RENT
“Rent” is a contemporary rock musical that follows the lives of a group of struggling artists and musicians living in New York City’s East Village during the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the late 1980s. The story revolves around Mark, an aspiring filmmaker, and his roommate Roger, a musician who is grappling with the loss of his girlfriend to AIDS. They navigate their tumultuous relationships and confront issues of love, loss, addiction, and acceptance while striving to pursue their artistic dreams despite the harsh realities of poverty and illness. Through its powerful music and poignant storytelling, “Rent” celebrates the strength of friendship, the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring power of love in the face of adversity.
Director: Seth Sponhouse
Music Director: Marisa Sorrentino Hickey
Choreography: Katie Conklin
CAST LIST:
Mark: Seth Confer
Roger: Timothy Hippensteel
Mimi: Rubie Natal
Collins: Camden Hare
Angel: Malachi Watson
Maureen: Brandy Aguirre
Joanne: Marisa Sponhouse
Benny: Max Theiss
Ensemble #1 (Maureen Understudy): Rachel Druckenmiller
Ensemble #2 (Roger Understudy): Dakkota Deem
Ensemble #3 (Collins Understudy): Phil Vonada
Ensemble #4: Megan Fisher
Ensemble #5: Tyler Marvin
Ensemble #6 (Benny Understudy): Kyle Huggins
Ensemble #7: Shantel Hill
Ensemble #8 (Joanne Understudy): Lesley Shuman
Ensemble #9 (Mark Understudy):Taylor Elliott
Ensemble #10: Kim Fulmer
Ensemble: Sydney Harris
Ensemble: Kyle Venarchick
Pit Singers:
Kevin Mowrey, Tim Heilmann, Isaiah Inch, Jade Phillips, Valerie Padgett, Jenn Shibata, Eliza Whyman
RENT contains mature themes and content that may not be suitable for all audiences. Here’s a brief summary of the subjects patrons should be aware of:
Adult Themes and Language: Strong language and mature relationship dynamics are present throughout.
On-Stage Nudity: The show contains moments of brief nudity.
Drug Use and Addiction: Characters openly struggle with addiction.
HIV/AIDS: Themes around living with and being impacted by HIV/AIDS are central to the storyline.
Death and Grief: The musical addresses mortality, grief, and loss with intense emotional scenes.
These elements contribute to RENT’s realistic and moving portrayal of its characters’ lives. Viewer discretion is advised, as the show is recommended for mature audiences.