Clark Theatre presents “Spring Awakening”

Nikolas Hoback as Melchior, center, in rehearsal for the winter musical, Spring Awakening.

Clark College Theatre is proud to present as its 2014 winter quarter musical production the award-winning exploration of repressed youth, Spring Awakening. The production is directed by Rusty Tennant and runs February 28 – March 15.

Winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Spring Awakening is a rock musical adaptation of Frank Wedekind’s 1891 expressionist play about the trials and tribulations–as well as the exhilaration–of the teen years. It features music by Duncan Sheik and a book and lyrics by Steven Sater. Spring Awakening celebrates the unforgettable journey from youth to adulthood with  power, poignancy, and passion.

A stinging indictment of 19th-century repression, Wedekind’s original play was banned after its release. Even today and translated into musical form, Spring Awakening’s themes of sexuality, abuse, rape, incest, suicide, and abortion are still highly controversial and emotionally charged. “Clark College Theatre is taking a conscious path toward developing the student as a performing artist,” says Rusty Tennant, who is also the Artistic Director of Fuse Theatre Ensemble. “Our goal is to provide ample opportunity for students to participate in work that is relevant to the current trends and movements in the world of theatre. Spring Awakening is a critically acclaimed show based on a revolutionary play, with young adults composing the majority of the cast. In so many ways, this is the perfect play for us to present.”

Tennant adds that Spring Awakening isn’t just controversial: It is also a terrific musical filled with haunting melodies. “I find myself singing the songs all the time,” he says. “That is not just a testimony to this revolutionary score, but also to the amazing singers I have been able to bring together for this production. This cast is singing from the deepest corners of their souls, and that makes for some exciting theatre.”

Cast includes Nikolas Hoback (Melchior), Gina Fuerte-Stone (Moritz), and Petya Grozevna (Wendla). Production includes partial nudity, strong language, and adult themes.

Show Dates: February 28, March 1, 7, 8, 13, 14, and 15. March 8, there will be a 2:00 p.m. matinee. All show times are at 7:30 p.m.

Ticket Information: Students (with ID) $11; Alumni (with membership) $11; Senior Citizens $13; General Admission $15. Tickets may be purchased in person at the Clark College Bookstore in Gaiser Hall, online, or call 360-992-2815.

If you need accommodation due to a disability in order to fully participate in this event, contact Clark College’s Disability Support Services Office at 360-992-2314 or 360-991-0901 (VP), or visit Gaiser Hall room 137, two weeks before the event.

Photos: Clark College/Jenny Shadley