Glory ½Struck Productions presents:

Spring Awakening in Concert for Love is Louder

The Fans of MuMo were happy to attend Glory Struck’s production of Spring Awakening in Concert at the beautiful Hayworth Theater on opening night. There have been many productions of this Tony Award winning show in the last few years around Los Angeles, and I would have to say that this cast, with Kate Sullivan-Gibbens direction, really sets this show apart.

            Glory Struck is a production company dedicated to producing contemporary art that focuses on socially relevant issues in an effort to inspire collective action.  GS, along with the Love is Louder campaign, an organization promoting the message of love and support to fight depression in youth, have taken this gripping 1890’s German story and presents how it still can resonate in today’s society.

            I have seen this show many times, as it is my second favorite show, and I would have to say that Kelley Jakle in the lead of Wendla could possibly be my favorite interpretation of the character. She has a powerhouse voice, yet still has a lingering of innocence, which is so important for this coming of age girl. I’ll admit that “Whispering” is a track I usually skip on the album, but watching Jakle I finally had one of those “Oh, now I get it!” moments, that not even Lea Michelle could do for me.

            Another mention has to be made for Topher Rhys’s performance for Mortiz, the saddest of the characters, as this trouble youth is put through the ringer of his time. Rhys is truly exceptional and helped win over my theater guest who previously didn’t care for the show.

            Something I think I can say for this cast is that they are all believers in the Love is Louder organization and I you can see it in their performance. This is a group of creators who want to make a difference with their art, and if the rest of their run is anything like opening night, there is change to come!

This is definitely not a show to miss, one of the best performace of Spring Awakening in resent years. (Jennifer Barnes)  

Tickets $25 Friday Saturday Sunday Through July 29th

Reservations-  323 980 7780 

Hayworth Theater- 2511 Wilshire Blvd.