Rent, the Musical - How Nontraditional Can You Get?

Growing up in a musically talented family, I lacked the ability to contribute any worthwhile and delicate to the ear. Not being musically inclined didn't mean I didn't enjoy good music.

I've seen all the musicals performed over the years, from Oklahoma to Cats. Taking a few years off, actually quite a few, I purchased a ticket to see "Rent" for a friend and I to celebrate her birthday. I was excited about the experience, but unsure as what to expect.

I had heard quite a bit about "Rent," new and cutting edge- but to be honest I didn't know much about it, other than it had is share of controversy.

It was amazing to be back at the theater, and I wasn't disappointed at the show! It's a new, modern-age musical about social and economic controversies such as AIDS, gays and lesbians and tenants who cannot afford to pay their rent. I was incredibly impressed with the upbeat music, and the "no holds barred" approach. There were a couple of scenes in the musical that I felt were a little on the "corny" side, however overall I was impressed enough to buy the soundtrack as well as he movie, as just recently released.

The story line focuses around Mark and Roger, who share an apartment in Alphabet City, New York. Their landlord, Benny, wants to evict them for non-payment of rent. Mimi, a drug addict, stripper, who is also a tenant in the building, falls in love with Roger, but has a quick, brief affair with Benny. Enter Angel, a cross-dresser with AIDS, who falls in love with new beau, Collins. And who can forget Maureen, Mark's ex-girlfriend, and her new love, Joanne, who is an attorney. It goes through the story lines and struggles of each individual and as a collective group, fighting AIDS, cheating girlfriends, and an economically poor group.

The music is upbeat, as well as sad. It portrays well with the scenes in which it was intended for. It is certainly original, and I have to give kudos to Jonathan Larson who created this. Unfortunately he passed away the night before it's big premiere.

Without giving away what happens, I would have to recommend Rent, as a must see- even if you are not fond of musicals. As an "untraditional" musical, it's definitely worth taking a look at, and judging for yourself. It might be something to preview though, before you decide on taking children to see it!