Rent is playing a limited engagement at SCCC

NEWTON — Drama Geek Studios of Sparta has staged an electrifying production of the iconic musical Rent on July 24, 25 and 26 at Sussex County Community College in Newton. Aportion of the proceeds will be donated to Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.

The Tony Award- and Pulitzer Prize-winning rock opera follows a close-knit group of friends, lovers and artists struggling to survive and create in New York City at the end of the millennium. The original production opened off-Broadway in 1996 and moved to Broadway later the same year with a cast that included Idina Menzel, Adam Pascal, Taye Diggs, Daphne Rubin-Vega, Jesse L. Martin and Anthony Rapp. The musical ran until 2008 and is the 10th longest-running show in Broadway history.

“Having grown up during the time period when this show is set, during the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s and ‘90s, I have a strong connection to this musical,” said Joshua Reed, owner of Drama Geek Studios and the director of the nonprofit, community theater group's production of RENT. “Unfortunately, it was and is still sometimes the belief that this disease only affects people on the fringes of society, those ‘other people.’ However, this show is about a human crisis that affects us all. It focuses on the importance of love, friendship, faith and hope.”

“I haven’t had the opportunity to work with such a talented cast in a very long time. The show is visually stunning and sounds amazing,” added Reed’s wife Vicky, who plays Joanne in the musical. “OK, I’m biased, but it’s true. From the members of the live band to the ensemble players, the level of talent in this production is truly incredible. I hope that a lot of people have the opportunity to see it.”

“Rent has been an amazing experience. The hard work and talent that has gone into this show has been unreal, but the family that we have created is what tops it all,” said Raelyn Santiago, the Middletown, N.Y. actress who plays Mimi.

“I’m having the time of my life working with great talent, great musicians and great friends… and all while tackling the important social issues,” said Newton’s Debbie Gianuzzi, the show’s musical director.

Performances are scheduled for the next two weekends: Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are $25 at the door, but can be reserved in advance for $20 at Drama Geek Studios Presents Rent.