Groff and Michele To Play Final 'Spring' Performance

The producers of Spring Awakening, Broadway's groundbreaking musical hit, are pleased to announce that Kyle Riabko will step into the role of Melchior on May 23rd. On May 20th, Alexandra Socha will take over the role of Wendla.  They are taking over the roles created by Jonathan Groff and Lea Michele who will be playing their final performance on May 18th

 Canadian, Riabko will be making his Broadway debut. As a singer/songwriter, Kyle has toured extensively with such artists as John Mayer, Maroon 5, BB King and others. His solo album, "Before I Speak", is on the Columbia label. Alexandra Socha is currently featured in the cast where she is in the Ensemble and understudies the role of Wendla.  Socha was cast from an open call in Boston when she was 17. Her other credits include roles at Lyric Stage and American Stage Festival before making her Broadway debut.

 "I am thrilled to be a part of such an inspiring piece, with such an uber-talented cast," says Riabko.  "Spring Awakening was my favorite musical before I was even considered for a role, and now I will be performing it on Broadway-what a trip! I'm going to go to work every day with my head held high, because I am extremely proud of everything the show stands for. This musical is an actor/singer's dream!"  Socha is equally as excited. "My dream was to be on Broadway. I never imagined that from an open call when I was 17, this amazing opportunity would happen. To go from a Broadway debut in an amazing ensemble to playing a leading role in one year is incredible and humbling. I'm so honored!.

 A statement from the producers says "We are very happy and excited to bring these two exceptional talents to the production and welcome them to the Spring Awakening family. We thank Jonathan Groff and Lea Michele for their exceptional performances from the start of our journey at the Atlantic Theatre Company to Broadway. The entire company wishes them much success in their future endeavors."

 Spring Awakening continues its record-breaking run at the Eugene O'Neill Theatre, 230 West 49th Street. The musical, with music by Duncan Sheik, lyrics and book by Steven Sater, is  choreographed by Bill T. Jones and directed by Michael Mayer. It is the recipient of numerous awards including 8 2007 Tony Awards including Best Musical.

 Performance schedule is as follows: Tuesday at 7 pm, Wednesday through Saturday at 8 pm, Saturday at 2 pm and Sunday at 3 pm and 7 pm. For information and tickets call Telecharge.com at 212 239-6200.

 www.springawakening.com 

Photo Credit Mark Rupp