Musical phenomenon 'RENT' to hit the LTCC Duke Theatre stage

The Lake Tahoe Community College Theatre Arts Department is excited to present the Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon, “RENT,” with book, music and lyrics by Jonathan Larson.

Performances are June 14, 15, 20, 21, 22 at 8:00 p.m., with Sunday matinees on June 16 and 23 at 2:00 p.m. Set in New York City’s East Village, "RENT" follows the lives of a group of impoverished young artists and musicians as they struggle to survive and create in Manhattan’s Lower East Side during the thriving days of Bohemian Alphabet City, and under the shadow of the AIDS epidemic.

With breathtaking music ranging from pulsating rock to gospel style ballads, "RENT" is a pop culture phenomenon about love, friendship, finding your voice, and living for today.

“We have a remarkable cast for this production,” says Susan Boulanger, LTCC’s Director of Theatre. “Not only are they talented, but their connection to the material takes the show to an incredible level.”

“RENT” opened off-Broadway at the New York City Workshop in January 1996. Tragically, the show’s creator, Jonathan Larson, died suddenly the night before the show’s premiere. “This show is so much about love, life, and living for today, that Jonathan’s sudden passing is inextricably connected to the show,” says Boulanger. “It is a tragic irony that drives home the themes of the story in a very powerful way.”

“RENT” made its Broadway debut on April 29, 1996 and the standing ovations never stopped. The acclaimed musical went on to win every major Best Musical award, including the Tony Award, as well as the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. “RENT” is the seventh longest running show in Broadway history. Over the course of its groundbreaking 12-year New York run, RENT transformed the definition of musical theater – and changed Broadway forever.

Tickets for “RENT” are $15.00 for general admission, $12.00 for seniors, groups of eight or more, students with a valid student I.D. and children under 13. Tickets may be purchased in advance at LTCC’s Bookstore Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., and Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. starting June 3. The Box Office will be open for ticket sales one hour prior to performances. Seating is limited, so advanced ticket purchases are recommended.

This show is for mature audiences only and not recommended for children under 18. For information, please call (530) 541-4660, ext. 207.