Rent at Hope Mill Theatre 2021

The Hope Mill production of RENT has been a long time in the making with tickets originally going on sale in 2019. Was it worth the wait? Simply put, yes. Luke Sheppard's version of RENT is hugely enthusiastic and given what we've endured the last 16 months highly relevant to today. 

The impact of AIDs is undeniably a focus of this story and it can be incredibly hard to bring jou to such a topic. The title of the play is obviously a subject and unfortunately still speaks to today as many have struggled to keep roofs above their heads. The direction and cast are absolutely perfect in representing this and doing it in a way that puts a smile on the face of the audience. . 

I can't fault a single member of the cast. It's not necessarily unusual to find a weak link within a production even among a smalli(ish) cast but that's not the case here. Even the members of the cast in the 'minor' roles absolutely shine. I am talking about the featured ensemble here who are always present and do a stellar job. 

Of course, we can't not talk about the main cast who are incredibly engaging and put total heart into every single song. Every song including your favourites such as Seasons of Love and Take me or Leave me pack the kind of punch and emotion you'd expect. 

One of these issues with RENT is that you very much have to pay attention. The story in itself is difficult to follow but the cast, direction and of course musical numbers overcome this difficulty. This shouldn't be taken as a criticism as I highly recommend this production. The Hope Mill Theatre has never failed to put on an excellent performance. 

We strongly encourage our readers to support RENT and Hope Mill as a whole. RENT is here until Sunday 19th September and we hope you all get to see this awesome production. 

Daniel Smith for Canal St Online

Tix via https://hopemilltheatre.co.uk/events/rent

Published: 12-Aug-2021 (6317)