Contra Costa Times is featuring an interview with Jake Epstein:

Many teens know Jake Epstein for his earnest portrayal of bipolar musician Craig Manning on "Degrassi: The Next Generation," but the Toronto native, 22, has reached beyond his role on "Degrassi."

Since he left "Degrassi" in 2007, Epstein has starred in the film "Charlie Bartlett" and in the Toronto production of "Dog Sees God" with fellow "Degrassi" star Paula Brancati. Ever the thespian, Epstein plays the male lead Melchior in the national tour of "Spring Awakening," which stops in San Jose this week.

We caught up with him via phone as he was rehearsing and performing in Austin, Texas, and talked to him about teen sexuality, "Degrassi" and what lies ahead.

Q: Why did you choose to try out for "Spring Awakening"? More specifically, what is it about the play that particularly drew you to this role?

A: Well, I saw the show on Broadway in 2006 and just completely fell in love with it. I couldn't believe what I was seeing, like I was just on the edge of my seat the whole time. I had chills for half the play. I thought it was just the amalgamation of rock music and theater, and I just thought it was so cool. Two years later I (actually went to) an open call in Toronto, my home, 'cause I heard they were looking for replacements on Broadway. ...

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nyc-arts.org features Jake Epstein in an online article and lists his favorite spots to hit up in the city and must see ARTS:

Ever wonder if there's a teen idol in entertainment more interested in the arts than celebrity? American audiences have found a true craftsman and art devotee in Toronto native Jake Epstein, currently starring as Melchior Gabor on the first U.S. national tour of Spring Awakening.

Though he's now channeling the spirit of a rebel in turn-of-the-20th-century Germany, Epstein is best known for his role as Craig Manning in the award-winning teen drama series "Degrassi," set in a contemporary high school. Just as edgy as the musical Spring Awakening, the Canadian television series has taken root in the U.S. and is now airing on TeenNick.

Epstein has also appeared in the film Charlie Bartlett, starring alongside Robert Downey Jr., Hope Davis and Anton Yelchin.

A graduate of the National Theatre School of Canada in Montreal, Epstein seeks out Broadway musicals, theater and classical music concerts when in New York, but he also unwinds in art museums and other peaceful city oases. He shares some of his favorite New York City getaways with NYC ARTS.

Jake Epstein is a member of the committee for the Alliance for the Arts’ Friends of the Arts Party on Friday, November 13, 6:30-8:30 pm. Christie’s will host the party, opening the galleries for an exclusive preview of the much-heralded Latin American Art sale, cocktails and music—all in support of the Alliance’s arts advocacy work on behalf of nonprofit cultural groups in New York. To join Jake and attend the party, click here.

See Jake's list at the source.

Spring Awakening’s Jake Epstein talks about the musical
By Brian Jacobson for thirdcoastdigest.com

It’s a big night for Milwaukee, as the national tour of Spring Awakening hits the Uihlein stage at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts. The cast and crew got here this weekend, ahead of the first show tonight with a mostly new cast.

Former Degrassi: Next Generation star and current Spring Awakening headliner Jake Epstein has already toured Brady Street since arriving. And despite being from Canada – commonly known to have extremely polite and friendly people – Epstein was taken aback at how nice everyone was to him here.

“They were all like, ‘Hey, how are you? It’s good to see you,’” laughs Epstein. “They were just the friendliest people I’ve ever met.”

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Information released from the official Spring Awakening Twitter:
October 7th @ 11:30AM LIVE In Studio Radio Interview with JAKE EPSTEIN – WUWMon “Lake Effect” with host Stephanie Lecci.

Milwaukee luncheon with Jake, Kristy and Tom Hulce 10/9/09 @ noon Wilson Center $35 with a paid ticket. Call the Box Office 414-273-7206

Any fans in Milwaukee? Win tickets to Spring Awakening opening night in Milwaukee!

Our next Profile of the Month is Jake Epstein. Post your question on the Blog. Deadline is 10/23.

More information at the blog:
Next Profile of the Month: JAKE EPSTEIN
Due to popular demand, our next Profile of the Month is the ever-popular, ever-sweet bad boy, Jake Epstein. Leave your question for Jake as a comment to this post. Deadline is Friday, October 23rd. The profile will be out in November.

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