IU Department of Theatre and Drama prepares for RENT

For the cast and crew of Rent, rehearsals have not only become a space for practicing scenes, but also a space where they must confront some of life’s most painful challenges.

During the IU Department of Theatre and Drama’s first production of the 2010-11 season, sex, addiction, love and economic hardship are just a small sample of themes that audiences will see, starting with the opening performance at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 8.

Director George Pinney, who has been with the department for 23 years, has never put “Rent” on his list of musicals that he wanted to do. But after living through all the issues portrayed in the musical, the memories bring forth a different meaning.

“The personal stories and where people come from are so raw,” Pinney said.
One of the key struggles that touches the lives of several characters in the show is AIDS.

Angel, one of the main characters, is a gay drag queen who maintains a spirit of compassion and generosity despite his struggle with AIDS.

Cosmo Clemens, a junior studying musical theater, said since he was cast as the role of Angel, he has not only become a better performer, but also a better person.

“The characters have different struggles, but you learn from their mistakes,” Clemens said. “Whether you can relate to them or not, how they handle themselves is eye-opening.”

When the cast first began rehearsals, the members discussed how their emotional connection to the characters would prove to be a powerful experience.

“There will be parts where you cry, and it’s OK,” Clemens said of what Pinney told them during a rehearsal.

In addition to the original roles in the performance, IU’s production will feature the “nameless, faceless ensemble,” which will perform much like shadows on stage.

“The message they show is so much larger,” Pinney said. “They represent the
forgotten people.”

The new ensemble creates a backdrop that highlights the unique, yet relatable experiences of the main characters.

For senior Gina Ricci, playing the role of Mimi, an exotic dancer and heroin addict, has always been a childhood dream.

Ricci said Mimi is a character who experiences lots of ups and downs but still maintains an image of happiness.

“She’s on fire, and she loves her life,” Ricci said. “In the first act, she’s fun, gorgeous, playful and energetic. Everyone wants to be around her.”

Unlike Mimi, who jumps into things full throttle, Ricci finds herself to be more guarded.

Since being cast as Mimi, Ricci said her emotional connection with the character has deepened to the point where she has broken down and cried several times during rehearsals.

“I admire her character so much,” Ricci said. “Everything she does she puts her heart into. She knows what she wants and goes for it.”

Throughout the show, Mimi is constantly battling her need to be in a relationship, which Ricci said is a relatable issue for many girls on campus.

“These girls all put love into relationships, yet they deny their own problems,” Ricci said. “They never truly know themselves and love themselves.”

The importance of self-love and respect is a message that has penetrated the cast and crew, and according to Pinney, a message that has caught on in the department like wildfire.

While the characters are facing their own unique challenges, their connection brings forth several sobering sentiments.

“For me, the message is that above all else, love and friendship are the keys to success,” Ricci said. “Never block anyone out of your life, and live life in the present.”