Rent: the Musical

Imagine standing in the middle of a song and dance-filled East Village late at night. The scent of smoke, from the burning papers in the trash, fills your nostrils. See the lights from the stores below and the homes above. Sitting in the middle of the row, towards the rear, I still could feel the passion and excitement of “Rent”.

This is a story of a band of friends, many who are struggling to fight AIDS, living in the East Village during the Bohemian days. The diverse group of artists, musicians and performers not only pass each day struggle against AIDS but they also face relationship problems between friends and lovers. Mark the aspiring filmmaker documents the lives and journeys of his friends: Roger, the musician, Tom, mostly known as Collins, the gay teacher, Angel, the gay drag queen, Joanne, the lesbian Ivy League lawyer, Maureen, the lesbian performance artist, Mimi, the heroin junkie exotic dancer and Benny, the landlord who is no longer part of the gang. Through many selections of songs the stories of their lives are put on display.

The greatest enjoyment of this show is the songs. The dynamic, moving lyrics continue to linger in the ears even days after the show. “I should tell you, I should tell you,” repeated through the play, is even now a phrase replayed in the head. Perhaps the most noted number of the night is “Seasons of Love”, where the cast members all together sing after intermission. Chills went up and down the spine, as their voices soared throughout the theater and even down to the next street. Every actor had his or her own unique voice. Even when I closed my eyes, I can depict the face belonging to the very talented voice.

It was not only the music that had won the hearts of the audience but it was also the story and the meaning behind it all. There is some level of connection between the characters and the audience. The characters are searching for their identity, following their dreams and allowing themselves to fall in love. These are goals we as people are searching for. The death of a loved one, an emotional theme, is touched upon in two instances. We find Roger turning away from falling in love with Mimi after the death of his girlfriend. The second instance is the death of a familiar face, Angel. This is perhaps the most emotional moment of the night. You could hear the sniffles and wiping of the noses. Although we’ve only known Angel for perhaps and hour or more, we cannot deny the sadness we feel; as if we lost a friend. But that is what “Rent” does to you.

“Rent” throws controversy and sorrow in your face. It builds a bridge connecting the audience with each character, forming a certain bond. It forces us to think beyond the conservative views of this world and question the purpose of our lives. “I should tell you, I should tell you,” that “Rent” is one musical worth watching.