David Albino, from left, Matt Stoneking and Jordan Wylde rehearse a scene from Riverland’s presentation of “Rent,” which starts this weekend at Frank W. Bridges Theatre. -- Eric Johnson/photodesk@austindailyherald.com

Riverland Theatre to debut musical ‘Rent’ Friday

The Riverland Theater department is closing its season by debuting a modern classic in Austin.

The department begins a seven-night run of the musical “Rent” on April 20.

“It’ll make you laugh, it’ll make you cry and it is such an uplifting show that it’s always been one of my favorites,” director Lindsey Williams said.

This is the first time most of the cast, including Williams, has performed the show, because the rights only recently became available to community theaters and colleges.

“I think we’re going to be seeing a lot of productions coming over the next couple of years because so many people have been so excited to produce this show,” she said.

Many consider “Rent,” written by Jonathan Larson, a modern classic, and Williams isn’t holding back her excitement for what she calls one of her favorites.

“I love this show,” Williams said. “I’ve been a big fan of ‘Rent’ ever since it opened on Broadway in 1996.”

Williams raved about her cast, calling her performers some of the best singing talent in Austin.

“Rent,” Williams said, was a musical that changed broadway by bringing pop and rock music to the forefront.

That style may seem easy, but it hasn’t been a cakewalk for the performers. Williams described the rock and pop score as deceptively difficult. Though the music sounds simple, Williams said it’s difficult for the actors to sing that style without damaging their voices.

“It’s stretched them and pushed them to go beyond their comfort zone,” Williams said.

Now, Williams said they are ready to perform.

“Rent” will be performed at 7:30 p.m. on April 20, 21, 26, 27 and 28 and at 2 p.m. on April 22 and 29.

“I think this one’s going to be really special,” Williams said.

Tickets are $15 and are on sale at the Riverland box office, located in room E107 in the East Building of the Austin campus. Box office hours are 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday and one hour before performances.

Riverland students receive two free tickets to each performance with a valid student ID.  The box office can be contacted at 507-433-0595 or by emailing boxoffice@riverland.edu.