Review: Spring Awakening

A musical that speaks and surprises

SPRING AWAKENING

On 5 February 2009, the controversial musical Spring Awakening premiered on the main stage of the Helsinki City Theatre, the story of which dates back to 1891, when the writer Frank Wedekind wrote the play Frühling Erwachen. The cinematography and story were so bold that its play versions were banned for almost a hundred years.


Sring Awakening depicts moments when childhood is left behind and adulthood begins. It is a time when the body becomes an adult, even though the thoughts still have childlike features and the pain of obtaining information is great. It is even more difficult to obtain information. In the play, the execution of this description is different, even a little confusing, although touching and thought-provoking in its narrative. During the filming, several confusing things from youth are brought up. Love, the awakening of sexuality, masturbation and the first sexual experience, teenage pregnancy, even suicide and abortion, and other current thoughts. Rock music with the spices of a musical is perfect for telling the story, and suitably emphasizes the topicality of the story in the present day.

I am amazed every time by Neil Hardwick’s ability to tell stories. The direction is once again a testament to his skills. Spring Awakening’s ensemble, where young people dance and sing, works. Neil Hardwick makes the stage burst with energy, leaving room for different personalities. The vocal performances, on the other hand, tell of the excellent level of musical performers that the Helsinki City Theatre has at its disposal.

A part of the audience sits on the stage, yes, as part of the performance and still watching the stage work. At the City Theatre, we are used to the fact that the set changes but now that doesn’t happen, but the whole performance takes place with the same backdrop in place. On the other hand, with narration and excellent lighting, the space is made to change time and time again.

I think this musical is suitable for all ages. It recalls youth with its joys and sorrows, and for younger viewers, it can be an experience of the feelings and thoughts of their peers.