By McKenzie Synal
Some may say I live under a rock, but this was my first time ever seeing Rent and it is a rollercoaster of a ride. Zeigfield Theater Company begin their productions in Ogden and then move to Park City at the Egyptian theater for a few weekends. The night I attended was sold out, so be sure to grab your tickets now as closing night is November 26th.
This production of Rent is masterfully Directed by Latoya Cameron and Assistant Director, Sammee Jackman, who genuinely focus on and deliver a diverse and inclusive piece about community and connection. The casting, setting, lighting, and production team each made unique decision’s that elevate the overall experience.
The actors begin on the stage interacting with each other: some arguing, some warming their hands around a steel barrel, while an individual plays music on a guitar. They invite the audience to become spectators for the evening and join them in East Village, New York. We are drawn in with the grunge setting, projections on either side as well as on the back center of the stage, and a minimal set- a couch, a two-story fire escape, and some props. Sounds of a bus, city traffic and a guitarist enthrall our senses and bring a cacophony of noise of the modern city thanks to Rebecca Knowles. The live musicians begin and remain on stage under the two-story for the duration of the performance. Band members are: Sharon Datuin, Alek Burden, Cooper Lavellee, and Owen Sidwell. They are an equal match for the beautiful melodies, reoccurring harmonies, and strong power ballads showcased throughout Rent.
The stage and Egyptian Theater are smaller and provide an intimate setting. Rent utilizes the entire space and audience members should stay seated as the aisles are used extensively throughout. Scene changes are minimal and location changes are mostly communicated through expert and intricate Light Design by Austin Stephenson and byLighting Tech Ryleigh Thorne. For a first-time viewer with no experience with the story of Rent this choice is initially confusing, but makes for a seamless transition and allows the lyrics and dialogue to communicate the different seasons and locations. Rent challenges traditional theater by showcasing homelessness, drug additions, erotic dancers, queer relationships, bohemian lifestyles, and an open discussion of AIDS/HIV. It ultimately calls each person to live every day to the fullest.
Excellent costuming is done by Morgan Parry’s whose costumes bring the show to life and engage us in the reality occurring on stage. Instead of being distracting or unnoticeable, the costumes really add to each character and fit everyone well. My favorite costume is Angel’s, which is perfect for their character and communicates the joy and fun that she is meant to embody. During group numbers the costumes support each character’s identity, specifically one members striped shirt, which is perfect for the era. A fun sparkly shirt with a bright yellow skirt is an energetic ensemble member’s outfit during “La Vie Bohme”.
The “Voicemail” numbers, which occur periodically in both acts are quirky and give the supporting characters a chance to shine. I particularly enjoyed Danielle Tenerelli as Mrs. Cohen. Seeing the characters on stage as they leave the voicemail shows us more about each character and provides humorous moments as they interact with each other and the leads.
During “One Song Glory” Diego Rodriguez as Rogers dominates and is set off with multicolored pink, orange, blue, purple and teal lights as he lets us into his mind with powerful, emotional storytelling. He shows his vulnerable side during “Will I?” and is one of my favorite characters. I appreciate his character arc and his acting is versatile. He is set off well with roommate Nick Morris as Mark. Morris does a great job with his interactions with the other character’s and showcasing the history behind each relationship. As a filmmaker he highlights and sets the stage for us and gives us a lens to view the world.
Jesus Gomez-Villalobos as Angel, steals the stage during his solos in “Today For You B” and “I’ll Cover You”. The Choreography by Sammee Jackman in this number and “Tango Maureen” are some of my favorites. Jackman knew when to use lack of motion to direct the audiences eye and the timing with freezing during pivotal moments is fantastic. Cast members froze in all different positions and it is clear their characters are considered individually in the poses set.
Noelani Brown as Joann and Morris (Mark) have great chemistry during “Tango Maureen” and throughout the performance. Another notable relationship is of course Brown (Joann) and Marie Howell as Maureen. They are enviable in “Take Me or Leave Me” and leave all of us wanting more. Howell on her own is an evocative performance artist in “Over the Moon” and “La Vie Boheme”. Her voice is amazing and her character is brought to the larger-than-life status that Maureen needs.
During “Support Group”, “Another Day”, and “Seasons of Love” many cast members stand out, specifically Maxx Teuscher as Squeegee Man/ Mr. Grey/ Roger Understudy for his strong voice and character choices as well as Vincent Nguyen as Paul/ Mr. Jefferson/ Collins Understudy. His facial expressions and reactions to what is happening in the scene are impressive. Two other actors of note are Britton Auman as Steve/The Man for mainstreaming the use of ASL and Seung Choi as Steve’s Interpreter/Voice of The Man for voicing that character. They blended together seamlessly and are met with resounding applause. The harmonies throughout these song are hauntingly beautiful and the repeating lyrics will be stuck in your head for days.
“The opposite of war isn’t peace, it’s creation” is a line in Rent, is used in the director’s note and is the line I copied down while watching. This cast has truly created something thought provoking. They interact so well together and the unity and love they feel for each other is powerful.
This show is for mature audiences, the website recommends 16+as it contains adult themes and language.
Ziegfeld Theater Company presents Rent Book, Music & Lyrics by Jonathan Larson.
Preforming at the Egyptian Theatre, 328 Main Street, Park City, Utah, 84060
November 23, 25, and 26, 2022 at 8:00 PM
Tickets: Tickets range from $23 – $45 depending on seating and date
Contact (Box office in Park City): 855.745.SHOWboxoffice@parkcityshows.com
Egyptian Theatre Company Website
Rent Promotional Video
Egyptian Theater Facebook page
Ziegfeld Theater Company Facebook page
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