Street Lamp Community Theatre- “The Little Theater That DOES!” presents a beautiful production of a haunting yet poignant story. Spring Awakening is a coming-of-age story of teenagers in 1905 Germany. Originally, The Awakening of Spring was written in 1891 by German playwright Frank Wedekind. Spring Awakening is the reimagined story of Wedekind’s as a rock musical by Steven Sater and Duncan Sheik. SLCT’s Spring Awakening is not to be missed. There is so much heart and so many stunning performances in this production, it’s very puzzling as to why the town of Rising Sun and the theater community isn’t running to catch this masterpiece of a production.
Directed by Matthew Peterson, this production helms an amazing group of actors. Peterson’s direction connects the story and the emotion in a remarkable, yet simplistic way. Peterson did a masterful job presenting sensitive topics and hard-hitting subjects while leaving the audience unoffended yet shocked. His lighting accents the show beautifully! The color Peterson splashes on the stage seemed to be a beautiful performance on its own.
Christi Janney is a professional choreographer in every sense of the word. Janney’s remarkable ability to connect the psychological process of the characters with the emotions and movement is amazing and unmatched by any choreographer in the area. The thought and talent of this genus is unrivaled. It’s a gift to watch her work.
If she is not already, Mia Bray will be the most sought out musical director in Maryland theater. Bray superbly connects the voices of the cast with the written work of Sheik and Duncan. It has been years since theater in this area has heard such a small cast sound as full as the Mormon Tabernacle choir. The vocal dynamics of this cast alone need a review of its very own. It’s so impressive you must hear it to believe it. Bray is a remarkable Music Director and is worth her weight in gold.
This production is bursting through the seams with talent and Peterson masterfully directs each of them so well. It seems like each character is performing their own show and plot line individually.
Daniel Michel (Otto), Stephanie Peterson (Thea), Jessica Simonson (Anna), Sara Ulrich (Clara), Kalea Bray (Frieda), Mariel Hazelwood (llse), and Madison Kroner (Greta) each of these actors are wonderful. The emotional journey these actors lead the audiences through is truly amazing. Only to be followed up with their vocal power that is stunning and beautiful. These actors alone make this show the best show of the summer season in the area.
Zachary Jackson gives a powerful performance as The Man. Portraying over 8 characters, Jackson performs a myriad of emotions, which he taps into with ease. Jackson’s stage presence is commanding and intimidating.
Stanley Evans’ performance of Georg is hysterical and full of teen angst! Evans is able to find the humor in the character’s hormones while fleshing out the character so he isn’t just another hormonal-driven teenager you can see in any teen movie. Evans’ piano scene is a highlight of the show.
Elle Miles gives a beautiful haunting portrayal of Martha. Her version of “The Dark I Know Well” is disturbing and heartbreaking. The pain in her eyes is truly troubling. Ms. Miles’ voice is an amazing instrument. Her vocality and emotions are truly remarkable.
Eric Bray gives another powerhouse performance as Mortiz. Bray’s voice is an amazing instrument that captures an audience with what appears to be very little effort. Mortiz is a deeply troubled character with so many amazing scenes, actors pray for the opportunity to perform such a role. Bray jumps into the role and manages to bring the character to life. Bray’s Mortiz is raw and heart-wrenching in every sense of the word.
Karen Decker portrays The Adult Woman. Decker’s ability to bring so many characters to life with such emotion and passion is unbelievable. Decker portrays 10 characters. Her ability to make each character different is a feat not many actors are capable of. She not only performs this feat, but manages to do it skillfully, and with the ease of a true professional.
Joey Depo and Tristan Jenis give impressive performances as Hanschen and Ernst. Both portray deeply complex characters effortlessly. When they are onstage, audience eyes gravitate to these performers. Depo and Jenis have magnetic chemistry that is unrivaled at this stage.
Eliza Davuleu gives a beautiful performance as Wendla. She exudes innocence, vulnerability, and a sweetness that tugs at the heartstrings. When she sings, her voice seems to float over the audience with a sense of enchantment.
Pat Collins devoured the words, music, and character of Melchior bringing a solid performance to the SLCT stage. He engages the audience all while threading the characters together in a beautiful performance.
It is rare to catch such a powerful musical expertly performed. Get out and see this show!
Street Lamp Community Theatre’s Spring Awakening the Musical closes this weekend, August 4-6! Do not miss this beautiful production. This production is Rated R so leave the kids at home.
Running Time: Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes with one intermission
Spring Awakening plays through August 6th 2023 at Street Lamp Community— 5 Valley View Drive in Rising Sun, MD. For tickets call the box office at (410) 658-5088 or purchase them online.
