Spring Awakening – Greenside @ Riddles Court

Dynamic Theatre presents the story of the sexual awakening amongst a group of teenagers at a strict religious school in Germany in the late 19^th Century. As you might imagine, this requires a delicate directorial touch and sensitive staging approach, all of which Dynamic passed with flying colours. This production also includes scenes of a sexual nature as well as teen suicide, which perhaps could have been better advised by the theatre staff.

The singing quality in this production is really excellent as evidenced from the first opening number, Mama Who Bore Me, with some beautiful harmonies. The acting is also particularly strong given the challenging environment that the teenagers find themselves in, repressed and abused by the adults at seemingly every turn.

If that all sounds rather staid, and gloomy, worry not there are moments of joy and pure release in some of the more upbeat numbers. The band, packed in at the back of a tiny stage are also particularly noteworthy (no pun intended!).

On the downside, the venue is small and there is restricted view from any seats that are not in the front row. That said, this is a chance to see a fine production of this difficult but very beautiful musical.

Running time – 1hr 50 mins (inc 15 minute interval)

Reviewer: Greg Holstead

Reviewed: 8^th August 2023

North West End UK Rating: