September 8, 2008

Rent Closes on Broadway After 12 Years

Broadway said farewell to the celebrated rock musical Rent, The Associated Press reports. The final show was dedicated to Jonathan Larson, who wrote the book, lyrics and music for this story of life in New York’s East Village, complete with artists, street drugs and AIDS (lead characters took AZT, one of the early HIV medications, onstage).

According to the article, the show grossed more than $280 million during its 12-year run on Broadway in addition to winning the Pulitzer Prize for drama. The show’s message resonated with audiences all over the world and was also translated into various languages.

“Rent speaks to people’s hearts,” said original cast member Gwen Stewart. “There is a universal truth that I think everyone can identity with: Living today to the fullest because you don’t know if tomorrow will be promised to you. Live. Love. Laugh. We have all gone through loss. Not necessarily AIDS-related, but everyone loses someone at some point.”

According to the AP, the legacy of Rent will continue. January will mark the beginning of a 30-week tour featuring members of the original cast. Sony Pictures has also filmed a high-definition video of the last performances that can be seen in U.S. and Canadian movie theaters, September 24, 25, 27 and 28.

Search: Rent, Broadway, Pulitzer Prize

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Previous Comments:

pozitivity, , 2008-09-12 10:19:31
Thanks for the change.

Floyd, Toronto, 2008-09-11 14:21:48
It was time-------

Richard, Fairhaven, MA, 2008-09-11 12:14:41
I think what is sad is the many poeple who could never afford food never mind a theatre ticket. There are bigger issues than the closing of a play.

pozitivity, , 2008-09-10 08:12:32
What about Jonathan Larson? This article doesn't even mention him. It was him who wrote this wonderful show.

Tom Faucett, Hollywood, FL, 2008-09-10 07:16:46
Hello, Thanks for covering the closing of RENT as it has been an amazing teaching tool to so many people over the 12 years. I am hopeful that the show will travel for many more years and reach so many others who have not been able to get to NYC or other large cities to see it. However, I believe you have the credit incorrectly given to Adam Kantor instead of to Jonathan Larson.

Chris, Los Angeles, 2008-09-10 00:10:52
I hate to see it go. It is as if I am losing a good friend and lover again after all these years. It took me 10 years before I could ever talk of my lose with out shedding many tears. My heart to all with love and support for have been effected by this horrible disease. Let's all unite together and continue to fight and survive this life changing event

Dave Martin, Austin, 2008-09-09 10:25:19
That's over 6,300,000 minutes. I've already marked my calendar for the tour's stint here in Austin.