Rent

D&S Productions returned to the Brindley with their production of ‘Rent’, performed in the studio space and directed by Donna Dale. The static set was impressive in the small space and used well by the cast, providing different levels for the cast to use. What was really apparent in the production was how believable the relationships between each of the characters were. Donna must take credit for this for assembling a cast that immersed themselves into their character. Nothing seemed forced – it was all real. There were some imaginative ideas throughout, including having the ensemble on stage throughout and Angel’s death. The mugging of Collins appeared to be very pedestrian – it didn’t have the impact that it needed. The final scene between Roger and Mimi was beautifully played, but was hard to see due to it being played downstage on the floor. It was clear how much the company cared about each other and the care they took in the telling of this story, which was lovely to see.

The musical director was Craig Price, who led a small band (Ian Sherwood, Kev Bates, Ben Knowles and Jack Corlett) very well. The band had a great rock feel to them, but were also sympathetic to the piece, especially during the quieter moments of the production.

Donna Dale choreographed ‘Rent’, along with John Sprung-Murphy. There were some great choreographic moments during the production, including ‘La Vie Bohème’ and ‘Tango: Maureen’.

Lighting and sound were generally good throughout the production. There were moments where the stage was a little dark. Sound effects were used well throughout and cued on time. The sound balance between the band and cast was good. The band were loud, which is just what is needed for a rock opera like ‘Rent’. However, there were times where it impacted the cast, with the volume of the band being louder than the volume of the cast.

Jack Parry took on the role of Mark. Jack was great in this role. He has a great vocal and an excellent stage presence. As the narrator, Jack moved the story along nicely, and had an excellent rapport with all the other characters.

Roger was played by Elliott Tutt. Elliott’s vocals were great and the relationships between the other characters were believable, especially with Sara as Mimi. Elliott’s acting through song was very good.

Sara Haynes played Mimi. This was a great performance and you really felt for Mimi and what she was going through, which is a credit to Sara’s performance. ‘Light My Candle’ was excellently performed by both Sara and Elliott.

Francesca Forbes was excellent as Maureen. Francesca really embodied the character, and did a great job with her musical numbers. ‘Take Me or Leave Me’ was a particular highlight.

Jen Ellison played Joanne. Jen proved to be the perfect foil for Francesca, playing the fairly serious Joanne. Jen had an excellent relationship with Francesca, and provided good vocals too.

Tom Collins was played by Kriss James. Kriss’s vocals were outstanding throughout. The reprise of ‘I’ll Cover You’ was beautifully heartfelt. Kriss had an excellent relationship with Mark, which was very believable.

Mark Wilson took on the role of Angel. Mark did very well with this iconic part. He had some good vocals and brought out the emotion during Angel’s death. The energetic ‘Today 4 U’ was very well performed.

Antony Holden did well as Benny. He had a good, authoritative presence, which is exactly what is required for the role, which mellowed towards the end of the musical.

The ensemble was kept busy throughout. They were very much like a Greek Chorus, always on stage and watching the story unfold. Each member of the ensemble was engaged throughout, each having their time in the spotlight.

Overall, this was a great production. The vocals throughout were strong, the staging was great, and the performances from everyone were believable.

Thank you to D&S Productions for their warm welcome and kind hospitality. All the best for your next production.

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