Musical 'Rent' Returns for Its 10th Season with Fresh Cast and Timeless Themes

The musical 'Rent', which portrays the intense lives of young artists, is back for its 10th season. The production has introduced a fresh lineup of cast members, adding a new dynamic to the anniversary season.

On the afternoon of the 13th, the cast and crew of 'Rent' met with the press at the Coex Artium in Gangnam, Seoul. The event was attended by actors Lee Hae-jun, Yoo Hyun-seok, Yoo Tae-yang, Jin Tae-hwa, Yang Hee-jun, Kim Soo-ha, Solji, Jo Kwon, Hwang Soon-jong, Jang Ji-hoo, Hwang Geon-ha, Kim Ryeo-won, Kim Soo-yeon, Jung Da-hee, Lee Ah-reum-sol, and Koo Jun-mo.

'Rent' first premiered on Broadway in 1996 and is a modern adaptation of Puccini's opera 'La Bohème'. It depicts the struggles of artists living in New York's East Village, confronting societal taboos such as homosexuality, AIDS, and drug use, while delivering a message of empathy and solace that transcends generations.

Next year marks the 30th anniversary of 'Rent's Broadway debut. In South Korea, the musical was first introduced in 2000, and this year marks its 10th season. The current season features a mix of returning staff and actors from the past three seasons, along with many new faces selected through auditions. The production team promises, "This season will offer a fresh and moving experience."

Lee Hae-jun, who plays Roger, shared, "This time, the role of Roger is triple-cast, and all actors are new to the role. We've done extensive research to understand the character and sought advice from those who have played the role before."

Kim Soo-ha, who plays Mimi and won the Best Actress award at the Korean Musical Awards in 2020 for her role in 'Rent', expressed her thoughts on reprising the role. "I wondered if I should play Mimi again, thinking it might be better to leave it as a good memory. However, I decided to take it on, hoping this performance will be a turning point in my acting career," she said.

Lee Ah-reum-sol, who plays Joanne, shared that she prepared for her college entrance exams with 'Rent'. "Back then, 'Rent' was a work that made me feel the passion and spirit of youth. I thought, 'I hope to stand on that wonderful stage someday.' Now in my 30s, it's an honor to actually be able to do so," she reflected. She added, "'Rent' allows you to delve deeply into a character's narrative and inner self, capturing the intensity of life that I couldn't feel in my 20s."

Jung Da-hee, who is performing in 'Rent' for the third time, said, "I thought a lot about how to approach the role so that the audience doesn't think, 'Why is she back again?'" She added, "Next year, I'll be 38. My character doesn't age, but I do, which feels bittersweet. I decided to incorporate this feeling into the role, creating a new atmosphere for the character."

Jin Tae-hyun, who plays Mark, commented, "Even in bright scenes, each character feels a sense of loneliness. I hope the audience focuses on the stories of these lonely individuals."

What is the secret behind 'Rent's enduring popularity over the past decade? Kim Soo-ha explained, "Next year marks the 30th anniversary of 'Rent's Broadway premiere. The fact that it tells the stories of ordinary people is likely the reason for its long-lasting appeal." She added, "As you watch the show, you can feel the struggles, wounds, and anger of the youth. The process of each character learning from these experiences is captured in 'Rent'. My current struggles are also reflected in the show, and audiences with similar concerns may find answers in the performance."

Jo Kwon, who reprises his role as Angel, said, "With the accumulated narrative, our teamwork has become really strong. We've prepared diligently, united by the special love that 'Rent' offers."

Jung Da-yeon, TenAsia Reporter light@tenasia.co.kr