"Rent" Shouts Love at North Shore Music Theatre

There’s no day but today.

North Shore Music Theatre opens its stage to RENT, a rock musical by the late Jonathan Larson. Set in 1980s New York City, a group of struggling artists grapple with money, addiction, and the HIV/AIDS crisis. While experiencing turmoil, they never lose hope for love, passions, and themselves.

I have only seen RENT once at another theater, but seeing North Shore Music Theatre’s commendable and powerful performance made me love this show all the more. RENT amplifies relevant themes about finding your voice, embracing identity, and spreading love.

A cast of humble actors graces audiences with exceptional talents and authentic portrayals of the material. As I will continue to say, no small part exists in the theater. NSMT’s cast brings unity and fierce talents to the stage. They put the definition in ‘ensemble.’ Nobody ever upstages anyone.

At the center of the show is Mark Cohen (Aaron Alcaraz), an aspiring filmmaker, and his roommate, Roger Davis (Austin Turner), a brooding musician living with HIV. Both are searching for meaning while holding onto hope. Cohen and Davis each bring out vulnerable emotions in their performances.

Included in their friend circle is Tom Collins (Aaron Arnell Harrington), a philosopher who falls in love with the radiant drag queen, Angel Dumont Schunard (Robert Garcia). Collins' deep bass singing voice echoes throughout the stage, while Schunard bravely portrays his character with gratitude and power. Collins and Schunard created a sweet relationship.

Now for girl power, because RENT has a fierce, strong, and talented female ensemble. The moment Didi Romero struts onstage, she slays the role of the magnetic dancer, Mimi Marquez. She is a firecracker, doing hair flips and incredible dancing in “Out Tonight.” Mimi is a relentless woman, but has a soft, vulnerable shell that was portrayed magnificently by Marquez.

Add to that the fiery and sassy performances of Cate Hayman (Maureen) and Kat Rodriguez (Joanne Jefferson), who play the on-again-off-again girlfriends, and treat each other to a showdown in the epic “Take Me or Leave Me.”

The ensemble adds to the story, playing background characters or soloists. Natalya Fisher was hilarious as Roger’s mom, each time she left a voicemail for her son. Alana Cauthen sings a beautiful solo in “Seasons of Love.”

We need shows about friendship and positive relationships right now, and RENT defines the camaraderie, trust, and tolerance in the group’s dynamic. Throughout the show, their relationships or health are tested, but no matter what, they stick together.

No show goes on its feet alone without a technical team. The NSMT crew brightens the auditorium with vibrant lights, adorned around the stage. Despite the show’s dark layers, we can still find the light. NSMT’s round stage immerses audiences into the story with its design, costumes, and music. One scene is so powerful that I felt tears.

RENT is a rock opera. Each song bursts with life. Conducted by a live orchestra, songs include “One Song Glory,” “La Vie Boheme,” “I’ll Cover You,” and “Without You.” “Seasons of Love” is an audience favorite as the cast sings a powerful rendition.

Director Marcos Santana deserves praise for his vision, making every layer feel genuine. Santana’s choices highlight the relevance of the show’s themes today. NSMT’s RENT is a show that we need right now to brighten love in every corner of darkness. In difficult times, we are never alone. Live every day to the fullest and live without regrets.

RENT has many fans, and even if you don’t know the story, having North Shore Music Theatre introduce you makes the show a worthwhile experience. It plays until Sept. 28.