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Regional Reviews: Connecticut and the Berkshires Rent Also see Zander's review of Lucky Stiff and Fred's review of Metamorphoses
The energy onstage is electric and, because of the intimacy of Music Theatre of Connecticut, the actors, at times, will be performing right alongside you. Featuring a company who may not have been born when this musical first premiered, this Rent is aces; don't be surprised if you find yourself wiping away tears at certain moments during the show. The main roles of Roger and Mimi are played, respectively, by Jacob Heimer and Gabriela Gomez. Both actors give superlative performances. From Heimer's "One Song Glory" to "Your Eyes" at the conclusion, his every moment onstage is intensely felt. Likewise, Gomez lights up like a disco ball, tearing down the walls with an electrifying "Out Tonight," though she can also be extremely touching in "Without You" and "Goodbye Love" in the second half. In addition to Roger and Mimi, there is Mark, portrayed superbly by Joe Tolentino and, when he and Heimer sing the exciting "What You Own" together, they almost make you forget anyone else you have seen playing these roles. In the standout part of Maureen, Olivia Fenton is a real live wire onstage and she triumphs with the performance piece "Over the Moon" and then matches forces with the powerhouse LaDonna Burns, as Maureen's girlfriend Joanne, delivering a scorching "Take Me or Leave Me." I saw Burns do outstanding work in Ghost at Music Theatre of Connecticut previously and she is just as good here. Cedric Leiba Jr. makes a great and adorable Angel. As Angel's lover Tom Collins, Darrick Penny brings an enormous well of feelings to the reprise of "I'll Cover You," making this song more significant than I have ever seen in any other production of Rent. Rounding out the leading roles, Matt Mancuso is perfect casting as Benny, bringing his smarmy good looks and charm to this less than sympathetic character. On a fantastic, multi-level set, with three enormous windows on the back wall, the action is played out brilliantly. (Oddly, there is no scenic designer credit in the program, though Martin Marchitto is credited as "scenic consultant"). The costumes by the always reliable Diane Vanderkroef are reminiscent of those in the original production, though she brings her own unique flair to her work. Scott Borowka is responsible for the sensational lighting design, helping to frame specific scenes in different areas on the stage. David Wolfson is the fabulous music director and the onstage band really rocks out. It almost seems impossible that Rent premiered nearly thirty years ago, though its themes of love and acceptance and defiance still remain deeply relevant today. When this musical is done right, there are thrills and many surprises, and it is great to be able to say that the team of artists at Music Theatre of Connecticut come through magnificently. Even if you have seen more than a few productions of Rent, this one ranks as a must-see. Rent runs through October 12, 2025, at Music Theatre of Connecticut, 509 Westport Ave., Norwalk CT. For tickets and information, please visit www.musictheatreofct.com. |
