Theater Advisor

A Review of Rent (Off Broadway)

By Lauren K., August 10, 2011

  • Acting
    5 stars
  • Choreography
    5 stars
  • Dancing
    5 stars
  • Direction
    5 stars
  • Lyrics
    5 stars
  • Music
    5 stars
  • Overall
    5 stars
  • Production
    5 stars
  • Singing
    5 stars
  • Story
    5 stars
  • Writing
    5 stars

I saw Rent (Off Broadway) on 07/23/11. Overall, I'd say it was a 5-star rating. I'd summarize it by saying “each time I see Rent I fall in love all over again. ”

I had a n amazing time and left the show feeling invigorated and wanted to see it again. I'd describe the show as heart wrenching, touching, and realistic. Roger davis was a highlight of the show because his acting was amazing. If this were a movie, I'd rate it PG-13. I would recommend this show to anyone and everyone but not to children under ten.

I saw this show because I'm a hugh Rent fan. I would see it again. I sat in the left orchestra area of the theater. The view was amazing, up front and personal and the seats were comfortable.

“How do you document real life when real life’s getting more like fiction each day?” Well, you partake in the amazing, yet simplistically human, dramatic production of Rent, that’s how.

As an avid fan I’ve seen the traveling cast, including original cast members Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp, several times. This past July, I was ecstatic to see the latest production, Rent Off-Broadway at New World Stages in Manhattan and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Though some longtime Rent-heads had their criticisms of the performance, I was honestly blown away. I greatly appreciated the subtle changes that allowed for a personal and unique performance that remained true to the original show.

Once I was able to quell my legal minded nature - that instantly thought of insurance policies and worker’s compensation claims as the cast ran around the stage climbing and swinging from ladders – I thoroughly enjoyed the new set, which allowed for height and depth that made the show feel larger than life. It also allowed for chorography on many levels, in different sections of the stage, and through alternative media, which included a video camera and large screens in the background of the set).

Sitting in the second row I had an up-close and personal view of the actors as they were brought to tears several times during their performance. It was a very powerful experience, one translated to the audience through not only great vocals but through amazing acting. “Another Day” with Matt Shingledecker (Roger Davis) and Arianda Fernandez (Mimi Marquez) was riveting, filled with a mix of emotions; regret, desire, hope, fear, and uncertainty, which to me, epitomize the human struggle portrayed throughout the show.

The only thing I’m left longing for after seeing Rent Off-Broadway is to see it again.

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