Before even seeing this show, audiences will know it comes with its own unique aura, as its tragic storyline was gazumped by the bigger tragedy of Larson's death just one day before first preview. Which means any viewing of the production feels like taking a shaky step into the dramatic opera it was based on.
The most important thing to know about Rent is it's often more art piece than musical.
While the show is linear, you'll notice how scenes don't simply lead one after another, they flow. The production feels in constant flux as characters swoop in and out of the story, injecting drama, chaos or social commentary (with varying degrees of light-handedness) before leaving in a flurry of movement.
The high-drama of the opera is still very much there, only wrapped up in layers of 90s grunge, sarcasm and a sense of despair from those left behind in America's era of techno-optimism. With the stage set in the round – where characters often sit on chairs and dip into the middle – it could have easily slipped into GCSE drama territory, but Larson's dialogue is simultaneously poetic and unpretentious enough to keep that at bay.
The cast is also key, Matarazzo is a treat as the central storyteller, often bringing humour and energy to lift us from one moment to the next. His own life often felt secondary to that of Roger's and yet that never affected the actor's presence on stage. His relationship with Danielle Fiamanya's Joanne in the song "Tango: Maureen" was the definite highlight – especially with the Strictly-worthy moves.
Ross was just as magnetic, often drawing the eye to wherever he stood, and his connection with Alexa Lopez's Mimi was crucial for keeping the story afloat – even in the most abstract moments their story felt like an anchor.
As a collective their timing and group-chemistry was tangible and again contributed to the show's electric feel, or perhaps that was the songs, which most musical theatre fans will know are top drawer. Aside from the infinitely popular Seasons of Love, La Vie Boheme is a perfect act one closer and What You Own was the ultimate 90s banger.
Don't go into this expecting a straightforward musical, it's messy, jam-packed, and sometimes hard to grasp onto. However, if you like a good beat, good staging and very good acting, you'll feel this show in your bones.
For more recommendations check out the Theatre section or listen to our new podcast In the Interval. Plus, our Jesus Christ Superstar review and Beetlejuice review. We also have events like the best kids theatre shows and best West End shows.
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