Producers of rock musical Spring Awakening have announced the show will close at the Novello at the end of May.

The show had previously played to sell-out audiences at the Lyric Hammersmith earlier this year and received five star reviews in countless publications. The rock musical about the blooming sexuality of adolescents immediately transferred to Novello Theatre in London's West End and was widely expected to have the same success.

Spring Awakening continued to receive glowing reviews but has struggled to fill seats. A statement from the show's producers says: “Despite the most positive critical response to a theatrical production in recent years, the enthusiasm of the media, accessible ticket pricing and the incredible response audiences give the show each night, simply not enough tickets are being sold.

We are grateful to all of the people who have supported the show

“We are grateful to all of the people who have supported the show and to those who have worked so tirelessly and passionately throughout the run. We also salute all of those involved who have made efforts in the last few days in an attempt to avoid this unfortunate outcome. We simply urge everyone to see this wonderful musical, and its extraordinary cast, before it finishes.”

In the current issue of The Drama Student Magazine, Knight Hooson writes: “Spring really has erupted in the West End with the talent and energy of a young cast pouring their hearts out nightly onstage at the Novello.”

It’s a worry for all us when something so perfectly conceived and consummately performed closes so early.

Theatre Director and The Drama Student columnist Russell Labey said this morning: “It’s simply baffling why a production so sublimely original and so beautifully executed did not attract an audience. It’s a worry for all us when something so perfectly conceived and consummately performed closes so early. The world has gone mad. Catch it while you can”.

The Drama Student urges everyone to see this show before it closes on May 30th. We're currently running a special reader ticket offer on the back page of our current issue.

Pick up a copy free at French's Theatre Bookshop (52 Fitzroy Street, London. W1T 5JR) or Dress Circle (57-59 Monmouth Street, Covent Garden. WC2H 9DG) and take the magazine to the box office to purchase a best available ticket for just £20 (normally £49). Tickets valid Monday to Friday 7.30pm. You can also purchase a £10 ticket for Wednesday and Saturday matinee performances at 2.30pm with a copy of the magazine. Maximum two tickets per magazine.

By Phil Matthews

For more information on Spring Awakening, visit www.springawakening.com