Spring is here (well, it will be as soon as the sun returns,) and so is Spring Awakening. The highly anticipated rock musical is finally at the Providence Performing Arts Center, and the rumors are all true: it is a provocative, kick-a** show with lots of amazing music.

I had already seen the show on Broadway before it closed its doors this past January, and I came to this production full of melancholy and excitement because I knew it would probably be the last opportunity I got to see the show. As soon as I walked into the theater, I knew I would not be disappointed. The set looked as good as it did on Broadway, complete with red bricks, mirrors, a blackboard, chalk, and the famous stage seating. The presence of the band on stage enhanced the entire experience: the music was louder, more powerful and more in tune (no pun intended) with the actors, whose energy made for loud, clear and beautiful singing.

If you listened to my piece on the show, you already know that Spring Awakening is an award-winning musical that deals with issues of sexuality, religion and education. Set in 1890s Germany, the show takes these sensitive issues and brings them to the audience’s attention through modern music, provocative language and in-your-face action. What I liked best about Spring Awakening is that it always goes all the way. You want sex? You got it. Family issues? Coming right up. Religious rebellion? Hell yes. It shies away from nothing. And while sometimes that means excessive swearing in the song “Totally F***ed,”(which, by the way, gets the longest and loudest applause of the show) or a comedic homosexual encounter that doesn’t really serve in forwarding the plot all that much (but gets many laughs,) Spring Awakening states its opinion and drives it all the way in (again, no pun intended.)

The cast is phenomenal. Young and lively, yet completely aware of the importance of their message, the actors delivered lines and music with emotion and dynamism. Kyle Riabko, who plays the bright, defiant and very sexy lead character Melchior, had already performed on Broadway, along with Blake Bashoff, the eccentric Moritz. (Note: If you’re a fan of Lost, you might recognize Blake as Karl, Rousseau’s daughter’s boyfriend.) Their experience shows in their moving and powerful performances, which are by no means easy to play. Christy Altomare, who I interviewed last week, nailed the part of Wendla in her innocent yet lustful discovery of her sexuality. But the actress who stood out the most was Steffi D, “Canadian Idol” 2006 Top 5 finalist, Steffi’s portrayal of Ilse, the victimized outcast of the group, was extraordinary. While instrumental in the plot, her character is by no means central, but she steals the spotlight more than once. Her duet with Blake Bashoff “Don’t Do Sadness/Blue Wind” was my favorite part of the musical. Not to be overlooked are the two adults in the show, played by Angela Reed and Henry Stram. Because they play all the adult parts in the musical, versatility is crucial, and Reed and Stram really nailed it, be it in the hilarious representation of the sexy piano teacher, or the heartbreaking performance of Moritz’ father.

By far the most gratifying element to Spring Awakening is its music. Composed by Duncan Sheik, it is the perfect mixture of catchy, mesmerizing and engaging, all essential elements for a successful musical. I can’t remember how many soundtracks I noticed being sold at the merchandise stand, as soon as intermission. Favorites include the challenging “All That’s Known,” the shocking and heartrending “The Dark I Know Well,” “And Then There Were None,” and as mentioned earlier, the “Don’t Do Sadness/Blue Wind” duet.

Whether you’ve seen Spring Awakening before or not, you do not want to miss this Tour, in Providence at the Providence Performing Arts Center from April 21-26. Get your tickets at PPACRI.org or by calling 401-421-ARTS. If you’re getting stage seats, I’d recommend requesting stage left… Just trust me.

Spring Awakening: it’s exciting and challenging, and you just might leave wanting some action back at home yourself…