The play Spring Awakening follows teenagers in late 19th-century Germany struggling with their own curiosity, sexuality and culture. Although the play is set over 100 years ago, people of all ages empathize with the feelings and experiences of the characters.

Spring Awakening won eight Tony awards in 2007, and this weekend Purple Summer Productions and the Youth Task Force are bringing it to the Vineyard. Shows take place on July 31 and August 1, at Martha’s Vineyard Performing Arts Center. The production will raise funds to benefit the Island Wide Youth Collaborative, a new collaboration of Island organizations including the Youth Task Force, Martha’s Vineyard Community Services, the YMCA and the Martha’s Vineyard school system.

Due to the show’s mature — and at times explicit — content and language, parents are discouraged from bringing children under the age of 13 to the performance.

“This show is in many ways a cautionary tale for parents and adults,” said director Michele Ortlip. “Even though some of the subjects are uncomfortable, we need to talk about them with our children.”

Eric Johnson, classical and jazz guitarist, teacher, and member of the The Daytrippers is the music director, and the show’s choreographer is Tessa Permar. The show is being produced by Jane Dreeben.

Performances begin at 8 p.m. each evening. Tickets are $20 and are available for purchase now at TicketsMV.com, Alley’s General Store and at the door. All proceeds will benefit the Island Wide Youth Collaborative.