Since 1996 audiences have been raving about the Broadway production of Rent, a story of what it was like to live on the East Side of New York during the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The production is not without its own tragedy; creator Jonathan Larson died of a ruptured aorta during the final dress rehearsals. Despite a sobering beginning, this production has played to packed houses ever since.

Rent features gay, lesbian and bisexual characters that make up a community of musicians and artists that live in abandoned industrial buildings alongside the homeless and less fortunate. When a former friend buys one of the buildings and demands back rent, the residents band together for a protest at Christmas. What follows is an account of the next year in the lives of the community.

When Rent first opened, it was shock value as much as talent that made the show a success. As society slowly accepted what used to offend it, Rent became recognized as an exuberant and energetic celebration of community, tolerance and non-traditional values. Indeed, most people come away from this exceptional musical with their spirits lifted despite the grim subject matter.

The first act is alive with energetic music and impressive choreography, setting the scene of underlying optimism for the rest of the show. It is in the second act that we see the terrible toll taken by HIV and AIDS, but also the inspiring triumph of the human spirit. The grim and sometimes shadowy set is the perfect backdrop for what should be despair but is a celebration of the resilience of the human spirit.

The music and dance of Rent has captivated audiences as much as the storyline. From “Seasons of Love” to “Over the Moon”, this show has lively numbers and some of the best voices on Broadway. Now that the production is touring, you can enjoy this fabulous musical by going to Yaytickets.com and choosing a venue near you.

Rent Musical Tickets
Nederlander Theatre New York, NYC
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