BSA Presents: RENT

From the brilliant mind of Jonathan Larson came the tragic tale of Rent; a story about a group of bohemian artists struggling to make ends meet whilst battling both the emotional and physical challenges brought by the 1980s. Rent's initial opening night took place on January 26th 1996 - an event missed by Larson, as he unfortunately passed away just hours prior - and in the week of March 3rd, Bishops’ Stortford Arts took their turn bringing this beautiful and tear-jerking musical to life.

A group of Leventhorpe's Oliver! Cast went to watch the production, mainly to support their fellow thespians who adorned the stage in this production. Leventhorpe’s talent shone throughout the show in all aspects of the cast, including the leading man Mark - an aspiring film-maker who documents everyday struggles and triumphs, played brilliantly by Sid Martin (Bill Sikes – Oliver! and Shrek – Shrek the Musical Jr), and Maureen and Joanne - the troubled couple battling external pressure - played by Violet Hall (Bet – Oliver! and Scaramouche – We Will Rock You) and Summer Waite (Sister Mary Lazarus – Sister Act!). They gave an exceptional rendition of ‘Take Me or Leave Me’, showcasing incredible vocals and creating intense tension throughout.

Alongside these three spectacular performances came three more from Leventhorpe students; Maria Thira (Nancy – Oliver! And Sister Mary Patrick – Sister Act!), once again with amazing vocals, served up a fresh new take on Benny - the ex-bohemian strait-laced landlord who takes pity on Mark and his roommate Roger as they try and pursue their creative dreams. Then there was Rosalea Hall (soon to be Miss Hannigan – Annie) and Emily Wood (soon to be Cecelie – Annie) who gave us some stunning vocal solos and incredibly slick and smooth dance moves; they are certain to shine in Leventhorpe’s upcoming lower-school production!

Other notable mentions are James Knudsen (Roger), Ava Budd (Mimi) and ex-Leventhorpe student Aaron Bowden, who all gave fantastic performances.

It was definitely a change to see shows from the other side of the curtain; having performed in many school shows with these people, watching them shine on stage from a comfy seat in the audience was very welcome and very special to see. It's clear that Leventhorpe has some incredibly talented performers, and they gave us and many others a very enjoyable night at the theatre!