The streets of New York’s East Village are bustling with love, art, culture and spirit. Despite oppressive powers threatening to break friendships and crush dreams, this resilient group of friends celebrate the power of the human spirit, bringing people together to stand up for what they love. This is Rent. Jonathan Larson’s hit musical has dropped on Australian shores for a tour that’s sure to give audiences a taste of the show that took Broadway by storm.
Whether you’ve had the privilege of seeing Rent in the past or not, there’s a great chance you’re aware of iconic hits such as “Seasons of Love” or “Take Me or Leave Me“. The reason for that being Jonathan Larson’s music and lyrics are some of the best in the business – his songs have stood the test of time, reflecting the heart and soul he poured into his writing back in the early 90s. This production is musically and lyrically brilliant – every song is wonderfully written and performed, with stellar lyrics that ensure each musical number is as exciting or meaningful as the last. There’s also no shortage of songs to fall in love with, with both acts packed with memorable numbers performed exceptionally well by the band. They may remain largely unseen in the stage’s rear, but their impact is felt throughout the production.
The lyrics are one thing, but the singing performances blew me away – from the lead cast to the wider ensemble, there’s not a weak link in this crew. The soft and angelic voice of Martha Berhane (Mimi) elevates many musical numbers, especially when singing and performing opposite Jerrod Smith (Roger). Their chemistry is one of the show’s biggest successes, selling audiences on their characters’ situations by pouring plenty of heart into their performances. With Calista Nelmes playing Maureen, her rendition of “Over the Moon” is the surprise standout moment of the entire production. The range and power she showcases in her vocals is astounding, cementing her as the best vocal talent amongst the sea of talented singers in this cast. Later, the entire cast band together to deliver a heartwarming rendition of “Seasons of Love“, but it’s Hannah McInerney’s short but powerful verse that stands out above the rest.
As much as the music, lyrics and singing performances are exceptional, the narrative is where the production lacks impact, leaving me wanting more. While I was invested in one of the central relationships, the majority of the story failed to make an impression. There’s a lot of characters and a lot going on at all times, and the vague, messy nature of the storytelling just didn’t work. This vagueness leads to ambiguity and uncertainty in what’s going on, which can be quite frustrating. For instance, there’s a few songs that are musically brilliant, but the context of what they’re saying in terms of the story is lost in translation and not immediately evident. It creates this disappointing divide where the music is world-class, but the story is a mess of ideas and messages.
The narrative’s lack of impact could also be a factor of certain themes being lost to time, having not aged as well in the last 30 years. From the New York housing struggle to the prevalence of AIDS in the community, these things are synonymous with Rent, but not entirely applicable to today’s mainstream media landscape, especially here in Australia. It’s not that they’re non-existent, it’s that they aren’t areas that present much resonance with audiences. It’s a tricky one to adapt and update, but maybe it does need some of that.
Contrary to the narrative struggles, the electric and ecstatic energy of the performances do well to heighten the production’s overall fun. As Mark, an aspiring documentarian, Noah Mullins brings a loveable and infectious charm to his every scene. His upbeat demeanour and lively personality is one of the main drivers of laughs and good vibes, an essential element in balancing out the somber nature of the story. The energetic fun is also enhanced by the presence of Carl De Villa as Angel and Nick Afoa as Collins, two big personalities who light up the stage with their every appearance.
As far as set design is concerned, the recreation of New York’s East Village is solid, though there’s nothing that will particularly blow you away. There’s certainly room for a little more creativity, especially in differentiating some locations, but the existing sets of greys and browns matches the aesthetic of the area they’re reflecting.
If it’s a night at the theatre you’re after, Rent delivers. The story’s lack of impact may be disappointing, but don’t let that take away from the incredible music and lyrics penned by Jonathan Larson. Some musical numbers bring big laughs while others bring the tears, working in tandem to present a journey of highs and lows that’ll get a kick out of fans and newcomers alike. Accompanied by some impressive singing performances, there’s “no day but today” to witness Larson’s final contribution to musical theatre history.
THREE AND A HALF STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Rent is now playing at The Arts Centre’s State Theatre in Melbourne through to March 10th, 2024. The musical then heads to Newcastle from March 15th, Perth from May 11th and Canberra from June 7th. For more information and to purchase tickets, head HERE.
Reviewer attended on Tuesday February 20th, 2024
Photo credit: Pia Johnson
