SPRING AWAKENING

Director's Notes

When Spring Awakening’s writers Sater and Sheik said about their ground-breaking musical: “I don’t think you would have had people in Hamilton, singing hip hop in period costumes, without it”, they were not overstating.

The influence and success of this critically acclaimed show cannot be denied. There is a good reason why it scooped 8 Tony Awards on Broadway and four Olivier Awards (including Best New Musical) for it’s London run.

Spring Awakening has an army of faithful fans and many of those who have starred in its various productions (such as Lea Michele and Jonathan Groff) have gone on to have hugely successful careers in theatre and beyond.

But why does Spring Awakening continue to delight audiences around the world?

Could it be it’s intelligent, thought-provoking script derived from Frank Wedekind’s play of the same name written in 1890?

Is it the timelessness of it’s themes, peppered through the production, which feel as relevant today as they were back in the late nineteenth century?

Perhaps it’s because we can all relate to the angst ridden teens at the heart of it’s story as we track their journey through adolescence and share their highs and lows as they come of age and discover their feelings?

Maybe it’s the electrifying score, combining rock and folk music in an eclectic mix that has you holding your breath due to its beauty and power?

Or how about those tonal contrasts; comedic moments as well as intensely serious ones, making you laugh and cry in equal measure?

The simple answer is that it’s all these ingredients and more.

My passion for this musical has never wavered since I first saw the original Broadway production in 2007. Instead, it has continued to grow with every new, unique but equally powerful production I have had the privilege to attend. The emotional honesty of the piece continues to bowl me over.

The rehearsal period has been joyous and intense and my wonderful cast and crew have tackled the emotional gravity of the scenes with sensitivity and care. The rehearsal room has been a safe space where all have supported each other. This has made rehearsals all the more beautiful and fulfilling.

I have waited a long time, with the help of a hugely talented cast and superb artistic and creative team, to unleash my creative vision for this show on you, the audience. I cannot thank everyone involved enough for the heart and commitment they have brought to this piece. I hope it touches and inspires you the same way it has for all of us!

Chris Gilbey-Smith, Director
MARCH, 2025