Rent

Choreographer: Joel Montegue

Rent is such a risk for any production team. Controversial topics; sex and sexuality, AIDS and drugs ... A story, that if done right, is extremely powerful and highly emotive. Music that is so fast paced but tells the story predominantly through the lyrics and where impeccable timing is needed. To find a cast of performers with the ability to portray each character and their particular story within the production, is yet another challenge. My first visit to Curtain Call productions and they exceeded all my expectations.  They took this script and the powerful story it tells, and performed it so beautifully with a principal line up, each worthy of any West End Stage as far as I'm concerned.  Joel Montegue not only directed and choreographed the production but he also played Roger, a character who's life has been turned upside down with sickness and grief. Joel portrayed this character with superb acting and vocals and must have been a great source of inspiration for the rest of the cast. Mimi played by Jess Mullock was sassy and sexy and told us her story of drug addiction and life living with Aids. Matt O'Donnell played film maker Mark and with superb vocals he was the perfect choice for this part. Mike Bradley once again graced us with his talent and delivered an outstanding performance as Collins. The relationship we saw between him and Angel played by Joel Harper was just beautiful. They threw themselves into these characters and made them real people, real lovers. They showed talent that was inspiring. "I'll cover You" in act two was beautifully done; I had to hold my breath to stop me sobbing out loud. I was completely moved.  Jo Butterworth as Joanne had a mighty fine set of lungs on her and impressed everyone with her top notes in 'Seasons of Love' which sounded amazing. Then in comes Yzzy Pierce- Higham as Maureen who was just outstanding and had me mesmerised ever time time she was on stage. Amazing.  Congratulations to Malcolm Forbes-Peckham, the band sounded absolutely bang on; It was well paced, well balanced and the harmonies were impeccable from everyone. The set together with the lighting was excellent and the split levels worked so well. I loved that every member of the cast looked so comfortable where ever they were, whether they were dancing, jumping or climbing from one level to another, it looked great. It was a shame that there was one to two glitches with the sound, but if thats the only negative I can pick up on, then rest assured, you've done a pretty sterling job. I left the theatre with the highest amount of respect for telling this story so carefully with such grace and respect  You really touched me with your performance and made so much of an impact that i don't think ill ever forget it. I am certain I wasn't the only person in the audience who felt this way. Thank you.

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