Duncan Sheik, Tony-Winning Composer of 'Spring Awakening,' Hospitalized in Critical Condition

Duncan Sheik, the Tony-winning composer of 'Spring Awakening,' is hospitalized in critical but stable condition, his family announced Wednesday evening via Instagram. They did not disclose the cause of his hospitalization and requested privacy, stating they will share updates when appropriate. Sheik's medical situation coincides with two upcoming Off-Broadway productions: his new musical 'Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen' begins previews on September 25 at The Night Egg at the Culture Club, starring Sophia Anne Caruso; and a revival of 'Spring Awakening' is set to start previews in November at Studio Seaview, with an official opening on December 17. Danya Taymor directs the 2026 revival. Sheik is also known for his 1996 hit 'Barely Breathing,' which earned a Grammy nomination for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance. He later focused on theater, writing the music for 'Spring Awakening' with lyricist and co-creator Steven Sater, winning two Tony Awards for Best Original Score and Best Orchestrations. The original Broadway production ran for 859 performances from 2006 to 2009, and a 2015 revival was staged by Deaf West Theatre under director Michael Arden. The musical launched the careers of Lea Michele, Jonathan Groff, and John Gallagher Jr.