I admit to not being impressed when I found out the casting lineup. I know of Gian Madrigal and OJ Mariano because I've seen them both on T.V. But the rest of the ensemble are mostly newcomers except for Carla Guevara-Laforteza.
Then again, I thought it'd be nice to watch it again and this time with Rai.
I wasn't able to warn him that he'd have to brace himself of scenes where everything seems to be happening all at once. But... it comes with the Rent experience and he was able to get accustomed to them sooner than I expected. He thought that the musical had its light moments even with the serious plot of impoverished young artists and musicians struggling despite of being afflicted with AIDS. It was also a welcome treat for him to see a familiar face, Johann dela Fuente, whom he liked as Leaf Coneybear in last year's 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. *Honest Living! Honest Living!* I guess the same goes when he later realized that the person playing Maureen was also a part of the Spelling Bee.
As for me, there's really not much to nitpick on except for the cast. I confess to missing JM Rodriguez and wondering whatever happened to him soon as Frederick Lo (as Mark Cohen) appeared on stage. I, then tried to enjoy the show with its 2010 cast and what can I say? These newcomers aren't so bad. OJ Mariano as Collins and Job Bautista as Angel were so convincing being the gay couple. I was even moved to tears as he was performing I'll Cover You at near end of the play. Fred Lo is a cutie and has potential (I'll be watching out for him from now). With Gian's performance as Roger... well, I still wasn't impressed even after I saw him. Much to my dismay. The same goes for Nicole Asensio being Mimi. They didn't have the chemistry, too, as they weren't as believable compared with Collins and Angel. Oh well. At least Carla as Maureen was truly remarkable. She doesn't appear early on and just about right because soon as she stood on stage to perform Over the Moon, she already stole the show.
With all I've said so far, would I still recommend this rock musical? Well yes. I'm pretty sure these actors/actresses are improving in every performance. Besides, it's still a joy to see/hear Seasons of Love (and my other favorites: I Should Tell You and Light My Candle) being performed on stage.
As PEP.ph quotes:
This year's Rent may or may not hold a candle to the previous productions, but it still has all the verve that this beloved musical is known for. In our time, the material seems dated, but it never fails to spark a love for bohemianism in audiences, whether they are familiar with the culture of the late '80s or not. More than anything, the new production reminds us that the musical remains an ode to love that never diminishes in the face of disease, discontent, and despair.
Playdates: February 12 to 14, 19 to 21, and 26 to 28
Venue: Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Ayala Ave. corner. Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City
Ticket Prices: Orchestra Center - 1700, Orchestra Side - 1600, Loge Center - 1400, Loge Sides - 1100, Balcony - 800
