By: Amelia Valery

RENT is one of the most iconic musicals of all time, and it’s getting brought to the bricks here at Montevallo.

This rock musical takes place in Lower Manhattan of New York City following a group of struggling young artists who are trying to survive while looking at the underlying issues of HIV/AIDS.

The show will run in the Michael and Sue Meadows Black Box Theatre in the Center for the Arts. Shows start at 7:30 p.m. from April 19 to April 22, with matinees on April 22 and 23 at 2 p.m. The show’s run will finish the week after on April 25 and 26 at 7:30 p.m. 

It will be directed by UM Theatre professor, Dr. David Challaghan with Jennifer Hartsell as the music director.

Cast member, Stephen Haymond plays the narrator Mark Cohen in his second production at the theatre department and likes getting the chance to play outside the box.

“There’s really no other way to explain it other than to listen to it. It’s a beautiful crazy ode to art and what it means, with a lot of colorful thoughts and language,” Haymond says. “It’s shaping up to be a showstopper which I’m very excited about.”

RENT is breaking boundaries for all cast members, and Hannah Mallory is no exception. The sophomore theatre major takes on the role of Maureen Johnson.

“Although this role has been so incredibly fun to learn and live, she is probably the most challenging role I’ve had because of the sheer realness and originality of her personality,” Mallory says. “This show has given me the chance to live in her reality of inclusion, acceptance, and dynamic style.”

Having a large production with intricate sets would usually take place on the main stage, but this time, Dr. Challaghan is experimenting with taking it to the black box – making the audience feel more connected to the show.

“Rent in a black box seemed scary at first but with the audience and the playing space being so close in proximity it creates this raw emotion that you can physically feel,” Mallory says. “This show is unique and true to Montevallo fashion and I’m so incredibly excited to share it with everyone!”

Tickets are now available, click here to see select dates. UM students get a discounted rate of $10 with faculty pricing at $15, if you are looking for a general admission ticket it will be $20 with a senior discount of $15.