Simultaneously funny and thoughtful, irreverent yet dark, Spring Awakening is a musical that will stay with you long after you've seen it.

Produced by the Sell A Door Theatre Company, Exeter was the first stop on the UK tour. A story of repression and its repercussions on a group of teenagers in late-nineteenth century Germany, it made me laugh, cry, and want to dance... the best part is the wonderfully anachronistic rock soundtrack which complements the austere atmosphere perfectly. Imagine German school kids in old-fashioned shirts and plus fours, air-guitaring as they sing a song called 'The B*tch of Living' and you will get an idea of how awesome this musical is.

The cast were absolutely fantastic, fearless in their portrayal of taboo subjects of the time, and full of energy and an electric dynamic together. Billy Cullum, who played frenetic character Moritz Stiefel, was particularly good. A live band provided the soundtrack; it was nice to see them given a place on the stage. 

If you get the chance to see Spring Awakening, do it. It's proof that musicals don't have to be synonymous with The Sound of Music.