With book and lyrics written by Jonathan Larson, RENT is an imaginative retelling of the classic Giacomo Puccini opera, “ La Boheme ” set in the gritty Lower East Village of New York City.
RENT is the unforgettable and timeless story of a group of starving bohemian artists. Despite poverty and illness, they all learn to struggle with love and life, and survive during the rise of a mysterious, deadly disease known as AIDS. Eventually, all of them find their voices and bring a universal message of hope to everyone.
Some of the country’s talented theater artists will reprise their roles for this specific production of RENT (as previously staged by 9 Works Theatrical in February 2010), including singer / TV host Gian Magdangal as Roger Davis, the songwriter. Gian recently starred in the successful musical hit “The Wedding Singer”.
Also featured are Fredison Lo as Mark Cohen, the nerdy filmmaker; OJ Mariano as Tom Collins, the computer genius; Job Bautista as Angel Dummott Schunard, Collins’ drag queen street musician lover; and Jenny Villegas as Joanne Jefferson, Maureen’s public interest lawyer lover.
The rest of the ensemble is composed of Gary Junsay, Harold Cruz, Johann de la Fuente, Mark Tayag and Peachy Atilano.
A ‘must-see’ are the new members of the cast led by noted theater actor Lorenz Martinez, who will give a new twist to the character of Benjamin Coffin III, a former member of the group who, after marrying a wealthy woman, has since become their landlord and the opposite of the group’s Bohemian values.
Fresh from a stint with Universal Studios Singapore, Amparo Sietereales will alternate for the role of Mimi, Roger’s lover / bar girl – a role she originated during a previous production of RENT in Manila several years back. Sheree Bautista, TV personality/singer and Gian Magdangal’s real-life lady love will play the role of Mimi.
Newcomer Mian Dimacali bravely takes up the role of Maureen Johnson. Sab Jose and Pam Imperial also join as part of the ensemble.
The artistic team of RENT is led by Robbie Guevara, director; Ricky Villante, musical director – band; Onyl Torres, musical director – vocals; Mio Infante, scenographer; Martin Esteva, Lighting Designer; Chuck Ledesma, sound designer; Bek Soriano, costume stylist; and Francis Matheu for additional choreography.
The RENT production team is composed of the following: Santi Santamaria, executive producer; Anna Santamaria, company manager; Toff de Venecia, Marketing & PR Director and Production Manager; Paul Domine, Technical Director; Arma Bonilla, stage manager; Toots Tolentino, PR Consultant; Jonj Martin, PR Manager; Shelyn Tayanes, Marketing Manager; Campaigns & Grey, PR Agency.
Socially relevant, youthful, and moving, RENT lives on, along with the affirmation that there is “no day but today.” Viva La Vie Boheme!
CATCH “RENT, THE MUSICAL” AT POWER PLANT CINEMA (DEC. 8 – 12)
When In Manila, be sure to catch the live musical of this timeless tale of love. Watch RENT the musical and feel experience the story that has moved and changed lives! Be sure to see this very limited show with a very intimate crowd at the Power Plant Mall / Rockwell this December. The musical that changed Broadway forever: RENT the Musical! “NO DAY BUT TODAY!”
In celebration of Power Plant Cinema’s 10th Anniversary, RENT – a Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winning revolutionary rock musical will be presented for a limited run at Cinema 2 from December 8 -12, 2010 for a limited run of 8 performances at Power Plant Cinema 2 from December 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 (8PM), December 10 (330PM), 11 (4PM) & 12 (430PM).
