Review: Rent at Sydney Opera House

Review by Michelle Sutton 

Rent the musical has built a huge legacy and garnered a special place of reverence in musical theatre history. Since its debut in 1996, it has been celebrated for it’s honest portrayal of life and queer culture in New York, for it’s unabashedly tender and unflinching depiction of the AIDS crisis in the 1990s and for its modern rock musical stylings and blend of musical genres. When Jonathan Larson’s Rent came out in 1996, it had an immediate impact on the world. It is a story and collection of characters that are deeply loved and cherished by many people around the world of different ages and demographics. The book, lyrics and music of Rent were all written by Jonathan Larson, who adapted the opera La Bohème for a contemporary audience. Shaun Rennie directs the Opera Australia production of the iconic musical. 

The set design in the show is by Dann Barber and is innovative and beautiful to behold. There is a set piece that is cleverly constructed and raised during Over The Moon that sets the scene for La Vie Bohéme towards the end of the first act and is evocative and visually striking. Paul Jackson’s lighting design plays a key role in bringing the grit of New York to life, creating a sense of cold and seasons passing, and characters changing. Costume design by Ella Butler is effective in setting the sense of time and place, distinguishing between classes and characters and evoking the grunge, artistic, bohemian subculture. 

Henry Rollo anchors the show securely as protagonist Mark with a mischievous and endearing charm and a stunning voice. Kristin Paulse is electric on the stage as Mimi, with a unique and mesmerising vocal tone. Harry Targett plays the character of Roger with sensitivity. Jesse Dutlow dazzles as the scene-stealing Angel. Imani Williams impresses with her equally impressive acting ability and vocals as Joanne. Calista Nelmes was simply born to play Maureen. From her first moment on stage, she is a joy and delight to watch. Nelmes understands the role and presence of Maureen and embodies the character perfectly. Nelmes delivers a confident and accomplished and electric performance. The duet in Act II between Nelmes as Maureen and Williams as Joanne is a highlight, with both actresses equally matched in charisma, vocal ability and characterisation, culminating in a fireworks performance of belting and palpable chemistry. The ensemble artists are very accomplished with soaring vocals. The calibre of performance across the entire cast is extremely high, with many exciting artists emerging still at the beginnings of their musical theatre careers. 

Shaun Rennie’s strong directorial vision ties the whole production together into a visually stunning, impactful theatrical experience. Almost 30 years after its debut, Rent still tells a story that is empowering, confronting and ultimately hopeful. Rent celebrates the virtues of solidarity, community and friendship in the face of ruthlessness and capitalism. The message of the show rings just as true today as it did when it was first staged. Opera Australia’s production of rent is polished, entertaining and touching. It is sure to be an enjoyable night at the theatre for all audiences. 

Image Credit: Neil Bennett