The Ballard High School (BHS) Playmakers will stage the teen angst rock musical Spring Awakening virtually on May 13, 14, and 15.
The nature of all teenagers is to question their parents. Back in 1890’s Germany on the cusp of the Industrial Revolution, things were no different. Spring Awakening is based on German playwright Frank Wedekind’s controversial play from 1891. It was so scandalous in its day for addressing sex, violence, and suicide that it was not staged until 1906. This contemporary production was first staged on Broadway in 2006, with a rock soundtrack by Duncan Sheik.
The story follows three teenagers in a small German village: blossoming 14-year-old Wendla; socially awkward Moritz; and their fearless classmate Melchior. Raised by prudish parents in a repressive school environment, they experience the dawn of their own sexuality. Inevitably they awaken to both joy and pain, with little direction from the adults around them.
“Teenagers face hardships in every generation and this year has been no exception,” says BHS Theatre Director Shawn M. Riley. “I chose this play because the message of Spring Awakening is that whatever you’re going through and whoever you are, your feelings are valid and you absolutely have a voice.”
Ballard’s virtual production is directed by Riley with musical direction by BHS choir teacher Courtney Rowley. Eia Waltzer choreographed the show and BHS alumnus Gustavo Gutierrez is director of photography and editing.
Note: Parental Guidance Advisory for explicit language and content.
Trigger Warning: The musical addresses adult and teenage themes, such as teen pregnancy, suicide, academic pressure, and social acceptance. During the run of the show there will be virtual talk-backs with mental health professionals. Look for meeting dates/times at ballardperformingarts.org as we get closer to showtime.
Tickets
The ticket price is $25. Order tickets at www.showtix4u.com and you will be provided a link to watch it on the evening you select. For any questions please contact Shawn Riley at [email protected].
Performance Details
The play will livestream May 6, 7, 8 and 13, 14, 15 at 7:30 p.m. Performers rehearsed completely via Microsoft Teams and Zoom. Purchasing a “streaming” ticket is the same as buying a ticket to a traditional live production. You will receive an email from SHOWTIX4U.com with the link in it for viewing the show.
NOTE: The ticket you buy will indicate the specific date you chose on the website. The link is only good for one viewing on that day. It is not a live link that can be sent to others to watch the show when you are finished with it.
