Review: SPRING AWAKENING, Almeida Theatre

Photo credit: Marc Brenner

Rupert Goold’s production of this feisty musical, following a group of teenagers’ sexual awakenings in late 19th-century Germany and the complications arising from the repressive systems in place between elders and their children, is a powerful show that demonstrates excellent ensemble work, dynamic performances, stellar choreography and impressive design.

A striking black staircase forms the entire set and before the show begins, one thinks, how on earth will a musical with dance numbers take place? Lynne Page’s choreography is genius in how it uses the stairs in the ensemble's dance numbers, however by the first number, one entirely forgets that there are stairs at all. The choreography is incredibly unique, organic, sharp and excellently executed by the force of energy brought by its young cast.

Whilst the technical mastery is commendable, one hindrance perhaps imposed on the cast is the practical difficulty on which it is to perform on such a steep staircase - juggling the control of energy and pacing, the task of manoeuvring oneself on such steps, whilst also having to fully inhabit the emotional worlds of the characters. At times, the surface is simply too polished to fully let the audience in emotionally.

The cast however are excellent, dynamic, in tune with one another which makes this ensemble so tight. When they come together, it is like an amoeba; one group of cells seamlessly moving as one in different shapes across the stage. Particular performances which shine include Stuart Thompson as the sensitive and doomed Moritz, Zheng Xi Yong as Ernst and Nathan Armarkweir- Laryea as Hanschen. The latter couple share a poignant, funny and romantic scene towards the very end of the play that restores some hope as the couple joyfully unite and skip off of the stage in the wake of the many deaths that occur throughout the play, which speak to the dangers of the deceit and the shielding of sexual truths from this generation.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Viv Williams

Spring Awakening runs at the Almeida Theatre until 22 January 2022, with tickets available here.