After last year's discontinuation of the popular Broadway production, Rent is back for a national tour featuring members of its original cast - performing this weekend right here in Philadelphia.
The tour began early this January in Cleveland, Ohio, and the production will run until Sunday at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp, stars of the original Broadway production and film adaptation, will be performing the roles they have made famous: Roger and Mark.
"I am so excited that Rent is back," exclaimed Engineering sophomore Cari Meisel. "The most amazing part is that the original cast is performing. I guess closing down in New York was natural, but I know all my friends want to see it again."
So far, the national tour has already received an "outstanding" response from markets across the board, according to General Manager John Corker.
"The critics have raved about the show and the audience response has been tremendous," he said. "Moreover, Philadelphia loves Rent."
Rent - which is in its 13th year of production - has always appealed to the younger generation. According to Corker, the musical generally attracts an audience from the age group 18-24.
"But again, once a Renthead, always a Renthead," he added. "So we do end up seeing people of all ages in the audience every night."
College sophomore Katie Lindberg also said she believes youngsters like her can relate to the theme of the musical.
Meisel added that what she loves most about Rent is the display of emotions through music.
And, according to Corker, the performance this weekend is the perfect treat for Broadway fans, especially those who may not have been able to see the show in New York.
