BARB BOYER BUCK
Students from the Eagle Rock School and Professional Development Center in Estes Park are performing in the rock musical, “Spring Awakening,” which opens tonight at the Rialto Theater in Loveland. Performances are April 1-3, at 7 p.m. and are free to attend.
The musical is based on the 1891 play of the same name by Frank Wedekind and features music by Duncan Sheik and book and lyrics by Steven Sater.
The story examines the effects of repression in a small community whose teenagers are confronting their budding sexuality. Fearful, confused, and ignorant, the young characters in the play act out in violent and self-destructive ways that have grave consequences. Mature themes are addressed in this play and it is not recommended for children.
Performing various roles in the musical are Mikaela Bowman, Saben Hinckley, Hunter Gantz, June Jones-Knight, Chemi Lewis, Ember Jones, Emelia Eller, Ziyad Johnstone, Brighid Scanlon, Javonnie Campbell, Cassandra Zambrana, Nigel Taylor, Martin Araiza.
The crew consists of Meghan Tokunaga-Scanlon, director; Brighid Scanlon and Andrew Walker, co-directors; Anneke Toomey, music and orchestra pit director, keyboards; Jean Denney, violin; Sarah Avery, viola; Elizabeth LaManna, cello; Tyler Honsel, bass; Tim Wendel, guitar; Juan Torres, percussion; Barbara Gutierrez, stage crew and props; Katharine Bard, lights; and, Rick Schiller, sound. Jennifer Bass contributed as acting coach to the students.
“I chose Spring Awakening because it brings up many issues of sexuality that teenagers deal with and like the characters in the show, are attempting to understand,” said Tokunaga-Scanlon.
“This is a heavy show with dark subject matter, and not something I would expect every high school to do. However, due to the nature of the issues, it makes me think about the power and healing of the arts.”
The Rialto Theater is located at 228 E 4th Street in Loveland.