Gerard Canonico, a member of the original ensemble of Spring Awakening, will assume the role of Moritz in the Broadway production beginning August 4. He replaces Blake Bashoff, who played his final performance on August 2 before joining Kyle Riabko for the show's national tour. As previously announced, Weeds star Hunter Parrish will be taking over the role of Melchior on August 18. Prior to that date, Matt Doyle and Jesse Swenson will alternate in the role.
In addition to Spring Awakening, Canonico's Broadway credits include Les Miserables and A Christmas Carol and he has appeared off-Broadway in The Prince and the Pauper and Children's Letters to God. Regional productions have included The King and I and Casper the Musical with Chita Rivera.
In a statement, the Spring Awakening producers said, "We have been very proud to have Gerard in our ensemble, and now are thrilled he is our newest Moritz. We also wish to thank Blake Bashoff for his superb work in the Broadway company, and look forward to his terrific Moritz being seen by audiences across the country."
Spring Awakening, which features music by Duncan Sheik and book and lyrics by Steven Sater, won eight 2007 Tony Awards including Best Musical, is continuing its Broadway run at the Eugene O'Neill Theatre.
