The Idaho State University Week of Welcome production of the musical “RENT” debuted on Friday, Aug. 24, in the Beverly Bistline Theatre. Performances will also be held at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 31, and Saturday, Sept. 1. Admission is $10 for students with Bengal ID.
The musical centers around Mark Cohen, an amateur filmmaker, and his diverse group of friends living in New York City under the shadow of AIDS.
With music provided by a band integrated into the set and a paint-splattered stage, the show provides a grungy and contemporary feel.
“RENT” has a strong opening in the first major song “Rent.” The chorus performances throughout the production were spot-on and balanced, especially in the classic “Seasons of Love.”
Derek Gregerson gave an emotional performance of Roger Davis. The depth of his performance was highlighted in “One Song Glory,” Davis’ attempt to write a song to be remembered by before he dies of AIDS.
“All of the cast did really well, but I would have to say that [the performances of] Roger and [Tom] Collins stood out,” said sophomore Erica Dombrowski. “They both sang really well through out the performance and Collins got into character exceptionally well.”
While the chemistry between Mimi Marquez and Roger was palpable, the vocal blend between the two was hit-and-miss.
The strongest female vocal performance was that of Talia Lenker in the role of Maureen Johnson. Her powerful voice was only spotlighted for a short time in the show, but she definitely left an impression.
“The whole point of ‘RENT’ is simply to live,” said ISU senior and cast member Chris Cole. “It’s not saying to live a certain way, or that certain ways of living are better than others.”
Rogers song for Mimi, “Your Eyes,” was one of the most emotionally raw moments of the performance. The intimacy and unexpected joy of the scene brought the overall sentiment of the play together.
Cole played a supporting role as Steve, one of the homeless New Yorkers.
The ISU production of “RENT” delivered emotionally and musically, with just the right about of spandex and latex.
“One of the main themes [of “RENT”] is ‘no day but today.’ With all the awful things going on in this world, I think this is a bright spot for Pocatello,” said Cole.
