Last night I saw the Pace University production of RENT, guest-directed by casting director Bob Cline.
A very strong student cast! The Roger (Noah Sucato), Maureen (Klara Keeley), and Benny (Mateo Lizcano) were among the best I've seen anywhere. The sound design is also excellent; never too loud, but you hear every word and the band never drowns out the singers; this is something most productions of the show struggle with, including the original, so the success was impressive here.
This production was far better than the version of the show I saw earlier this year at NYU Tisch. Pace has really emerged as the top musical theatre program in the city. Their theatre is under renovation, so they are doing it at the Tribeca Performing Arts Center at Borough of Manhattan Community College. It's a huge venue so there will be plenty of seats. More performances today and tomorrow; just show up. It's only $15. |
