Breaking News: SPRING AWAKENING Film to Begin Production This Year?

In a recent interview with the San Diego Union-Tribune, Tony winner Duncan Sheik revealed that the time is drawing near for the highly-anticipated film version of his 2006 musical- Spring Awakening. He told the UT: "We're trying to get the "Spring Awakening" movie made this year. It's in process, and we have a fancy director (McG) and a fancy producer (Playtone, Tom Hanks' company) involved. So fingers crossed we'll be diving into it."

Regarding new music for the movie, he added: "You always have to write a new song. People say all kinds of stuff about this: 'Oh, we really needed this moment of emotion for the character to come alive.' But the real truth always is that it's the only way you're eligible for an Academy Award, is to have a new song."

Casting for the project has not yet been announced.

Click here to read the full interview.

Set against the backdrop of a repressive and provincial late 19th century Germany, Spring Awakening tells the story of adolescent self-discovery and budding sexuality as seen through the eyes of three teenagers - Melchior, Moritz and Wendla. In a haunting and provocative story, Spring Awakening celebrates the journey from youth to adulthood.

Based on the 1891 Frank Wedekind play, Spring Awakening features an rock-inspired score by Duncan Sheik, book and lyrics by Steven Sater. The Broadway production was directed by Michael Mayer and choreographed by the award-winning Bill T. Jones. The original Broadway production of Spring Awakening opened at the Eugene O'Neill Theatre on December 10, 2006. Its cast included Jonathan Groff, Lea Michele, Skylar Astin and John Gallagher, Jr.

On transferring from the off-Broadway Atlantic Theater, the original US production of Spring Awakening became an overnight sensation. It grossed over $50 million during its two year run at the Eugene O'Neill Theater and a US tour is booked through to 2010. By the end of 2009, productions will have opened in Japanese in Tokyo, Korean in Seoul and German in Vienna. 18 foreign productions are in preparation around the world.