Sutton Arts Theatre – RENT
Sutton Arts Theatre
Wednesday 24th June 2026 – Dress Rehearsal
By Nigel Gambles
Photography –Studio 55 Photography
Some musicals entertain from the opening number, while others ask a little more of their audience. Rent, currently playing at Sutton Arts Theatre, is very much in the latter category. Loosely based on Puccini’s magnificent opera La Bohème, Jonathan Larson’s iconic rock musical explores themes of friendship, love, loss, addiction and the HIV/AIDS crisis, all wrapped within an energetic and emotionally charged score.
Having never seen Rent before, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. While I thoroughly enjoyed the production, I did find the storyline challenging to follow at times. Much of the narrative is driven through the songs, meaning audiences really do need to listen carefully to the lyrics to fully appreciate the unfolding story. Once you settle into its rhythm, however, the emotional depth of the characters begins to shine through.
Visually, the production is outstanding. Mark Nattrass’ industrial-inspired set perfectly captures the gritty atmosphere of New York’s East Village, while the costumes add authenticity and personality to every character. Combined with atmospheric lighting from Jack Tustin and Going Dark Theatrical, Sutton Arts Theatre has created a production that feels both intimate and surprisingly expansive.
Leading the cast, Dan McCloskey delivers a superb performance as filmmaker and narrator Mark Cohen. His commanding stage presence and powerful vocals provide the audience with a constant thread through the story, portraying Mark’s search for purpose and validation with conviction and sincerity.
Alongside him, Kit Oliver-Stevens impresses as struggling musician Roger Davis. Bringing both vulnerability and strength to the role, he convincingly portrays a man haunted by his past while desperately trying to complete the song that gives his life meaning. His vocals are assured and full of emotion.
One of the evening’s standout performances comes from Paul Atkins as Angel Dumott Schunard. Radiating warmth and charisma every time he stepped onto the stage, Atkins perfectly balances Angel’s flamboyant personality without ever slipping into caricature. It is a performance filled with heart, humour and compassion that resonates long after each scene.
Brooke Cooper, performing as Mimi Márquez, brings tremendous passion and conviction to the role. As the conflicted dancer battling addiction while searching for love and hope, her performance is both believable and deeply moving. Her vocals are beautifully delivered, carrying genuine emotion throughout.
Janine Henderson is equally impressive as Maureen Johnson, capturing the character’s fiery passion, confidence and uninhibited energy with complete assurance. Her stage presence lights up every scene she appears in.
The strength of this production, however, lies in its ensemble. Together they create a believable community of impoverished friends simply trying to survive, support one another and find hope despite the adversity surrounding them. Their commitment never falters and they bring tremendous energy to every musical number.
One moment, however, deserves special mention. Sammi Kelly-Griggs’ solo during “Seasons of Love” was simply breathtaking. It was one of those rare theatrical moments where the entire auditorium seemed captivated, delivering a performance that was nothing short of spectacular.
Musically, Josh Dibble and the live band provide an excellent soundtrack throughout, maintaining the show’s rock energy while never overpowering the performers. The balance between orchestra and cast allows the emotion of Larson’s score to shine.
Directors Emily Armstrong and Dexter Whitehead deserve enormous credit for bringing this ambitious production to the Sutton Arts stage. Rent is not an easy musical to stage or perform, yet they have assembled an exceptionally talented cast and creative team who deliver a production full of passion, honesty and heart.
Although the narrative may initially require audiences to concentrate, this is a production that rewards your attention with memorable performances, outstanding music and genuine emotional impact.
A bold, passionate and beautifully performed production that deserves to be seen.
Playing Thursday 25th June – Saturday 4th July (No Performance on 28,29,30 June )
For tickets 👉 Click the link https://suttonartstheatre.savoysystems.co.uk/SuttonArtsTheatre.dll/
