EAST Berkshire Operatic Society (EBOS)is in the final stages of rehearsal for its musical performance of a hard hitting classic text.
Spring Awakening, inspired by German playwright Frank Wedekind’s once-banned and ground-breaking 1891 play of the same name, tells a story of turbulent adolescent sexuality.
The musical version, by Steven Sater and Duncan Sheik opened in New York City in 2006, and London in 2009, and won eight Tony Awards and four Oliviers.
Set in Germany, it tells the story of a group of teenagers who feel silenced and controlled by a censorious society.
They discover a new world of feeling and freedom, with beautiful – and devastating – consequences.
It’s not an easy watch, covering as it does, issues of teenage sexuality, pregnancy, homosexuality and suicide.
But it has been sensitively managed by director Duncan Bruce.
“Yes, it’s hard hitting, but it’s also very thought provoking,” he said.
“There are very much two worlds in the play; the real world of the text, and another sung world.
“The music is very beautiful, with heart wrenching melodies in the style of folk infused indie rock and power ballads, which manage to balance the subject matter.”
To help them deal sensitively and responsibly with the difficult issues the play raises, an intimacy expert has supported the actors during the rehearsal process.
“The story is about six teen boys, and five teen girls, with two adults playing all the other roles, but because of the subject matter, all the cast are over 18,” he explained.
“We’re very lucky to have a great team of experienced actors, capable of handling this so well.
“There’s a strong narrative to the evening, some elements of closure, and definitely lots to think about on the way home.”
For a powerful drama with haunting music, people should make their way to Pinewood Theatre in Wokingham.
Spring Awakening can be seen there from Tuesday, September 17, through to Saturday, September 21.
Doors open at 7.45pm, with tickets available for £15.
For tickets and information, visit: www.ebos.org.uk
