5/28/10
Final Class Assignment from the Graduating Class of 1891: A Moment We'll Never Forget
Krista Pioppi
My favorite moment on tour was probably the boat cruise in Chicago! We all got dressed up and danced and celebrated an amazing summer. My favorite city without a doubt was DC. The Kennedy Center, Dupont Circle, I just loved everything about it. And my final words would just be that this isn't goodbye, it's just see you later :) xoxo!
Krystina Alabado
My best memory on tour that I will never ever forget was Christmas 2008 when our tour stopped in my hometown, Tempe, AZ. The entire cast and band came over to my house and we had Christmas dinner all together around this massive table my mom put together. We also had an awesome secret Santa around my tree and drank hot chocolate and just had a great time. It was something I will never ever forget because my actual family and my tour family were united on my favorite time of year!!
My favorite city was definitely San Francisco. It was just the coolest place with so much to do and see and we were there for so long. Also, at that point we were all still starting to get to know each other, so some of my best memories of togetherness are from there.
My final words. Well, these two years have been a wild ride for me. Spring Awakning has been the most beautiful and greatest experience of my life. I have learned so much, met the greatest people that will literally be my family forever, and performed this incredible show all around the country. It has been such an honor to work on a piece like this with such talented people. I will miss this experience with all my heart and will never forget it. It has truly changed my life. And that is also in part to all of you fans and guilty ones out there. Your support and love for us and this show has been mind blowing these past two years. I have never felt so taken care of, honestly. I just want to thank you all so much for everything because without you guys, this experience would not have been the same. So thank you thank you thank you and I'm sure we will meet again! Farewell for now and I love you all!!
Love,
Krystina
Alan Stevens Hewitt
If I had to pick ONE moment (as there are SO many that I will remember), I think it would be the moment during closing night's performance when I realized the profound connection we had with the audience and how the incredible sense of community that I felt with the company was expanded to include every person in the house that night. I've never felt, in a single moment, as connected to as many people and the universe, or God, or whatever you want to call it.
Favorite city is difficult. There were favorites because they happened to be the place where some of my favorite or most memorable moments of the tour occurred, but possibly could have been anywhere. Take Rochester for instance. We had our Cabaret--a high point when we all chose songs that were meaningful to us and that we wanted to share--primarily with each other. I remember that as sort of a musical party we threw for ourselves, and happily opened the door to the invited guests. Rochester was also where Jesse Pardee joined us for a weekend of performances as part of the Make A Wish Foundation's efforts to fulfill the dreams of terminally ill kids. Rochester was also the city where the band had a crucial bonding experience that involved a laser light show (and other details that I won't get into here...).
There were other favorite cities because they exceeded my expectations, or surprised me in some way. Miami, for example, (having never been there) I had been expecting sort of a Vegas on the beach, and consequently not the most, shall we say, sophisticated of audiences, but was blown away by how full, attentive, enthusiastic and savvy the audiences actually were. And then during the off-hours... the beach... the nightlife...
Detroit, a VERY interesting place. Fascinating really. So much of what America is and has ever been and can possibly be in the future is embodied in that one city and its metro area.
Atlanta--to go to work in the unbelievably beautiful Fox Theater every day? And the hotel rooms bigger than most New York City apartments. Robi Hager joined the tour there and was indoctrinated with an epic night involving a hotel-room dry-ice light show by Ben Fankhauser, emergency "bottle cap ring" removal surgery on Anthony and a game of "Sardines", and that was just the beginning...
Final words of farewell? Well, of course I was sad the tour was ending, but I realized that this was also a most beautiful beginning. I look forward to following all the members of the graduating class of 1891 into their future endeavors. And in addition to all the beautiful, brilliant, and amazingly talented colleagues in the cast and band, I am glad to have made friends with many in the "extended family" of SA fans and supporters and look forward to seeing their smiling faces at (and in some cases I am sure, IN) other shows in the future! And above all, I want to express my deepest gratitude to EVERYONE involved with making this all possible.
What's next for me? I co-wrote a rock musical, Lizzie Borden (lizziebordentheshow.com), that was up last Fall here in NYC. It was tremendous fun and it's very gratifying that it was so well-received by audiences and critics alike (nominated for 3 Drama Desk awards this year) and the producers are exploring options for its remounting. I think fans of Spring Awakening, American Idiot, Hedwig, Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson, Tommy, and Rocky Horror would like it, and I hope we get to put it up again and I get to see some of my new SA friends again!!
Other parting words? Be kind to yourselves and to others and, to quote Harry Tuttle from one of my all-time favorite movies Brazil, "We're all in it together."
xo,
Alan
Christy Altomare
My favorite moment on tour has been the moment right before I start Mama every time- ..I am in character, but I can't help noticing all the people in the audience-and it always sort of hit me for a second- the people I knew we were going to effect. This show is a masterpiece. I have never been more proud to be a part of such an incredible work of art. I don't think I can really say what my favorite city is because I have loved so many for different reasons. They all sort of live and breath like different people do. It would be like comparing apples to oranges at this point. I guess I'd just like to end by saying- Thank you Thank you Thank you! For the best two years of my life. Thank you for following me on twitter and sending me comments- I still haven't really figured out how to write back-but I read them all and maybe someday someone will show me- thank you for watching my totally trucked videos and all the nice comments- I had the best time editing them together!!- Thank you so much Pun- for this great site that people who love the show can come and watch our life on tour. Thank you to the Guilty One street team -who spent countless hours promoting our little show that no one in most city's knew what the hell it was- Thank you for coming to see the show over and over and meeting us at the stage door to tell us how much you were touched- You Guilty Ones really helped keep this show alive and ill never forget it - Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. Together we brought a show to this country (and Toronto) - that was so much more than your average musical. To my cast I would like to say. We did it! I will love and miss all the adventures but I have no doubt our paths will cross again!
Love always,
Christy Altomare
Jake Epstein
I'll never forget our closing show in Orlando. It was a truly great moment in my life- being up there on stage with people I love and respect, doing a play that had so much to say and meant so much to so many people, and realizing what an incredible year it's been.
My favourite city- though there were some great ones- was Washington DC. It was my first city officially taking over the role of Melchior, and we had a 4 week run at the Kennedy Center.
What a mindblowing year. I can't even put into words what this year has been. My fingers can't possibly do it justice: It was a dream-come-true, it was hard, it was fun, it was gruelling, it was lonely, it was like camp, it was like theatre school, it was so meaningful, I laughed 'till I cried a lot, I sang more than I've ever sung, I had a blast....it was amazing. Thanks to everyone for coming to the shows and saying hi after! You guys made this show so special.
Steffi D
Dear Guilty Ones,
There are no words to describe how this show has changed my life. I cannot believe that I have gotten the privilege to be a part of telling such a unique, beautiful story. It has been the greatest gift to perform this show every night and portray such a beautiful character. I have fallen in love with Ilse and she will forever be a part of me.
Every single moment on this tour has been amazing... Although, Toronto, Boston and Miami have been my favourite!
Thank you all so much for your support, your gifts and your kind words at the stage door and for making me feel like a rock star. I feel like the luckiest person alive! What would the show be without you?? I’ve had the time of my life and this music has healed me. This has been my biggest dream come true. Here we are, two years later and I’m still so in love with Spring Awakening. This experience will always be in my heart and I will never let it go. Thank you for letting a Canadian bobbed brunette travel to 44 beautiful cities in your country! “Something started crazy... Sweet and unknown.”I hope to see you on stage soon...It’s been awful sweet to be a little butterfly.
Lots of Love and Blue Wind forever,
Steffi D.
Kristen Rosenfeld
Favorite moment: rehearsing on the stage of the Eugene O'Neill. Our first performance when the audience would not stop applauding until the actors took a 4th curtain call. My first time conducting the show. Too many others to list. Favorite city: San Francisco.
I'm so grateful for the opportunity to have been involved with this amazing piece, and with this amazing group of people. Thanks to all the fans and Guilty Ones for all of your support around the country.
Kayla Danielle Foster
A time i will always remember is when i finally got to learn Wendla with Justin as Melchior. it was so amazing to get to grow into the role with someone who was as new to it as i was. Plus, Justin is clearly insanely talented so i felt really lucky to be working with him and i will never forget everything i learned during the process :)
my favorite city was denver! it was the perfect place to be in the winter :) i loved the snow!
Thanks to everyone who worked on spring awakening and all of the fans for making my experience with the show so memorable. i will miss it so much! xo
Taylor Trensch
1. I will never forget walking through the upstage left curtains and seeing an audience for the very first time. It was 8PM on August 14th in Chicago, IL at the Ford Center for the Performing Arts. Ben was a few steps behind me (trembling almost as much as I was), John was settling in his seat across the stage, and Kayla was peeking in her cardigan so as to make sure she brought her microphone with her. After years of auditioning and weeks of rehearsals, the Spring Awakening
opening that I dreamed about had finally arrived.
2. Denver, CO was the bomb dot com. It was a beautiful winter
wonderland. Our show won the Ovation Award for "Best Production." We
had an extremely fun and extremely festive holiday party. One of my
very best friends came to surprise me. And most importantly, there was
a Cheesecake Factory close at hand.
3. Thank you times infinity to all of the extraordinarily kind/way
cool people who came to see Spring Awakening and said hello at the
stage door!
Freddy Hall
I'll never forget sky diving outside of LA.
I'll have to say, aside from all the California cities we played, my favorite has to be the recent stop in Miami!!!!
I would love to thank everyone for their support and amazing encouragement. My new motto is: stay hungry, stay foolish. Life is great if you allow it to be.
Pinky Weitzman
A tour moment that shall live in infamy: as we shambled home from a Scottish-themed faux-Hooters bar (eek) in Denver, Mark Verdino (former bass player, during his last week with us) decided -- despite the fact that it was approximately 8 degrees fahrenheit out -- to drop trou and lingeringly moon both the band and a handful of other (politely amused) Denver citizens. (Photo evidence available for a nominal fee.)
I'm going to miss my SA family - band, cast, and crew - so come to Brooklyn and I'll cook you dinner. Thanks to each of you for making this such a strange and wonderful ride. Love you all!
My favorite moment on tour was probably the boat cruise in Chicago! We all got dressed up and danced and celebrated an amazing summer. My favorite city without a doubt was DC. The Kennedy Center, Dupont Circle, I just loved everything about it. And my final words would just be that this isn't goodbye, it's just see you later :) xoxo!
Krystina Alabado
My best memory on tour that I will never ever forget was Christmas 2008 when our tour stopped in my hometown, Tempe, AZ. The entire cast and band came over to my house and we had Christmas dinner all together around this massive table my mom put together. We also had an awesome secret Santa around my tree and drank hot chocolate and just had a great time. It was something I will never ever forget because my actual family and my tour family were united on my favorite time of year!!
My favorite city was definitely San Francisco. It was just the coolest place with so much to do and see and we were there for so long. Also, at that point we were all still starting to get to know each other, so some of my best memories of togetherness are from there.
My final words. Well, these two years have been a wild ride for me. Spring Awakning has been the most beautiful and greatest experience of my life. I have learned so much, met the greatest people that will literally be my family forever, and performed this incredible show all around the country. It has been such an honor to work on a piece like this with such talented people. I will miss this experience with all my heart and will never forget it. It has truly changed my life. And that is also in part to all of you fans and guilty ones out there. Your support and love for us and this show has been mind blowing these past two years. I have never felt so taken care of, honestly. I just want to thank you all so much for everything because without you guys, this experience would not have been the same. So thank you thank you thank you and I'm sure we will meet again! Farewell for now and I love you all!!
Love,
Krystina
Alan Stevens Hewitt
If I had to pick ONE moment (as there are SO many that I will remember), I think it would be the moment during closing night's performance when I realized the profound connection we had with the audience and how the incredible sense of community that I felt with the company was expanded to include every person in the house that night. I've never felt, in a single moment, as connected to as many people and the universe, or God, or whatever you want to call it.
Favorite city is difficult. There were favorites because they happened to be the place where some of my favorite or most memorable moments of the tour occurred, but possibly could have been anywhere. Take Rochester for instance. We had our Cabaret--a high point when we all chose songs that were meaningful to us and that we wanted to share--primarily with each other. I remember that as sort of a musical party we threw for ourselves, and happily opened the door to the invited guests. Rochester was also where Jesse Pardee joined us for a weekend of performances as part of the Make A Wish Foundation's efforts to fulfill the dreams of terminally ill kids. Rochester was also the city where the band had a crucial bonding experience that involved a laser light show (and other details that I won't get into here...).
There were other favorite cities because they exceeded my expectations, or surprised me in some way. Miami, for example, (having never been there) I had been expecting sort of a Vegas on the beach, and consequently not the most, shall we say, sophisticated of audiences, but was blown away by how full, attentive, enthusiastic and savvy the audiences actually were. And then during the off-hours... the beach... the nightlife...
Detroit, a VERY interesting place. Fascinating really. So much of what America is and has ever been and can possibly be in the future is embodied in that one city and its metro area.
Atlanta--to go to work in the unbelievably beautiful Fox Theater every day? And the hotel rooms bigger than most New York City apartments. Robi Hager joined the tour there and was indoctrinated with an epic night involving a hotel-room dry-ice light show by Ben Fankhauser, emergency "bottle cap ring" removal surgery on Anthony and a game of "Sardines", and that was just the beginning...
Final words of farewell? Well, of course I was sad the tour was ending, but I realized that this was also a most beautiful beginning. I look forward to following all the members of the graduating class of 1891 into their future endeavors. And in addition to all the beautiful, brilliant, and amazingly talented colleagues in the cast and band, I am glad to have made friends with many in the "extended family" of SA fans and supporters and look forward to seeing their smiling faces at (and in some cases I am sure, IN) other shows in the future! And above all, I want to express my deepest gratitude to EVERYONE involved with making this all possible.
What's next for me? I co-wrote a rock musical, Lizzie Borden (lizziebordentheshow.com), that was up last Fall here in NYC. It was tremendous fun and it's very gratifying that it was so well-received by audiences and critics alike (nominated for 3 Drama Desk awards this year) and the producers are exploring options for its remounting. I think fans of Spring Awakening, American Idiot, Hedwig, Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson, Tommy, and Rocky Horror would like it, and I hope we get to put it up again and I get to see some of my new SA friends again!!
Other parting words? Be kind to yourselves and to others and, to quote Harry Tuttle from one of my all-time favorite movies Brazil, "We're all in it together."
xo,
Alan
Christy Altomare
My favorite moment on tour has been the moment right before I start Mama every time- ..I am in character, but I can't help noticing all the people in the audience-and it always sort of hit me for a second- the people I knew we were going to effect. This show is a masterpiece. I have never been more proud to be a part of such an incredible work of art. I don't think I can really say what my favorite city is because I have loved so many for different reasons. They all sort of live and breath like different people do. It would be like comparing apples to oranges at this point. I guess I'd just like to end by saying- Thank you Thank you Thank you! For the best two years of my life. Thank you for following me on twitter and sending me comments- I still haven't really figured out how to write back-but I read them all and maybe someday someone will show me- thank you for watching my totally trucked videos and all the nice comments- I had the best time editing them together!!- Thank you so much Pun- for this great site that people who love the show can come and watch our life on tour. Thank you to the Guilty One street team -who spent countless hours promoting our little show that no one in most city's knew what the hell it was- Thank you for coming to see the show over and over and meeting us at the stage door to tell us how much you were touched- You Guilty Ones really helped keep this show alive and ill never forget it - Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. Together we brought a show to this country (and Toronto) - that was so much more than your average musical. To my cast I would like to say. We did it! I will love and miss all the adventures but I have no doubt our paths will cross again!
Love always,
Christy Altomare
Jake Epstein
I'll never forget our closing show in Orlando. It was a truly great moment in my life- being up there on stage with people I love and respect, doing a play that had so much to say and meant so much to so many people, and realizing what an incredible year it's been.
My favourite city- though there were some great ones- was Washington DC. It was my first city officially taking over the role of Melchior, and we had a 4 week run at the Kennedy Center.
What a mindblowing year. I can't even put into words what this year has been. My fingers can't possibly do it justice: It was a dream-come-true, it was hard, it was fun, it was gruelling, it was lonely, it was like camp, it was like theatre school, it was so meaningful, I laughed 'till I cried a lot, I sang more than I've ever sung, I had a blast....it was amazing. Thanks to everyone for coming to the shows and saying hi after! You guys made this show so special.
Steffi D
Dear Guilty Ones,
There are no words to describe how this show has changed my life. I cannot believe that I have gotten the privilege to be a part of telling such a unique, beautiful story. It has been the greatest gift to perform this show every night and portray such a beautiful character. I have fallen in love with Ilse and she will forever be a part of me.
Every single moment on this tour has been amazing... Although, Toronto, Boston and Miami have been my favourite!
Thank you all so much for your support, your gifts and your kind words at the stage door and for making me feel like a rock star. I feel like the luckiest person alive! What would the show be without you?? I’ve had the time of my life and this music has healed me. This has been my biggest dream come true. Here we are, two years later and I’m still so in love with Spring Awakening. This experience will always be in my heart and I will never let it go. Thank you for letting a Canadian bobbed brunette travel to 44 beautiful cities in your country! “Something started crazy... Sweet and unknown.”I hope to see you on stage soon...It’s been awful sweet to be a little butterfly.
Lots of Love and Blue Wind forever,
Steffi D.
Kristen Rosenfeld
Favorite moment: rehearsing on the stage of the Eugene O'Neill. Our first performance when the audience would not stop applauding until the actors took a 4th curtain call. My first time conducting the show. Too many others to list. Favorite city: San Francisco.
I'm so grateful for the opportunity to have been involved with this amazing piece, and with this amazing group of people. Thanks to all the fans and Guilty Ones for all of your support around the country.
Kayla Danielle Foster
A time i will always remember is when i finally got to learn Wendla with Justin as Melchior. it was so amazing to get to grow into the role with someone who was as new to it as i was. Plus, Justin is clearly insanely talented so i felt really lucky to be working with him and i will never forget everything i learned during the process :)
my favorite city was denver! it was the perfect place to be in the winter :) i loved the snow!
Thanks to everyone who worked on spring awakening and all of the fans for making my experience with the show so memorable. i will miss it so much! xo
Taylor Trensch
1. I will never forget walking through the upstage left curtains and seeing an audience for the very first time. It was 8PM on August 14th in Chicago, IL at the Ford Center for the Performing Arts. Ben was a few steps behind me (trembling almost as much as I was), John was settling in his seat across the stage, and Kayla was peeking in her cardigan so as to make sure she brought her microphone with her. After years of auditioning and weeks of rehearsals, the Spring Awakening
opening that I dreamed about had finally arrived.
2. Denver, CO was the bomb dot com. It was a beautiful winter
wonderland. Our show won the Ovation Award for "Best Production." We
had an extremely fun and extremely festive holiday party. One of my
very best friends came to surprise me. And most importantly, there was
a Cheesecake Factory close at hand.
3. Thank you times infinity to all of the extraordinarily kind/way
cool people who came to see Spring Awakening and said hello at the
stage door!
Freddy Hall
I'll never forget sky diving outside of LA.
I'll have to say, aside from all the California cities we played, my favorite has to be the recent stop in Miami!!!!
I would love to thank everyone for their support and amazing encouragement. My new motto is: stay hungry, stay foolish. Life is great if you allow it to be.
Pinky Weitzman
A tour moment that shall live in infamy: as we shambled home from a Scottish-themed faux-Hooters bar (eek) in Denver, Mark Verdino (former bass player, during his last week with us) decided -- despite the fact that it was approximately 8 degrees fahrenheit out -- to drop trou and lingeringly moon both the band and a handful of other (politely amused) Denver citizens. (Photo evidence available for a nominal fee.)
I'm going to miss my SA family - band, cast, and crew - so come to Brooklyn and I'll cook you dinner. Thanks to each of you for making this such a strange and wonderful ride. Love you all!
5/27/10
A Fan Looks Back At It All
Tomorrow will be our last blog post. Totally Trucked has been the production's way of reaching out to our dedicated fan base, whom we love so dearly. Our little show would never have gotten this far if our fans hadn't decided to adopt it as a show that belonged to them. We were particularly moved by this blog post of one fan, Michelle F., who randomly heard about us on Broadway through a free iTunes download and a mention on Zach Braff's blog. What ensued was a three year old love affair that has had her traipsing to see the show multiple times in New York and around the country--in Pittsburgh, Cleveland, DC, Hershey, and Detroit. Whether you've seen the show once or 100 times, we think every fan will be able to relate to Michele's thoughtful post about what this journey has meant to her, and we wanted to share an excerpt with you:
From: SUPER AWESOME BROADWAY NINJA'S BLOG BY MICHELLE F.
...Many things have changed over my three-year journey with Spring Awakening. Convincing my parents that yet another roadtrip is necessary has become easier, for one thing. I now have two years of college under my belt. I am a more confident person than the seventeen-year-old who watched every cast interview and performance at least eight times. I have met my best friends because of my interest in the show and Broadway in general. But most of all, my journey with Spring Awakening has shown me the impact that art can have on a young person's life. .. I feel that I have gone on as much of a trip with the tour as its fantastic cast members have. Seeing the show over and over again may border on the obsessive, but there's something thrilling and yet comforting about the familiarity of it all. Live theater is never the same, and I remember each and every performance of the show that I've attended - the mishaps, the particularly moving portrayals of various characters that have evolved beautifully over time, and "catching up" with the cast members who recognize us....
As I sat in my seat on Saturday and the a capella section of "Purple Summer" arrived, I thought about everything I've gained from this show, and about everything I'm going to miss - looking over the list of tour cities and figuring out which ones are within driving distance, road-tripping to places that are sometimes deserted and sketchy, the quest to sit in my favorite stage seat again, the feeling of the cast taking the stage and Wendla moving her hair from her shoulders to begin the show. The finality of the tour closing is imminent and weird, and I can't even imagine what emotions the cast is feeling as a huge chapter in their lives comes to a close. But I couldn't have asked for a more perfect final show, and I feel good about the way my journey with it has turned out. As the final chord sounded, I felt a chapter of my own life come to an end. Spring Awakening came along at the perfect time for me, and I will always look back at these years in my life with fondness and nostalgia.
Please read the rest of the post here
Thank you, Michele--and EVERYONE--for your devotion through these years. We can't tell you how much it you meant to us. This may be the end of the road for us, but Spring Awakening continues to live on through international productions and the tour which kicks off next year with a completely new cast! Not gone, not gone...
From: SUPER AWESOME BROADWAY NINJA'S BLOG BY MICHELLE F.
...Many things have changed over my three-year journey with Spring Awakening. Convincing my parents that yet another roadtrip is necessary has become easier, for one thing. I now have two years of college under my belt. I am a more confident person than the seventeen-year-old who watched every cast interview and performance at least eight times. I have met my best friends because of my interest in the show and Broadway in general. But most of all, my journey with Spring Awakening has shown me the impact that art can have on a young person's life. .. I feel that I have gone on as much of a trip with the tour as its fantastic cast members have. Seeing the show over and over again may border on the obsessive, but there's something thrilling and yet comforting about the familiarity of it all. Live theater is never the same, and I remember each and every performance of the show that I've attended - the mishaps, the particularly moving portrayals of various characters that have evolved beautifully over time, and "catching up" with the cast members who recognize us....
As I sat in my seat on Saturday and the a capella section of "Purple Summer" arrived, I thought about everything I've gained from this show, and about everything I'm going to miss - looking over the list of tour cities and figuring out which ones are within driving distance, road-tripping to places that are sometimes deserted and sketchy, the quest to sit in my favorite stage seat again, the feeling of the cast taking the stage and Wendla moving her hair from her shoulders to begin the show. The finality of the tour closing is imminent and weird, and I can't even imagine what emotions the cast is feeling as a huge chapter in their lives comes to a close. But I couldn't have asked for a more perfect final show, and I feel good about the way my journey with it has turned out. As the final chord sounded, I felt a chapter of my own life come to an end. Spring Awakening came along at the perfect time for me, and I will always look back at these years in my life with fondness and nostalgia.
Please read the rest of the post here
Thank you, Michele--and EVERYONE--for your devotion through these years. We can't tell you how much it you meant to us. This may be the end of the road for us, but Spring Awakening continues to live on through international productions and the tour which kicks off next year with a completely new cast! Not gone, not gone...
Lin Manuel Miranda Auditions for Spring Awakening
Last week, we showed you a video of Matt Shingledecker auditioning for the role of Usnavi in In The Heights. Well, as it turns out, Lin-Manuel Miranda, who wrote and originated the role (and who happens to be a fan of Spring Awakening), saw the video and responded to us with this comment: "Matt, Krystina, Jake--Thank you for making my day with that incredible video. When I go join the tour cast in LA, we'll have to return the favor with a Spring Awakening video. Keep an eye out."
Well, Lin is good on his word. Here he is auditioning for the role of Melchoir with singing sensation Miranda in this...um...moving rendition of "Word of Your Body." Miranda is a YouTube star who has moved people to tears...of laughter. You'll understand after you see the video. Enjoy!
Video Miranda/Miranda Audition...The Word of Your Body
Thanks Lin, for this awesome tribute to our touring cast in honor of their amazing two year run. We wish you all the best as you kick start the In The Heights tour!
Well, Lin is good on his word. Here he is auditioning for the role of Melchoir with singing sensation Miranda in this...um...moving rendition of "Word of Your Body." Miranda is a YouTube star who has moved people to tears...of laughter. You'll understand after you see the video. Enjoy!
Video Miranda/Miranda Audition...The Word of Your Body
Thanks Lin, for this awesome tribute to our touring cast in honor of their amazing two year run. We wish you all the best as you kick start the In The Heights tour!
5/25/10
FINAL Profile of the Month: Taylor Trensch
You voted our sad, soulful sleepy head for your final Profile of the Month. A few days before the end of the tour, Taylor Trensch sits down with official Guilty One interviewer Steffi D and answers many of your questions. Listen as he gives us the 411 on his dream role, breaking the rules at his SA audition, and gives advice for gay teens coming out of the closet. Also don't miss a show and tell of a special fan gift cherished by the entire cast (thanks Randy!). Enjoy both Part 1 and Part 2 segments!
Video Part 1
Video Part 2
Here are the Q's asked in the videos. Thanks to all for submitting your questions!
1) Reneé said: Hi Taylor! I saw you multiple times in Cincinnati and fell absolutely in love with you. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
2) Shannon and Chris asked: When did you decide acting was what you wanted to do? Who or what inspired you?
3) Mariah, Sarah, Joanna, Elaine, Rozzie, and Michael want to know: What is your dream role (even if it hasn’t been written yet)?
4) Nicole, Annabel, Elaine: You freakin’ rock that mike. Ever consider a music career? I’d buy your album.
5) Jordan from Kentucky and Anonymous:
Straight away, I wanna say that you are amazing, by far my favorite Moritz. I am also proud to hear that you are gay because you inspire me (a gay man) so much. Do you have any advice for other gay actors or gay teens in terms of coming out of the closet? Also, does it bother you to be considered a role model? Keep up the awesomeness!
6) Zac, Chris, Annabel asked: Can you describe your Spring Awakening audition experience?
a) What did you sing?
b) Did you know from the start that you wanted Moritz?
c) Had you seen the show before?
7) Many people asked: Where do you find your inspiration to play such an intense and tortured character like Moritz?
8) Scotty, Meranda, Sydney, Sarah and Rochelle asked:
a) Were you nervous at how fans would accept or not accept your portrayal of Moritz?
b) Have the other Moritz's influenced how you played the role or were you able to completely re-imagine it?
9) Many fans asked: What is the most memorable thing a fan has said, done or given you to show appreciation for the show?
10) Maria and Anonymous asks: Back when you were still updating your blog and Twitter, you showed a picture of your Moritz shoes and you said they were from Broadway. Who did they originally belong to, Gallagher? Did you all really wear the same size, or did you just have to make do?
11) Irene asked: What's the funniest/craziest thing that has happened to you while on tour?
12) From Rozzie: If you could go anywhere in the world for ONE day, with an unlimited budget, where would you go, and what would you do there?
13) Madelyn and Nicole said: Hi Taylor! You're so, so talented! You have a such a long, successful career ahead of you! What are three things you absolutely can't live without?
**The drawing above is the picture Taylor references in Part II, drawn by Sara Parten.
5/23/10
New TotallyTrucked Video: Kyle Wants A Parade
As we enter our last week of postings, we have a special blast from the past that we wanted to show you, of Kyle and Christy checking out Parade in Los Angeles. Shed a tear and twirl a baton as Kyle realizes that this Parade is not the float and candy kind, but rather, Jason Robert Brown's Tony-winning musical. Perhaps now that Kyle is back on Broadway in Hair, he should bone up on his musical theatre history?? Just a thought. Prepare for hilarity and classic Riabko hysterics.
Aldo, don't forget to return to Totally Trucked this Tuesday and Friday for Taylor's Profile of the Month and our last goodbye as we wind down Spring Awakening's First National Tour.
VIDEO
Aldo, don't forget to return to Totally Trucked this Tuesday and Friday for Taylor's Profile of the Month and our last goodbye as we wind down Spring Awakening's First National Tour.
VIDEO
5/21/10
Fan Friday: What Awards Would You Give The Cast?
Back in Detroit, we had a fan, Elyse, who made us plate awards, which we thought was really thoughtful. Here are the awards Elyse came up with:
-Christy Altomare- Most sincere smile
-Jake Epstein- the "omg, it's Craig!" award
-Taylor Trensch- Breakout singer
-Steffi D.- Brightest personality
-Matt Shingledecker- Most likely to be seen on Glee
-Anthony Lee Medina- Most energetic
-Ben Fankhauser- Kindest heart
-Robert Hager- Most mysterious
-Sarah Hunt- Soft spoken Diva
-Gabby Garza- Girl next door
-Kimiko Glenn- Small but mighty
-Kayla Foster- Sweetheart award
-Krystina Alabado- the "poca-hotness!" award
-Krista Pioppi- Best dressed
-Chase Davidson- Most likely to bring a smile to your face
-Lucas Wells- Cutest dimples
-Justin Scott Brown- Prettiest eyes
As the cast wraps up their tenure with Spring Awakening this Sunday, we thought it would be cool to ask what awards YOU would give them? Post your awards below. You can also add our Adult Men and Women! We'll compile your comments and send them all to the cast, so feel free to post short thoughts about what this cast and this show has meant for you.
We still have more goodies coming for our fans next week (including Taylor's POM)!
Spring Awakening Reviews in Orlando
We had some technical glitches including microphones going in and out on our opening night at the Bob Carr, but the audience totally went with it and ended up going wild like they were on some Disney theme park ride LOL (which some of us went to yesterday) Thanks to the fantastic audience members we've had so far in Orlando! Please tell all your friends they only have till this Sun to see us!
Here's what the press has said about us in Orlando:
ORLANDO SENTINEL
Spring Awakening, a rock musical about teen angst and alienation, is a bit like a teenager itself. Brimming with uncontrolled emotion, it wears its heart on its sleeve. It has an air of self-importance. And it doesn’t always seem entirely comfortable in its own skin.But, boy, does it have style. And, upon reflection, something to say about expression vs. repression, learning vs. ignorance.
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/entertainment_stage_theat/2010/05/review-spring-awakening.html
ORLANDO WEEKLY
This is the best touring company to visit Orlando in years...If a frank (but non-explicit and non-obscene) exploration of everyday issues like masturbation really offends you that much, why are you leaving your Fox News bubble for the theater in the first place? Get out and support this kind of progressive performance while you can, otherwise it'll be dreck like Shrek from here on out.
http://www.orlandoweekly.com/blog/culturetogo.asp?perm=2905
ELIZABETH MAUPIN ON THEATER BLOG
Every generation has one – that big Broadway musical that tells the story of who you are. For my generation, those of us who grew up in the 1960s, it was Hair (although even in high school I wished for a show that wasn’t quite so dopey). For those who came up in the ‘90s, that musical was Rent. And for those who are hitting their stride now, it’s Spring Awakening, a remarkable show that understands exactly what it is to be young and alienated and yearning for something more.
http://orlandotheater.wordpress.com/2010/05/19/theater-review-spring-awakening/
MAMMA MIA BLOG
Let me tell you, the hype was well deserved. As a parent, the show reminded me that what’s best for you and your life isn’t always the path for your children.
http://themammamiablog.com/
EXTREME CULTURE BLOG ON FLORIDATODAY.COM
Now I see why "Spring Awakening" won so many Tony Awards for its 2007 Broadway production, including Best Musical.. The show, which is touring at the Carr Performing Arts Centre courtesy of the Orlando Broadway Series, is about as fresh as they come.
http://extremeculture.flatoday.net/
INNER WORKINGS OF A COLLEGE GRADUATE BLOG
I fell in love immediately with the music as soon as the show opened with ‘Mama Who Bore Me.’ The music was fresh, very modern and easy to sing along to. I enjoyed the rock vibe in each song and really could not wait to get home and download the cd.
http://graduatemeghann.com/2010/05/19/spring-awakening/
CENTRAL FLORIDA TOP 5 BLOG
My first teaching assignment was Life Management Skills in Gainesville, Florida at Buchholz High School, where the life cycle was part of the curriculum. I had a student ask how the baby breathes in the womb and another student begged to give the answer. “Okay,” I said, “so how does the baby breathe in the womb?”
“My older sister just had her baby,” the girl announced proudly, “and my grandma told her not to cross her legs the whole nine months!”
What? Grandma! (So that’s at least three generations that had no idea the baby does not actually breathe in the womb!)
http://centralfloridatop5.wordpress.com/2010/05/21/spring-has-sprung-in-orlando/
PULSE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA BLOG
We were pretty much blown away...Nothing short of amazing.
http://pulseofcentralflorida.com/2010/05/21/broadway-across-americas-spring-awakening/
short TV interview with Christy and Jake on Central Florida News 13, Christy talks about how her boyfriend deals http://www.cfnews13.com/MediaPlayer/MediaPlayer.aspx?video=ONTHETOWN_103120090647&cat=Entertainment
Kind of hilarious TV Interview with Robi Hager and Ben Fankhauser on My Fox Orlando 35
Here's what the press has said about us in Orlando:
ORLANDO SENTINEL
Spring Awakening, a rock musical about teen angst and alienation, is a bit like a teenager itself. Brimming with uncontrolled emotion, it wears its heart on its sleeve. It has an air of self-importance. And it doesn’t always seem entirely comfortable in its own skin.But, boy, does it have style. And, upon reflection, something to say about expression vs. repression, learning vs. ignorance.
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/entertainment_stage_theat/2010/05/review-spring-awakening.html
ORLANDO WEEKLY
This is the best touring company to visit Orlando in years...If a frank (but non-explicit and non-obscene) exploration of everyday issues like masturbation really offends you that much, why are you leaving your Fox News bubble for the theater in the first place? Get out and support this kind of progressive performance while you can, otherwise it'll be dreck like Shrek from here on out.
http://www.orlandoweekly.com/blog/culturetogo.asp?perm=2905
ELIZABETH MAUPIN ON THEATER BLOG
Every generation has one – that big Broadway musical that tells the story of who you are. For my generation, those of us who grew up in the 1960s, it was Hair (although even in high school I wished for a show that wasn’t quite so dopey). For those who came up in the ‘90s, that musical was Rent. And for those who are hitting their stride now, it’s Spring Awakening, a remarkable show that understands exactly what it is to be young and alienated and yearning for something more.
http://orlandotheater.wordpress.com/2010/05/19/theater-review-spring-awakening/
MAMMA MIA BLOG
Let me tell you, the hype was well deserved. As a parent, the show reminded me that what’s best for you and your life isn’t always the path for your children.
http://themammamiablog.com/
EXTREME CULTURE BLOG ON FLORIDATODAY.COM
Now I see why "Spring Awakening" won so many Tony Awards for its 2007 Broadway production, including Best Musical.. The show, which is touring at the Carr Performing Arts Centre courtesy of the Orlando Broadway Series, is about as fresh as they come.
http://extremeculture.flatoday.net/
INNER WORKINGS OF A COLLEGE GRADUATE BLOG
I fell in love immediately with the music as soon as the show opened with ‘Mama Who Bore Me.’ The music was fresh, very modern and easy to sing along to. I enjoyed the rock vibe in each song and really could not wait to get home and download the cd.
http://graduatemeghann.com/2010/05/19/spring-awakening/
CENTRAL FLORIDA TOP 5 BLOG
My first teaching assignment was Life Management Skills in Gainesville, Florida at Buchholz High School, where the life cycle was part of the curriculum. I had a student ask how the baby breathes in the womb and another student begged to give the answer. “Okay,” I said, “so how does the baby breathe in the womb?”
“My older sister just had her baby,” the girl announced proudly, “and my grandma told her not to cross her legs the whole nine months!”
What? Grandma! (So that’s at least three generations that had no idea the baby does not actually breathe in the womb!)
http://centralfloridatop5.wordpress.com/2010/05/21/spring-has-sprung-in-orlando/
PULSE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA BLOG
We were pretty much blown away...Nothing short of amazing.
http://pulseofcentralflorida.com/2010/05/21/broadway-across-americas-spring-awakening/
short TV interview with Christy and Jake on Central Florida News 13, Christy talks about how her boyfriend deals http://www.cfnews13.com/MediaPlayer/MediaPlayer.aspx?video=ONTHETOWN_103120090647&cat=Entertainment
Kind of hilarious TV Interview with Robi Hager and Ben Fankhauser on My Fox Orlando 35
5/18/10
Spring Awakening: LAST STOP, Orlando!
610 Performances.
44 cities.
Number of people affected by Spring Awakening: countless.
After 8 more performances in Orlando this week, the lights will come down on this leg of the tour. Reality began to sink in last week when Michael Mayer and Tom Hulce flew in to say a final thank you and fond farewell. Since then, everyone is trying not to get emotional and trying to stay in the moment. @SteffiD3: That was my last Spring Awakening travel day... And this is my last hotel room. :-(
Still, spirits are high, as we just learned that Justin Scott Brown got the role of Marius in the upcoming tour of Les Mis! Congrats Justin!
TICKETS Don't miss your chance to see this amazing cast one more time! We will be at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Center in Orlando, FL May 18-May 23rd, 2010. Tickets start at just $25 here.
STAGE DOOR: Come say hi after the show! Stage door is on the East side of the building adjacent to parking lot.
EVENTS:
1) LIVE CONCERT AT MACY'S THURSDAY MAY 20TH 5:30 PM
Macy’s at the Florida Mall is presenting shoppers the opportunity to watch a free performance by Spring Awakening cast members Steffi D and Taylor Trensch. The duo will be performing “Don’t Do Sadness/ Blue Wind” at 5:30 p.m. Thursday May 20th in the first-floor Juniors Department.
Customers also will have the opportunity to receive two tickets to the May 21st performance with a $75 purchase in the Young Men’s or Juniors departments at Macy’s.
2) MEET THE CAST AT BARNES & NOBLE THURSDAY MAY 20TH 5 PM
Join us for a chat back--ask questions, take pictures and get autographs. The free event takes place at the Barnes & Noble Booksellers at 2418 E. Colonial Drive in Orlando. The session is jointly sponsored by Florida Theatrical and Barnes & Noble. Call 407-894-6024 for information.
PRESS
THE LEDGER Interview with Steffi D
WATERMARK Interview with Robi Hager
ORLANDO SENTINEL preview article
DVD ALERT!
Wed May 19th, 2010
afternoon news
In-Studio TV Interview with Christy Altomare and Jake Epstein – CFN13 (Local Cable News)
This interview with Allyson Walker will air as part of the afternoon news and will be posted online.
evening news
In-Studio TV Interview with Christy Altomare and Jake Epstein– WKMG (CBS)
This interview with Bob Kotek will air on the evening and Saturday morning news.
Thursday May 20th, 2010
6-9 am (tentative. May run another day).
Taped In-Studio TV Performance/Interview – The Daily Buzz WFTV ABC Channel 9
Steffi D and Taylor Trensch performs Blue Wind/Don't Do Sadness followed by an interview with reporter James Alexander.
9:45 am LIVE interview with Robi Hager and Ben Fankhauser WOFL (FOX)
REVIEWS:
Check back to this blog post for reviews and more in town press soon.
In the meantime, some pictures just added to our Flickr group from our awesome week in Miami: http://www.flickr.com/groups/springawakeninggallery/
GoLiveMiami.com contest winner Rebecca Ciufo at Opening Night Party in Miami with Jake Epstein and Christy Altomare
44 cities.
Number of people affected by Spring Awakening: countless.
After 8 more performances in Orlando this week, the lights will come down on this leg of the tour. Reality began to sink in last week when Michael Mayer and Tom Hulce flew in to say a final thank you and fond farewell. Since then, everyone is trying not to get emotional and trying to stay in the moment. @SteffiD3: That was my last Spring Awakening travel day... And this is my last hotel room. :-(
Still, spirits are high, as we just learned that Justin Scott Brown got the role of Marius in the upcoming tour of Les Mis! Congrats Justin!
TICKETS Don't miss your chance to see this amazing cast one more time! We will be at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Center in Orlando, FL May 18-May 23rd, 2010. Tickets start at just $25 here.
STAGE DOOR: Come say hi after the show! Stage door is on the East side of the building adjacent to parking lot.
EVENTS:
1) LIVE CONCERT AT MACY'S THURSDAY MAY 20TH 5:30 PM
Macy’s at the Florida Mall is presenting shoppers the opportunity to watch a free performance by Spring Awakening cast members Steffi D and Taylor Trensch. The duo will be performing “Don’t Do Sadness/ Blue Wind” at 5:30 p.m. Thursday May 20th in the first-floor Juniors Department.
Customers also will have the opportunity to receive two tickets to the May 21st performance with a $75 purchase in the Young Men’s or Juniors departments at Macy’s.
2) MEET THE CAST AT BARNES & NOBLE THURSDAY MAY 20TH 5 PM
Join us for a chat back--ask questions, take pictures and get autographs. The free event takes place at the Barnes & Noble Booksellers at 2418 E. Colonial Drive in Orlando. The session is jointly sponsored by Florida Theatrical and Barnes & Noble. Call 407-894-6024 for information.
PRESS
THE LEDGER Interview with Steffi D
WATERMARK Interview with Robi Hager
ORLANDO SENTINEL preview article
DVD ALERT!
Wed May 19th, 2010
afternoon news
In-Studio TV Interview with Christy Altomare and Jake Epstein – CFN13 (Local Cable News)
This interview with Allyson Walker will air as part of the afternoon news and will be posted online.
evening news
In-Studio TV Interview with Christy Altomare and Jake Epstein– WKMG (CBS)
This interview with Bob Kotek will air on the evening and Saturday morning news.
Thursday May 20th, 2010
6-9 am (tentative. May run another day).
Taped In-Studio TV Performance/Interview – The Daily Buzz WFTV ABC Channel 9
Steffi D and Taylor Trensch performs Blue Wind/Don't Do Sadness followed by an interview with reporter James Alexander.
9:45 am LIVE interview with Robi Hager and Ben Fankhauser WOFL (FOX)
REVIEWS:
Check back to this blog post for reviews and more in town press soon.
In the meantime, some pictures just added to our Flickr group from our awesome week in Miami: http://www.flickr.com/groups/springawakeninggallery/
GoLiveMiami.com contest winner Rebecca Ciufo at Opening Night Party in Miami with Jake Epstein and Christy Altomare
