Jonathan Larson’s rock opera “RENT” defined a generation of theater fans. After 30 years and countless productions, Diversionary Theatre took a leap and put a new spin on this Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning musical. Their legacy revival puts the audience in the middle of the action for some of the show by shifting the scenery and setting within the Diversionary space. This interactivity may work for some, but it may not for others.
“RENT” follows a group of artists — filmmakers, performers, dancers — as they navigate New York City in the mid ’90s. They fight for their independence and integrity amongst corporate development, homelessness and HIV/AIDS. Mark Cohen (Jonathan Sangster) leads the show with his camera, always documenting the lives of his friends and community members. Roger (Gio Coppola) and Mimi (Maya Sofia Enciso) begin a new flame of a romance with a looming drug addiction in the wings, while Maureen (Michael Amira Temple) and Joanne (Nio Russell) work out their on-again, off-again differences throughout the story. Tom (Andre Heimos) and Angel (Allen Lucky Weaver) navigate the difficulties that life unfairly throws at us, and Benny (David McBean) goes back on his promises to his friends. Ensemble members Faith Carrion and Adelaida Martinez help bring the show to life by playing parents, community members, annoying bosses, and other interesting characters.
Co-directed by Sherri Eden Barber and Coleman Ray Clark, “RENT” has a larger-than-life presence that fills up two spaces at Diversionary. During intermission, the audience moves from the upstairs theater to the downstairs cabaret space to see Maureen’s “Over the Moon” protest performance and the ensemble number, “La Vie Boheme.” If you’d prefer to stay in your traditional theater seat, the beginning of Act II can be watched on screens from Mark’s camera at the scene. Whether the seating change works depends on personal preference and how you like to experience live theater.
Performance highlights include Russell as Joanne, whose voice and sharp quips stand out among the large cast, and Weaver as Angel, who holds nothing back and gives the performance their all.
Mathys Herbert’s set and Annelise Schultz-Salazar’s lighting design worked well in tandem to give atmosphere to the story, and Claire Peterson’s costumes were perfect for each character’s unique personality.
The choice to tell much of the story through Mark’s live film recording is creative, fun and fitting, but the lag between audio and visuals became a little disorienting throughout the three-hour show.
“RENT” is a bold and passionate musical. This team has given its all in producing this beloved story, from utilizing the building’s ground floor to the top of the spiral staircase on stage. If you’re looking for a new and different take on this show, look no further than Diversionary.
“RENT” plays until June 28th at Diversionary Theatre.
(Photo credit: Xing Photo Studio)
Leave a Reply