Review: Spring Awakening, Hazlitt Theatre, Sunday, August 19

by Liz White

The controversial, 1891 German play by Wedekind, was brought bang up to date by Producer and Director Mhairi MacKinnon, founder of Stairway Theatre Company.

Delivering a contemporary twist as a rock musical adaptation, the production managed to keep the traditional feel and look of the 19th century.

Far removed from the Hazlitt Theatres’ usual repertoire, the musicals plot (advertised with a parental warning of explicit content) revolved around the sexual awakening of teenagers dealing with issues such as suicide, peer pressure, rape, love, abortion and homosexuality.

Performed by a passionate and skilful young cast who sang their hearts out, this was a bold premier production from Stairway Theatre Company.

Casting included students from the Mandy Ellen School of Dance and special mention should be given to the sweet voice of Kelsie Graham (Wendla), the strong male lead Chris Ranaldi, the cheeky stage presence of Ant White (Georg) and the two superb actors cast in the adult roles.

Peter-Lee Harper played the school professor with the cynicism of Harry Potters ‘Professor Snape’ and the deviousness of Mr. Bumble from ‘Oliver’ whilst Lucy Frederick played comedy and tragedy with equal ease and effectiveness.

A shocking production? If you are sensitive to swearing and simulated sex on stage then yes…but this was performed with such professionalism that offence would only be taken by those who didn’t listen to the productions message and the emotions behind those swear words.

The production oozed the gritty reality of life. I did wonder if Maidstone would embrace this 19th century sexually charged show – it did!

An emotive, gutsy, thought provoking and highly entertaining production which played to a packed house - even on that hot summer’s night.