RENT

This production was powerful, poignant and atmospheric.  The production team, cast and crew should be proud of the stunning piece of theatre they created.  

With the story highlighting very important topics and themes, Director David created a superb production where the talented cast could perform with the energy, emotion and passion needed to portray each character’s story, whether principal or ensemble.  And his creativity along with that of Musical Director Matt and Choreographer Ruth brought together a striking show.

With a production like this, it feels fitting to focus on some of the key production highlights first as the creativity really boosted the overall success of the show.  The singing was exceptional, both from the eight central characters and smaller ensemble, which ensured that the audience were blown away by the powerful vocals throughout. The band were excellent and having them on stage was also aided the musical success of the show. The choreography was very clever and used effectively throughout, with the movement inserted into the numbers in simple and subtle ways. Examples of this that I loved were in “Tango Maureen” and “Out Tonight” where atmospheric darker lighting and haze covered the ensemble and spotlighting was used to emphasize and follow the lead characters. The set was simple and used successfully to transition through the settings of the show, from the simple chair-ography in “Out Tonight”, and clever use of tables on wheels in “La Vie Boheme”, to the fixed platform with steps and ladders to play with the heights on the stage, the full piece flowed flawlessly. The lighting also should be commended, with the use of colour and darker tones reflecting the atmosphere of the show. Finally, the addition and use of screens to the front of the stage which highlighted the passing of time and also showed the live video feed from the character Mark’s video camera was genius and let the audience immerse further into the story. It was also a lovely touch showcasing highlights of this at the end for the viewing party of Mark’s film.

At the front of all the hard work mentioned so far to create this brilliant show is of course the cast and the casting of the central principals featured ensemble characters was wonderful. Stephen McIlwraith’s Rodger was outstanding. He showed the character’s vulnerability as well as his stronger personality with flawless and powerful vocals which made it feel like the songs had been written specifically for him. John McGill used his consistently strong acting and vocals to bring the story of narrator Mark Cohen to life, balancing raw emotion with the lighter comedy moments. His interactions with the other characters was excellent and I especially enjoyed the contrast of his softer vocals with Stephens rockier tones in their duets. John should also be commended for effectively co-ordinating the live video feed from the stage capturing the images while focusing on his own performance. It cleverly enhanced the realness of the characters love for film making. Kate McKenzie as Mimi Marquez gave an incredible performance. She allowed the audience to see contrasting aspects to her character during an honest portrayal of Mimi’s struggle with addiction. She moved from high to low energy well, commanding the bolder choreography over the platform, ladder and chairs in “Out Tonight” to capturing an authentic softer relationship with Roger and love for Angel. Sophie Lamont gave a solid and confident performance as Maureen Johnston and her connection with the audience was fabulous. Especially when she had the auditorium mooing with her in “Over The Moon”. That number was very well controlled and a great introduction to the energy and humour Sophie was going to bring to the show as Maureen. Sophie showed a real connection with her playing partner Lynsey Campbell as Joanne Jefferson. Lyndsey brought strength, comedy and emotion into her characterisation and showcased flawless and impressive vocals with John in “Tango Maureen” and with Sophie in “Take Me or Leave Me”. Also, that high note in “Seasons of Love” … respect!!  Also, in that number I really enjoyed Abbie McLelland’s impressive solo sections. Calum Peter’s portrayal of Angel was authentic, genuine and something so different from other roles I have seen him in. He captured the gentle, charismatic and loving personality of Angel perfectly and in his energy in “Today 4 U” was great, especially when he jumped from the stage up onto the table and was carried on Collin’s shoulders all while singing … and in heels!! This number was vibrant, impressive and got the appreciation it deserved from the audience. Andrew Chapman brought a smooth and controlled personality to his portrayal of Tom Collins, flowing throughout his characterisation and beautiful vocals. He also showed true emotion and passion, with the scene covering Angel’s passing being very touching. Completing the principal line up was Jacob Bradshaw Barr, who did a great job at bringing Benjamin Coffin III to life, with some light comedic touches breaking up the sleazy corporate persona of the character. He balanced this well so that there was a warmth and connection to Benny for the reconciliation at the end.

The ensemble were excellent and really worked well together. Although small in numbers, they produced some impressive harmonies in their group singing, strong characterisation complimenting the scenes well and showed true commitment to delivering their own stories. I found the number “Support Group” especially moving, and I was tearing up looking round the stage at the individual performance. This commitment continued in the other company numbers including of course the iconic “Seasons of Love”. I especially enjoyed the phone call numbers and character work there, lots of humour from each one. Another highlight was the funeral tribute scene for Angel, which was very well done and the addition of him walking across the back platform during this with a subtle nod to acknowledge the other characters below, very effective. 

Congratulations to everyone at LMS. This was such a powerful, emotional, poignant and passionate production. The energy which flowed from the stage was tangible and let us leave with the feeling that there really is ‘No Day But Today’.

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