showing how disconnected these students feel from the adults who surround them. Domineering men and overprotective women enforce rules but refuse to explain them, leading to confusion and rebellion.
"Spring Awakening" is a harsh show that criticizes an establishment that refuses to engage with its future leaders. As profanity is plentiful and most of the characters' "awakenings" revolve around sexuality, this is a show best reserved for teens and adults, though the staging of the most intimate acts, as well as the violence, is tasteful and understated.
In the exuberance and defiance of these teens a century removed from the present, we see the value of youthful self-expression and exploration balanced by open communication with those who possess the benefit of experience.