Theatre department presents “Rent”

Second semester calls for spring concerts, performances and the spring musical. This year’s production of “Rent,” student directed by grad student Tommy Wedge, will attempt to capture the attention of University of South Dakota students and look at what it really means to be an adult in the world.

The musical is set in New York City in the late ‘90s and focuses on controversial issues like poverty, HIV/AIDs, gender identity and gay rights. Originally directed by Jonathon Larson on Broadway, “Rent” focuses on a small group of people battling a range of these common themes, but are still living life to the best of their abilities.

“No Day But Today,” a song and overall mantra for this play stresses the importance of fighting life with its lyrics and also enjoying the little things in it.

“(This) rock musical is meant for adult audiences. It can relate to college students because of the real life situations that it portrays,” Wedge said.

Majoring in theatre and specializing in directing, Wedge is excited to see the final production of his final project.

Wedge first saw this production in Sioux Falls back in 2003, and said he has loved its music ever since.

According to Eric Hagen, chair and professor of theatre, preparation started as early as last March when the play was first selected, but the real preparation started this semester with production meetings, auditions and rehearsals.

“About 12 weeks of preparation, seeking to work out the details to have a final project,” Hagen said. “Many of these meetings held discussed the setting, and how to portray this play’s meaning to the best of their abilities. Although it may not seem like it, the background and preparation to produce such a musical takes a lot of effort and a great team.”

Emilie Borer, a senior majoring in theatre and specializing in design and technology, is the set manager for “Rent.” While the actors have the attention of the audience, she believes the setting makes the show real.

“It’s a really good way to create the world the actors are in,” Borer said. “The setting of the stage will consist of the same props, but lighting will determine which scene is taking place.”

The musical opens April 17 at 7:30 p.m., and runs through April 20, with a 2 p.m. show April 21. Student tickets are $5 with ID and tickets for adults are $15. Discounted rates are available for senior citizens, large groups and children.

Historically, this musical makes people laugh, smile and relate to the emotions portrayed in the show, and ultimately leaves the audience with a sense of uplifting thoughts of the life ahead of them.

Or as the line in the musical goes, there is “No Day But Today.”