Culture

No more "Rent"

by Tina Kells | September 8, 2008 at 02:02 pm | 237 views | 2 comments | 7 recommendations

RENT 2007 Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp subway ad

After 12 years and more than 5,000 performances, the Puccini inspired Broadway hit Rent has played its final show. Based on the Puccini opera La Boheme, Rent has been thrilling audiences since it first ran off-Broadway in 1994.

Rent, born off-Broadway, is a tale of tragedy and triumph.

"Like we did when we opened, we dedicate this performance to Jonathan Larson," said actor Adam Kantor, referring to the playwright who wrote the show's book, music and lyrics.

Larson was 35 when he died of an aortic aneurysm after the show's final dress rehearsal in January 1996. He was not able to experience Rent's soaring success.

"I still can't believe Jonathan is dead … I feel bad that he isn't here to enjoy what he did," said Allan S. Gordon, one of the show's producers.

Rent closed with an electric version of one of its best-known songs, Seasons of Love, with members of the original company onstage with the current set of performers.

"There's mixed emotions, but it's time," noted Gordon.

During its 12 year Broadway run Rent grossed more than $280 million U.S. It has won multiple awards, gained broad critical acclaim, and even inspired a film version in 2005.

While the cast is leaving the Broadway stage behind, the final curtain has yet to be called. Rent begins touring in January 2009, and a high-definition version of the Broadway performance will be in movie theatres at the end of this month.