Darien Native Music Directs Porchlight's Spring Awakening in Chicago

This spring, Justin Kono, is the Music Director for Porchlight Music Theatre’s rendition of the musical that claimed eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Spring Awakening, directed and choreographed by Brenda Didier, at The Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N Dearborn St., April 23-May 29.

Porchlight’s production will thrill you with a story over 130 years in the making! Set against the backdrop of a repressive and provincial late 19th-century Germany, and based on Frank Wedekind’s 1891 play that was immediately banned due to its subject matter, Spring Awakening tells the timeless story of youthful self-discovery and budding sexuality as seen through the eyes of three teenagers. Haunting and provocative, this landmark American musical celebrates a journey from adolescence to adulthood with a power, a poignancy and a passion you will never forget.

Kono is a resident of Woodridge who grew up in Darien, Illinois. He attended Downers Grove South High School and later graduated from DePaul University School of Music. His working credits include Sophisticated Ladies with Porchlight Music Theatre and Kiss Me Kate with The Marriott Theater.

The regular performance schedule is Thursdays at 7 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 3 and 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. with Thursday matinees May 5 at 10:30 a.m. and May 12 at 1:30 p.m. There are no Thursday evening performances May 5, 12 or 19. Content warning: Spring Awakening contains verbal, physical and sexual assault, teen pregnancy, abortion, strong language, simulated masturbation, death and implied suicide. Viewer discretion is advised.

Tickets for Spring Awakening are now on sale starting at $25 and may be purchased through the Box Office by calling 773.777.9884 or by visiting PorchlightMusicTheatre.org.