It's been 20 x 525,600 minutes (ahem, that's 20 years) since RENT first graced the stages with its story following an unforgettable year in the lives of seven artists struggling to follow their dreams without selling out. My husband and I have seen the show a handful of times, including on Broadway. When we saw it was coming to National Theatre in DC, we were excited to not only see one of our favorite musicals but also to see if it's just as good as we remembered it being, with a new touring cast and off-Broadway.
Spoiler alert. It was amazing.
The show, while not considered family-friendly, is one that has passed the test of time. The major themes of Rent, including AIDS, HIV, heroin addiction, cross-dressing, death, poverty, and homelessness, were strong in the 90's when the show debuted, but prove to be just as relevant in 2019; maybe more so. But for all of the tough and mature thematic elements, comes an even more powerful element that seems to overshine the rest: love.
The music, cast, storyline, theater... all of it was done incredibly well and compares nicely to the original Broadway show. The actors nailed their parts, were on-key with the musical performances, and spoke to the audience like we were all right on stage with them.
Tickets are available through November 17th. It's a not-to-be-missed show!
RENT - 20th Anniversary Tour
Tuesday, Nov. 12 - Sunday, Nov. 17
National Theatre
In 1996, an original rock musical by a little-known composer opened on Broadway… and forever changed the landscape of American theatre. Two decades later, Jonathan Larson’s RENT continues to speak loudly and defiantly to audiences across generations and all over the world. Now, this Pulitzer and Tony Award-winning masterpiece returns to the stage in a vibrant 20th anniversary touring production. A reimagining of Puccini’s La Bohème, RENT follows an unforgettable year in the lives of seven artists struggling to follow their dreams without selling out.
Disclosure: "Rent" contains partial nudity, sexual innuendos, mature themes, and strong language.
