While driving to work this morning I heard on the news that Rent is going to close on June 1st. For some reason it caught me by surprise. I guess because every time we wanted to see a show we’d consider Rent for a moment and then choose something else, figuring Rent would always be there next time. Well, I guess it won’t be. I’m hopeful that we’ll find the time to see it before the curtain falls for the final time.
The music from Rent was a hugely important part of my senior year in college. My friend Justin and I listened to it constantly (or else it seems that way in my memory). We tried to see it in Boston in December 1997, but didn’t have any luck getting tickets. I also remember the Rent sound checks that following summer at the Dorset Theatre Festival and every time I hear “Out Tonight” I can’t help but think of one particular acting intern who I could not stand, walking up and down the theatre singing along. (If you were there, you know exactly who I’m talking about.) But it makes me laugh anyway.
Sad, but all things come to an end, don’t they?