DM Playhouse Presents RENT, 7/13-8/5

The Des Moines Community Playhouse presents the award-winning Broadway musical, "Rent," July 13-Aug. 5. Tickets may be purchased online at dmplayhouse.com, by phone at 515-277-6261, and at The Playhouse ticket office, 831 42nd St.

Gritty Alphabet City in New York's East Village is the setting for Jonathan Larson's musical re-telling of "La Boheme." Drug use, disease, and lack of money for rent threaten the promise of young artists while they cling to the hope of falling in love, finding a voice, and making a statement. Winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, "Rent" is a pop culture phenomenon. From the freewheeling "Tango Maureen" to raucous "La Vie Boheme," from the haunting "Without You" to the anthem, "Seasons of Love," this now-legendary musical carries audiences from the depths of despair to the heights of hope.

The Playhouse cast of 16 features Jonathan Brugioni as Roger Davis, Zander Morales as Mark Cohen, Travis Wells as Tom Collins, Eric J. Shepard as Benjamin Coffin III, Jill S. Ziegler as JoAnne Jefferson, Jim Kolnik as Angel Dumott Schunard, Alexandra Beem as Mimi Marquez, and Claire Ottley as Maureen Johnson. "Rent" is directed and music directed by Jeremy Randall, with choreography by Alison Shafer.

Due to adult themes and controversial issues, "Rent" is recommended for ages 13 and over.

Several special promotions are planned in conjunction with "Rent."
* A limited number of front row tickets will be sold, day-of-show, for just $5.00. Those interested can sign up in the lower lobby beginning at 6:00 PM, Wednesday-Saturday, 12:30 PM Sunday. Names will be drawn, by "Rent" cast members, at 30 minutes prior to curtain.
* Audiences are encouraged to come to the theatre 45 minutes prior to curtain for a preshow talk with "Rent" artistic staff. Preshow talks are held in the upper lobby.
* After the show, on Friday and Saturday evenings, audiences are invited to stay for live music in the lobby featuring "Rent" cast members and other Playhouse performers. Drinks are available for sale.

The Playhouse is Iowa's oldest and largest producing theatre. Located at the 42nd Street exit of I-235, the theatre has presented a full season of shows since 1919 and also offers a wide variety of educational experiences including classes for ages 4 to adult, theatre trips to New York, and volunteer opportunities onstage and backstage.

For more information about The Playhouse and "Rent," contact The Playhouse ticket office at 515-277-6261.