‘Spring Awakening’ comes to SLOC Jan. 19-28

By Natasha Vaughn-Holdridge

SCHENECTADY — The musical “Spring Awakening” is coming to SLOC Musical Theater, running Friday through Jan. 28.

This angsty rock musical adaptation of the seminal play explores teenage self-discoveries and coming of age in a celebration of youth and rebellion.

Director Brian Clemente returns to SLOC after directing last season’s production of “A Little Night Music.” “Spring Awakening” attempts to show that the tragedies that befall the characters are preventable, Clemente said in a press release. The cycles of trauma that are passed down from generation to generation can be broken, and if we all work our hardest, one day we will not need to tell this story anymore, he said.

“It is a noble cause,” Clemente said in the release. “And, one that it will take all of us to realize. Until then, however, we do our part and sing this story for all to hear.”

Tickets for the Jan. 19-28 showings start at $25 and are available online through SLOC Musical Theater or in person at the theater at 427 Franklin St. in Schenectady.

Actor Hannah DeStefano plays the female lead of Wendla in the production. She said she was in the show previously in 2021.

“It has been such a blessing to get to return to something so familiar,” DeStefano said. “Everyone in the productions has had the utmost professionalism and creativity, and it’s been so wonderful to be surrounded by so many artists who care about what they do and have great ideas for what we’re doing.”

The topics in the show are heavy, DeStefano said, so building relationships and trust with one another has been crucial. She also warned that the subjects covered in the show might not be geared toward younger audiences.

“No matter the day and age, ‘Spring Awakening’ is a show that has been so relevant since its creation,” DeStefano said. “Which is kind of unfortunate. It covers a lot of topics that kids, teens, youths, adults everyone still go through today. It’s timely and topical.”

Artistic director Michael Camelo said, “This production symbolizes our commitment to fostering meaningful conversations and providing our audiences with thought-provoking experiences here at SLOC. This show stands out as a testament to the enduring power of music and storytelling, and we invite our community to join us on this journey.”