Rent

Jonathan Larson‘s
Rent

Reynolds Industries Theatre
Durham, NC

April 2023

Directed by Chauntee’ Schuler Irving
Choreography by Courtney Liu
Music Direction by Jayce Mulligan
Scenic Design by Josafath Reynoso
Assistant Scenic Designer: Alex Rockey
Costume Design by Erin M. West
Lighting Design by Bill Webb
Sound Design by Brooks Frederickson
Stage Manager: Harper de Andrade

Produced by Duke University Department of Theatre

Photo Credit: Les Todd

Jonathan Larson’s “Rent” is a contemporary rock musical that reimagines Puccini’s opera “La Bohème” in the gritty backdrop of New York City’s East Village during the 1990s. The story revolves around a diverse group of friends grappling with issues such as love, identity, and the AIDS epidemic. Mark, an aspiring filmmaker, documents the lives of his bohemian circle, including his roommate Roger, a struggling musician; Mimi, a vivacious dancer; Maureen, a performance artist; and her lawyer girlfriend Joanne. The characters confront poverty, addiction, and the looming specter of illness while navigating the challenges of artistic expression and maintaining meaningful connections. With its dynamic score and socially relevant themes, “Rent” has become a cultural touchstone, capturing the spirit of a generation dealing with both personal and societal upheavals.