Image: Arron Johnson
With the surge in Sydney housing prices and the questioning of traditional social structures that have long sought to define us, RENT is much more than just a production. This bold, brave and unapologetic musical provides social commentary that resonates with audiences on an international scale.
RENT follows a group of young performance actors living in the gritty bohemian world of New York City during the late 1980s. The characters battle with a number of issues including HIV/AIDS, drug addiction, unemployment, homelessness and social class prejudice.
“RENT is very raw. It relies on music, storytelling and characters. The set is also very bare and minimalistic” said Arron Johnson who plays Angel, a HIV-positive transgendered person in the show.
The original Broadway production by the late Jonathan Larson is based on Puccini’s beloved opera La Bohème, about the lives of improvised artists living in Paris during the 19th Century. The musical tackles many social, political and economic issues that are currently very topical in Australia, giving it an important political edge and voice.
“This is a production about acceptance, it shows that all love is equal”
“We can push audiences and make them question or celebrate who they really are”
RENT also challenged the way theatre was constructed allowing for the exploration of issues that are not usually depicted in the world of musical theatre.
“There is a realness to it. RENT is not pretty, it’s raw” Arron said.
May 31-Jun 4, Wed-Sat 8pm, Sat-Sun 2pm. Rockdale Town Hall cnr Princes Highway and Bryant Street, Rockdale. $34-$40+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.rockdalemusicalsociety.com
By Ellouise Bailey.
