“(We) should reach out to each other and bond as a community, rather than hide from the terrors of life at the end of the millennium.”—Jonathan Larson
Jonathan Larson, the creator of “Rent,” cared very deeply about individuals and about creating community. Although Larson tended to be on the quiet side and was known to be “bookish,” he also had an innate ability to connect with other people. As a waiter at New York City’s Moondance Diner, he often entertained people with song and wit. He was also known to open his home to an ongoing stream of travelers, friends who were “between apartments,” and others. When one of his best friends was diagnosed with HIV, Larson began attending support group meetings with him. At these meetings, his sense of connectedness with others grew into a more defined interest in building a community.
This interest in community deeply influenced Larson’s story of “Rent,” and is something that continually interests and defines my choices for shows at MHS.
Tonight we invite you not only to enjoy the dynamic music, intriguing stories, and fascinating characters of “Rent,” but also to feel the love for this show that emanates from cast, crew and band and invites you, our audience, to share the experience. Whether you are part of the school community, the town of Montclair, or have just joined us for the evening, we invite you to be part of our “Rent” Family for tonight, for the run of our show, and forever.
Special thanks to the following talented and committed group of fellow professionals: Technical Director Ken Cleerdin, Set Designer Heather Ball, Costume Supervisor Christine Bennet, Lighting Designer Sam Gordon, Sound Designer Kevin Johnson, Choreographer Mary Blackburn, and Musical Director Ken Horn. A special thank you also to my three outstanding stage managers and the dedicated SVPA parents of this amazing cast of students.
--Brenda Pepper
