Spring Awakening composer Duncan Sheik has died following his recent hospitalization. He was 56.
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the passing of Duncan Sheik. The world has lost a singular talent, and deeply influential voice in music and theater,” read a statement shared via Sheik’s Instagram account on Friday, September 18. “From his Grammy-nominated hit ‘Barely Breathing’ to his groundbreaking, Tony and Grammy Award-winning work on Spring Awakening, Duncan’s artistry touched many and leaves an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.”
The statement continued, “Duncan was a father, husband, son, brother and friend. He will be remembered for his sensitivity, wit, intelligence, and depth of spirit he brought to those who knew and loved him. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love from his fans, friends, collaborators, and the artistic community. His musical legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.”
Sheik died on Thursday, September 17, and was “surrounded by love,” the message noted.
His mother, Suzanne, subsequently confirmed to The New York Times that her son died in a hospital after going into organ failure.
Sheik’s family announced two days earlier that the musician had been admitted to a local hospital in critical condition.
“We would like to share an update with Duncan’s fans and the public. Duncan is currently receiving medical care and remains in critical but stable condition,” a social media statement read on Wednesday, September 16. “Out of respect for Duncan and our family, we will not be sharing any further medical details at this time.”
The statement concluded, “We kindly ask for privacy during this incredibly difficult time and will provide updates when appropriate. Thank you for the continued love and support.”
Sheik, who is survived by his mother, partner Nora Ariffin and their daughter, gained traction with his debut single, “Barely Breathing,” in the late ‘90s. He is perhaps best known for writing the 2006 Broadway hit Spring Awakening alongside Steven Sater. The Tony-winning coming-of-age musical starred Lea Michele, Jonathan Groff, John Gallagher Jr. and Skylar Astin.
Spring Awakening was revived in 2015 by Deaf West Theatre and is set to return to the stage for an upcoming off-Broadway run later this year directed by Tony winner Danya Taymor. The cast, which includes Amalia Yoo, Tyler Jordan Wesley and Ryo Kamibayashi, was announced days before Sheik’s death.
“Seaview is incredibly proud to bring this extraordinary work back to the stage at Studio Seaview and to have the opportunity to introduce New York audiences to a remarkable new generation of talent,” producer Greg Nobile told Deadline in a statement on Wednesday. “This is an exceptional group of actors who are fearless, deeply talented, and represent the future of our industry. We feel incredibly honored to give them the opportunity to bring their unique voices to this seminal work. They are the kind of artists who make you excited about where theater is headed next.”
