RENT
Book, Music & Lyrics by: Jonathan Larson
Directed by: Keith J. Warren
Music Directed by: Kyle Feather
Produced by: Lewisville Playhouse, Lewisville, Texas
Audience Rating: R (not recommended for children or young teens)
Running Time: 150 minutes (15 minute intermission)
Accessible Seating: Available
Hearing Devices: Not Available
Sensory Friendly Showing: Not Available
ASL Showing: Not Available
Sound Level: Loud
Audio/Visuals to Prepare For: Mature themes throughout, including profanity, sexually suggestive references and situations, and references to drug addiction and HIV/AIDS
Reviewed by Stacey L. Simpson
The raw, energetic heart of Jonathan Larson’s rock musical is beating loud and strong in North Texas. If you are looking for an evening of theater that will move you, make you think, and leave you humming beloved tunes, check out the current production of Rent at the Lewisville Playhouse. Under the guidance of Director and Choreographer Keith J. Warren, this intimate staging reflects a clear love for the material by all involved and delivers a high-octane, emotional experience as this popular musical celebrates its 30th anniversary this year.
Director Warren and the production team made an interesting choice to start the show with a reel of news clips from the time discussing the HIV/AIDS epidemic. For younger audience members who didn’t live through this era (as well as for those who did), this was a reminder of how devastating, misunderstood, and emotionally charged this disease was during the 1980s/early 90s and beyond. This creative choice provided key context as a background to the story. Warren also designed the set, making full use of a relatively small stage. By weaving in distinct physical levels, tables that double as platforms, and dynamic moving set pieces, the action felt organic and fast-paced, echoing the chaotic energy of New York's East Village and the “bohemians” who live there, shivering in their unheated industrial lofts or getting into trouble on its gritty streets. Kudos to the production team for the richly textured, colorful look, feel, movement, and sound realized through the creative and technical talents of Choreographer, Costume & Scenic Designer Warren, Music Director Kyle Feather, Lighting Designer Cameron Stewart, Sound Designer Laz Jarrell, Props Designer Toni Thomas, Stage Manager Adryana Medina, and Intimacy Director Mandy Rausch.
Hearing a live band bring this iconic rock score to life is always a treat, and the four-piece band led by conductor and keyboardist Russ Ruggia fills the space energetically. They provide the perfect foundation for a talented and multi-faceted ensemble, ably directed by Feather. This ensemble operates as a powerful engine, driving the story, providing time-and-place context, and blending together beautifully during full-company anthems while letting individual personalities shine through in the crowded street and restaurant scenes, Christmas anti-caroling scenes, and the funny answering-machine scenes.
Trenton Mosty as the wry videographer/observer/narrator Mark and Christián Thrailkill as his reclusive and tortured musician roommate Roger are effective in their roles and give dramatic, committed performances. Andara Shahdae as the fragile yet life-toughened Mimi made us weep for her lost potential. The night I attended, the gifted Hailey Good stepped in as understudy in the role of the sharp-witted attorney Joanne Jefferson and did an excellent job. Katelyn Sarbach is a force of nature as Maureen, fully embodying the character's manic, magnetic sexual energy and keeping the audience captivated during her performance art piece. Joshua Rodriguez brings a wonderful, playful sweetness to Angel, radiating warmth and joy. The talented Julian Evan Rodriguez anchors the emotional gravity of the second act as Tom Collins, pairing heart-wrenching dramatic vulnerability with rich and deeply satisfying high baritone vocals that fill the space beautifully. Christian R. Black plays the purported “villain” of the story, erstwhile friend and current landlord Benny, with enough nuance to ensure that we get his point of view, too.
This production reminds us why this beautiful story about love, loss, finding one’s purpose, and forming a community of found family still endures three decades later. Do not let this run pass you by—local theater-goers should absolutely make plans to see this iconic show before it closes! Runs through June 28. Tickets: lewisvilleplayhouse.org
On with the show!
Stacey L. Simpson
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