Spring Awakening Opens in Toronto with OBC Member in Lead Role

Broadway's smash hit and 2007 Tony Award Winner for Best Musical Spring Awakening opened this week in Toronto, with a new actor in the lead role of Melchior.  Matt Doyle, a swing in the Original Broadway Cast, has joined the touring cast of the production for the Toronto engagement only.  Mr. Doyle is replacing Kyle Riabko, the current Melchior on the tour, while he takes a leave to film a television pilot.  The touring production also features Blake Bashoff as Moritz and Christy Altomare as Wendla.

Unfortunately, Mr. Doyle was unable to make it to Toronto in time for the first show on Tuesday March 17^th, however he was able to attend the press events on Wednesday and will be performing the show for the remainder of the Toronto run. 

Spring Awakening was an overnight success on Broadway, a musical like nothing anyone had seen before. It is based on the 1891 German play of the same title by Frank Wedekind.  Music by Duncan Sheik and lyrics by Steven Sater turned this controversial play into a controversial musical that had teenagers coming from all over the world to see it in New York City.  The musical cleaned up at the 2007 Tony Awards, taking home the trophy for Best Musical as well as awards for direction, score, book and featured actor (John Gallagher Jr).  Unfortunately, Spring Awakening closed on Broadway on January 18^th, 2009, however, this allowed for the launch of an incredibly popular tour.

The show deals with very difficult and mature subject matter, including such issues as sex and sexuality, rape, abuse, abortion and masturbation.  Its cast is comprised of actors almost entirely under the age of 20, who handle the material with brilliant ease.  And it isn't just the material that sets Spring Awakening apart.  The show also uses some very unique and impressive lighting and seating arrangements to make it a truly original theatre-going experience.  For example, there are a limited number of on-stage seats that can be purchased, where as an audience member you get to enjoy the show from an entirely different perspective, with cast members sitting all around you.

Another interesting casting choice for Canadians who go and see the show is Steffi D, who plays the role of Isle.  The only Canadian to be cast in a lead role, Steffi D placed fifth in the 2006 season of Canadian Idol. 

Spring Awakening opened on March 17^th at the Canon Theatre, and is schedule to play until April 19^th.  Tickets can be purchased through Mirvish by calling 1-800-461-3333 or visiting the website www.mirvish.com/spring.  Tickets can also be purchased directly at the theatre box office located at 244 Victoria St. in Toronto.  Tickets range from $20-$99.

A limited number of student rush seats are also being made available on a first come, first serve basis.  These tickets are $25 a piece, and are available two hours prior to the show at the box office (12PM for matinees and 6PM for evening performances).  Valid student ID must be presented and tickets are limited to one per person.

On stage seating is also available however cannot be purchased online.  If you are interested in on-stage seating tickets are available by phone or at the box office.  These tickets are $25 and offer a side or rear view of the performance.  You must also arrive early enough to be seated prior to the performance, and be prepared to check your coat, bags and other personal items before being seated.

For more information on the production and the tour, visit the official site at www.springawakening.com

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