RENT, which redefined musical theatre following its 1996 Broadway debut, tells the unforgettable story of a chosen family of young artists and musicians navigating life, love, loss, and creativity in New York City’s East Village during the height of the AIDS crisis. With its electrifying rock score, featuring beloved anthems like “Seasons of Love” and “I’ll Cover You,” the musical remains a powerful, life-affirming celebration of resilience, hope, and living authentically.
This new Arden production, co-directed by Terrence J. Nolen and Steve Pacek, promises to capture the raw energy and emotional heart of Larson's work. Pacek, reflecting on the show's impact, shared, “Ever since sleeping on 41st St overnight in the winter to get a $20 student rush ticket to the original Broadway production... I've been compelled to defy the 'norm,' push the boundaries... and embrace a bit more of a rockstar mentality... I'm hoping audiences get a number of things: when we raise our voices together... we can be heard and make change happen; to love and to spread love is an act of rebellion... the opposite of war isn't peace, it's creation.”
Even as the characters face poverty, illness, addiction, and discrimination, they find strength in their dreams and in each other, discovering the true meaning of friendship, community, and love.
Tickets start at $65 and are available now. For potential $25 discount tickets and more information, visit: [ardentheatre dot org/rent-discount] (Please verify availability of discount on the official Arden Theatre website). General ticket information can be found at ardentheatre.org or by calling 215.922.1122.
