Award-winning musical “Rent” to be performed

November 12, 2014 Melissa Kaczmarek

The Department of Theatre Arts at SUNY New Paltz proudly presents Jonathan Larson’s award-winning musical, “Rent,” from Nov. 13-15 & Nov. 20-22 at 8 p.m., and Nov. 16 & Nov. 23 at 2 p.m. in McKenna Theatre located on the New Paltz campus. The musical is directed by Jack Wade, chair and professor in the Department of Theatre Arts.

“Rent” tells the story of a group of young artists and musicians dealing with AIDS, gender identity, homosexuality, drug addiction and poverty as they struggle to make it in New York City’s Lower East Side. It is a story of hope, friendship and love that reminds us of the strength found even in moments of deep struggle.

“In the midst of the most difficult circumstances you can choose love, you can choose life, you can embrace community and, most importantly, you can choose kindness,” said Wade.

The musical is based extensively on Puccini’s La Boheme, incorporating musical themes, plot twists, and lyrics of the opera. Premiering in 1996, “Rent” won widespread acclaim, including the New York Drama Critics Circle Award, six Drama Desk Awards, three Obie Awards, four Tony Awards, and the Pulitzer Prize.

Musical direction for “Rent” is provided by Elizabeth Gerbi, assistant professor of musical theatre, and choreography by Joe Langworth, adjunct lecturer of dance and performance. The production staff includes student set designer Dana Weintraub ’16, student costume designer Amber Dutton ’14 and stage management by Jhanaë Bonnick ’14. Sound design is provided by Sun He Kil, assistant professor of sound, and lighting design is provided by guest designer Driscoll Otto.

Tickets are $20 for general reserved, $18 for seniors (62+), New Paltz faculty and staff, non-SUNY New Paltz students, and $10 for SUNY New Paltz students. The Box Office, located in Parker Theatre, is open Monday – Friday, from 11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.newpaltz.edu/theatre. For additional information call (845) 257- 3880 or email boxoffice@newpaltz.edu.