Small theater shows big play

Since the early ‘90s, Rent, the musical written by Jonathan Larson, has dazzled audiences with its bohemian attitude and rock-and-roll-based soundtrack.

The story centers around a group of artists living in an abandoned warehouse and struggling to pay their rent. The plot is themed with love, disease, friendship, and the fight to stay alive in a world where art is under appreciated.

The Zach Scott Theater in Austin has undergone a major undertaking staging this well-known Broadway hit and has absolutely succeeded.

Unlike the grand scale of most Broadway shows, the intimate theater setup has brought the cast closer to the audience, letting the audience feel as if they are a part of the action.

The set, which is usually pretty elaborate in the larger productions, is much smaller in scale, but not lacking in character. Where normally you wouldn't see the guts of backstage in any other show, in this production, the mass of wires and stage equipment actually helps to more accurately paint the scene of industrialism where the artists live.

The vocal performances are on par with any Broadway musical. The cast is comprised of Zach Scott regulars (Andrew Cannata and Eva Alonzo), local actors, and even some local musicians (John Pointer, Ginger Leigh, and Karma Stewart). The talent is fantastic and the acting will tug at your heartstrings.

All in all, this is a wonderful rendition of a story which has been on Broadway for over a decade. Even though it is on a much smaller scale, the story's integrity remains and is enhanced in one of Austin's most well known theaters.

The show will continue to run until November 28.