By Kady Weddle
Avila University’s Theatre Department is presenting its spring musical RENT with performances on the Goppert Theatre main stage.
A rock musical with music, lyrics, and book by Jonathan Larson, RENT tells the story of a group of impoverished young artists struggling to survive and create a life in Lower Manhattan’s East Village in the thriving days of bohemian Alphabet City, under the shadow of HIV/AIDS.
On Broadway, RENT gained critical acclaim and won several awards, including the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the Tony Award for Best Musical. The Broadway production closed on September 7, 2008, after 12 years, making it one of the longest-running shows on Broadway.
“We’re really excited about it and can’t wait to have audiences come check it out,” said Matt Schwader Harbor, Director of Performance Studies. “RENT is a rock musical and I think everybody’s ready for spring and ready to rock.”
Avila’s rendition will be directed by Chioma Anyanwu with music direction by Dr. Amity Bryson and choreography by Hope Williams.
Tickets are available now for evening performances April 28, 29, and 30 at 7:30pm and May 1 at 2pm. Call the box office at 816-501-3699, email Box.Office@avila.com or visit their website for more information at www.avila.edu/avila-life/performing-arts/theatre/.