REVIEW: Spring Awakening, Performing Arts Winchester, University of Winchester (From Daily Echo)

REVIEW: Spring Awakening, Performing Arts Winchester, University of Winchester

10:33am Thursday 16th February 2012 in Curtain Call By Ham Quentin

This energetic, sexy, witty, talent packed performance of Sater and Sheik’s musicalisation of Wedekind’s drama of youth received a well deserved standing ovation. Sexual repression seems less of a problem for restlessly burgeoning youth than the pressure from home and school which underpins the drama here.

Too numerous to detail in full, production crew and fearless cast all merit the highest praise for delivering a seamless show packed with enjoyable song and dance, bawdy comedy and a few serious moments.

RYAN GRIMSHAW makes an irresistibly droll debut with this group, sharing that and an intimate duet with CHRISTIAN COELHO. Playing most of the adult characters, RYAN BEER introduces himself and OLIVIA ADAMS bows out with fine acting performances.

PAUL BUDGEN is charismatic and convincing in the lead role and JORDAN LOWDELL-HOYTE’S stylish performance is a true pleasure to see. Even amongst so many fine singers, ROSIE SOMMERVILLE’S voice is remarkable.