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‘Spring’ has sprung overtly
An energetic all-cast song called “Totally ——ed” was easily and deservedly the audience favorite Tuesday, Nov. 2, during the first of two performances of “Spring Awakening.”
In another era, the German schoolboy who had just been asked by authorities if he wrote and drew the homemade sex manual they were brandishing, might have sung something like this: “The Jig Is Up” or “Guilty as Charged.”
Not in this funny, sad and energized show, which leaves little to be interpreted when it comes to sexuality. A boy and girl simulate a sex act at the end of Act 1 and repeat it at the start of Act 2 while a preacher speaks in the background for good measure. The center of one scene is masturbation. Another features two boys who kiss and grapple enthusiastically.
Very well performed and blessed with distinctive characters, “Spring Awakening” effectively conveys the impact of pent-up natural youthful desire, some of the consequences of repressing it and, especially, the immediacy of being young. Waiting is often out of the question.
Parent and adult authority figures are portrayed harshly, leaving a question as to whether the young characters in the show will grow up to be better parents, teachers and advisors than these.
If so, a sequel called “Winter Awakening” might be apropos. But it wouldn’t be nearly as shocking. Those parents might be pilloried for being permissive.
The local premiere of “Spring Awakening” will continue with one more performance at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 3, at the Victoria Theatre, First and Main streets. For ticket information, call (937) 228-3630 or go to www.ticketcenterstage.com.
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By Bendover Mountain
November 3, 2010 4:03 PM | Link to this
Well sprang my dustycuffs.